In 2016 the honour to become New Year’s Capital of Russia’s North fell upon Vologda again. The New Year was celebrated in a special way, because every Russian city has its own traditions of celebrating. Vologda’s authorities planned a number of major festive actions and events not only in Vologda, but also in Veliky Ustyug, the hometown of Ded Moroz, Russia’s equivalent of Santa Claus.
From December 26, 2015 to January 10, 2016 large-scale New Year and Christmas celebrations took place in the city of Vologda and nearby tourist sites. Celebrating this wonderful holiday is one of the most heartwarming traditions. It is passed on from generation to generation, bringing people together.
The main celebrations were held on December 31, when Russia’s Ded Moroz arrived in Vologda. At night the celebrations wound up with lighting up the first Christmas tree at the Revolution Square and a unique light show in the heart of Vologda.
On the eve of the New Year celebrations, Vologda Oblast Governor Oleg Kuvshinnikov made his final speech addressing the residents of the region, remembering the main events of the year and talking of prospects for the coming year.