Russian Culture

Unique Crafts & Shopping

Blame it on the cold weather—Russia is not big on outdoor shopping. This makes Russia’s myriad shopping malls fun places to be. Outdoor markets make an appearance during the holidays, where you can buy a wide range of goods for lower prices. These markets are lucrative, but smaller shops are also where you will get a concentrated dose of Russian culture. Soviet art and crafts are represented in miniature paintings and jewelry boxes, while the myriad tastes of the country meet travelers in giftable forms.

When in Moscow, pay a visit to the stimulating Vernisaj flea market, remodeled after Old Russia with an authentic feel. This is the best spot to enjoy a bargaining experience on top of a variety of unique items such as handpainted Russian lacquer boxes and matryoshkas, the iconic Russian nested doll. St Petersburg’s crafts scene is even better for the more culturally inclined. Artisan shops offer the best antique and handcrafted items in the meandering alleys of this fairytale city. The best ones to buy are authentic Russian porcelain pieces, jewelry made of Baltic amber, and of course, a glimmering bottle of Tsar’s vodka. In the countryside towns like Suzdal and Vladimir, the best thing to do is to avoid the tourist souvenir shops and look for mead and ceramic workshops.

Faberge eggs decorated with quintessentially Russian patterns, Gzhel ceramics, vodka, and delicate shawls… These are the items that you won’t find anywhere else. So take your time in the crafts shops and choose the best memorable goods to take home. Meanwhile, local artists and shop owners will tell you about the history of these valuable traditions.

Festivals & Events

“Russian festivals cut the cold of the country like a knife, bringing together people in vibrant celebrations and cultural spectacles.”

Russia’s most special events celebrate folklore, the winter season, and religious days with boundless joy. Russian Orthodox holidays constitute a major part of the yearly calendar, while older religious traditions are celebrated in the countryside. Come in the winter season, and you will find yourself in the middle of a plethora of holiday events all throughout the country. From December to January, the Russian Winter Festival opens its doors to locals and travelers. Lights and jovial decorations adorn the sky, and the most iconic locations in Russia host magnificent spectacles. Gorky Park is perfect for capturing amazing shots, while Revolution Square hosts handcraft shops and stalls.

The Russian New Year may prove to be the most exhilarating. Listen to the stories of Father Frost and Snow Maiden, two iconic Christmas figures in Russian folklore, and decorate New Year’s Eve trees in the squares. Pay a visit to Red Square for a ride on the ice rink. Wherever you go joyful concerts, carnivals, and street fairs will keep you company. But, Russia’s main festival scene is not all about winter. In late spring, the world-famous White Nights Festival take over the majestic St Petersburg. Seeing the sun in the horizon until midnight will be the most epic experience of your visit. The demonstrations that come with is the icing on the cake.

If your trip doesn’t coincide with any of these special events, don’t worry. Some of Russia’s annual festivals last throughout the year, such as the International Theatre Festival. You will also find unforgettable events reflecting Russian culture in the big cities like Moscow and St Petersburg.