Moscow, Russia — Events
Winter Festival
Celebrated over the Western Christmas and New Year period, the Russian Winter Festival combines different celebrations and holidays and is an opportunity for visitors to enjoy Russian customs and festivities, such as traditional folk music, troika (sleigh) rides and games, Russian food and lots of vodka. There are also musical and dance performances, and characters dressed as popular Russian mythological figures are there to greet the crowds. For more information contact the Russian Federation Tourism Department on +7 (8) 095 208 2937 or email tourdept@yandex.ru
Maslenitsa Festival
Annually in March, Moscow residents engage in a festival of last minute debauchery before the sober month of Lent sets in. Because dairy and eggs are not allowed during Lent, the most common indulgence is bliny (pancakes), leading to Maslenista also being referred to as Pancake week or Butter week. Over the years, the Russians have used the practice of eating pancakes and culture of general indulgence to celebrate Russian heritage. Celebrations in true Russian style include bare knuckle fist fights, bear performances, effigy burning and puppetry.
Fashion Week Moscow
Following in the vein of Fashion Week London, Pairs, Milan and New York, Fashion Week Moscow is a growing draw for fashionista the world over, with over fifty fashion houses showcasing their productions to nearly 100 000 guests bi-annually. The ethos on the Moscow event is to promote the fashion industry in Russia and has made big names of Igor Chapurin, Andrew Sharov and Tatiana Parfenova.
Millionaire Fair
Unless you’re a dollar millionaire, you’re not likely to make many purchases at this annual event but there’s a hefty dose of window shopping to be savoured by those so inclined& or to give you something to aspire to! Among the items sold and exhibited in the past were a golden coffeemaker worth EUR6,500; a million-dollar (US) phone encrusted in diamonds and several Bugatti cars costing EUR1,300,000 each.
