‘Winter in Russia is a Season of Romance and Cold, Solemnity and Vitality’
Over 450 international students from all over the globe currently study at the HSE Faculty of Economic Sciences. Some of them have recorded video greetings, talked about celebrations in their home countries, and shared their ideas on how to spend the winter holidays in Russia.
Lukas Ruf, Austria, Master’s in Strategic Corporate Finance
In Austria, we celebrate Christmas on the 24th of December. Much like Russia´s New Years celebrations, there is a calm and cosy mood, lots of food, and family time. In the evenings, there is church service called Christmette, which oftentimes includes local choirs and Glühwein afterwards. Many families have gatherings between 25th–27th of December, again with lots of food, presents, and relaxation. New Year, on the other hand, is mostly a big party. It’s usually celebrated with friends, lots of food, drinking, and having fun.
Russian winter can be harsh at times, but as long as you take the right clothes, it’s fine. I would recommend that new students get good gear for the cold: a big coat, a mask, good shoes
The number one thing you have to be careful about is slippery walkways. Always expect to fall down—you never know where the next slippery step is going to be. But overall, Russian winter can be absolutely stunning! Walking around the centre when everything is covered in snow is beautiful, and getting food at Red Square is a great activity I can recommend.
I will probably not follow any special traditions here. I might invite some friends to have a good time, watch the fireworks, etc. There is the tradition of lead-pouring, which we will probably do for fun, but it will mostly just be partying, playing games, eating good food, drinking good wine, enjoying life. And playing a traditional round of beer pong, to keep the competitive spirit alive!
Liu Xuanhan, People's Republic of China, Bachelor’s in Economics
In my eyes, the difference between Christmas and New Year in China and Russia is not very big. People say goodbye to the old year and express their expectations for the new Gregorian calendar year. For Chinese people, it is more of a prelude to Chinese New Year. But for Russian people, it is a grand holiday for getting together with family and making new wishes. New Year in Moscow is very interesting. Not only is there a New Year market on Red Square, but there is also a variety of lighting and unique activities. And there are also some activities in various parks. Everyone can actively participate and enjoy the unique Russian winter romance together.
Winter in Russia is a season when romance and cold, solemnity and vitality all coexist. It is actually not that difficult to deal with—I usually meet with friends and insist on exercising. My favourite winter sport is skiing. Unfortunately, my skiing skills are not very good...
The cold winter in Russia has left a deep impression on me, and it is a season that needs to be savoured carefully
I recommend that new international students try ice and snow sports, such as skating and skiing. Remember to keep warm, replenish calories, and take a vitamin D supplement.
During the New Year holidays, I want to go home, meet my family, and catch up with some of my old friends.
Chamod Ranaweera, Sri Lanka, Master’s in Strategic Corporate Finance
I think in both Sri Lanka and Russia, Christmas and New Year celebrations are marked by festive decorations, gatherings, and joy. However, there are cultural and religious differences in how these occasions are observed. In Sri Lanka, where Buddhism is predominant, Christmas is both a cultural event with decorations, lights, and festive meals, and a religious holiday with a focus on church service. New Year (Sinhala and Tamil New Year) is a significant cultural and religious celebration. In Russia, New Year is celebrated more widely, with both religious and secular traditions.
Russian New Year is marked by decorations, the arrival of Ded Moroz (Father Frost), and the exchange of gifts on New Year's Eve
Since this is my first winter experience, I am using various strategies to stay comfortable and healthy in the cold. These include wearing insulated and waterproof outer layers to protect against the cold and wet conditions, regularly drinking warm water, and using moisturisers and lip balms to protect my skin. You must ensure you have access to medical care, and consider getting a flu shot.
Moscow's winters can be unpredictable. You need to keep an eye on weather forecasts to plan your activities and dress accordingly. Moscow has a lot to offer during the winter months. I recommend that international students embrace the winter by trying activities like ice skating and attending winter festivals. I like to do ice skating, snowboarding, and cosy indoor activities like reading, watching movies, and sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace.
Watch the video greetings from the HSE Faculty of Economic Sciences students and staff:
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