New Year’s Eve in Russia is one of the most widely celebrated holidays, marked by festive gatherings, grand feasts, and vibrant fireworks. For a truly unique experience, imagine ringing in the New Year on a Russian train—travelling through the vast, snow-covered landscapes while immersed in the warmth of Russian hospitality. Celebrating this special night aboard a train offers a blend of tradition, adventure, and the chance to see parts of Russia that few travelers ever experience. Here’s what it’s like to celebrate New Year’s Eve on a Russian train.
1. The Journey: Crossing Russia’s Vast Terrain
One of the most striking aspects of celebrating New Year’s Eve on a Russian train is the sheer scale of the journey. Russia is the largest country in the world, and train travel is one of the most iconic ways to experience its vastness. Depending on your route, you could be traveling through forests, across frozen rivers, and past snow-covered villages, all while the clock ticks down to midnight.
Key Routes for the Ultimate New Year’s Eve Train Experience:
- Trans-Siberian Railway: The most famous train journey in Russia, this iconic route stretches from Moscow to Vladivostok, passing through Siberian landscapes and remote villages. Imagine traveling across the snowy expanse of Siberia as the New Year approaches.
- Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express: For those seeking luxury, the Golden Eagle offers a comfortable and high-end experience. With private cabins, fine dining, and guided excursions, it’s the perfect way to experience Russia’s winter wonderland while ringing in the new year.
- The Red Arrow: A more traditional overnight train connecting Moscow to St. Petersburg, it provides a classic Russian train experience. You can enjoy New Year’s festivities in one of the most iconic trains, with the bonus of travelling through some of Russia’s most cultural cities.
2. Festive Atmosphere Aboard the Train
Celebrating New Year’s Eve on a Russian train is a truly festive affair. Whether you’re on a luxurious long-distance train like the Golden Eagle or a more rustic overnight sleeper train, the atmosphere will be filled with excitement and holiday cheer. The train staff often prepares special celebrations, transforming the carriages into a winter wonderland to mark the occasion.
What You Can Expect:
- Decorations and Themed Parties: Many trains, particularly those catering to tourists, decorate their cars with New Year’s ornaments, snowflakes, and festive lights. In some cases, the train staff hosts themed parties or gatherings, complete with a festive atmosphere, music, and traditional Russian decorations.
- Traditional Russian Celebrations: Russian New Year celebrations are filled with traditions. Expect to enjoy a festive meal with traditional dishes such as olivier salad, herring under a fur coat, and hearty stews. These meals are often accompanied by toasts of champagne or vodka, and Russian folk music may fill the air as passengers enjoy the evening.
- Russian Grandfather Frost (Ded Moroz): If you’re lucky, Ded Moroz (Father Frost) and his companion, Snegurochka (the Snow Maiden), might make a surprise visit on the train. This is part of the Russian tradition of New Year’s celebrations, bringing gifts and well wishes to travelers as they approach midnight.
3. Midnight Toast: Ringing in the New Year
When the clock strikes midnight, the entire train will join in a traditional toast to the New Year. Even though you’re on a moving train, the excitement in the air makes it feel like you’re at the center of a grand celebration. People may exchange wishes for good health, prosperity, and happiness in the coming year.
What Happens at Midnight:
- Champagne and Vodka: It’s customary in Russia to toast with champagne at midnight, followed by shots of vodka, which flows freely during this special occasion. Expect a joyful and spirited toast with fellow passengers, who might be celebrating with family, friends, or even strangers who quickly become friends.
- Fireworks: While you may miss the traditional fireworks display in the city, some trains with luxury packages offer a spectacular view of the holiday fireworks from the windows. As the train moves through Russia’s snowy wilderness, the night sky may light up with fireworks in the distance.
- Traditional Russian Music: Following the toast, the evening often continues with lively Russian folk songs, dances, and games. The train staff might also lead sing-alongs or help organize games, which is a fun way to get to know other passengers.
4. Russian New Year Traditions Onboard
In Russia, New Year’s Eve celebrations are steeped in customs that are both joyous and meaningful. Here are some of the most popular traditions that you might experience while celebrating on a train:
Key Traditions:
- Making a Wish: It’s a Russian custom to write down a wish on a piece of paper, burn it, and then drink it in a glass of champagne right after midnight. Many trains offer small cards or papers for passengers to write their wishes on.
- The New Year’s Tree (Ёлка): Just like Christmas trees, New Year’s trees are a central part of the celebration in Russia. The train may have a festive tree with lights and decorations where passengers can gather for photos.
- New Year’s Resolutions: New Year’s is a time to reflect on the year past and set intentions for the year ahead. On a Russian train, passengers may share their resolutions over a toast, offering insight into how they plan to make the new year better.
5. New Year’s Day: Enjoying the Scenery and Relaxation
After a lively and unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration, New Year’s Day on a Russian train is often a quieter, more relaxed experience. Most passengers will sleep in late, recovering from the night’s festivities, and then enjoy the scenery from their cabin window.
Things to Expect on New Year’s Day:
- Scenic Views: Whether you’re traveling through the Russian countryside or along Siberian tracks, the winter landscapes are picturesque. Snow-covered trees, frozen rivers, and vast, empty expanses create a serene and beautiful setting as you slowly make your way to your destination.
- Relaxing and Resting: The festive atmosphere may mellow down the day after, but it’s an excellent time to unwind in the comfort of your compartment, chat with fellow travelers, or even enjoy some more food and drinks if you feel like it. Some trains offer spa services, allowing passengers to relax and rejuvenate after the excitement of the night before.
- Sightseeing Stops: If your journey involves stops at cities like St. Petersburg or Moscow, you may have the chance to explore these iconic locations on New Year’s Day, seeing them in their holiday splendor with fewer crowds.
6. Practical Tips for Celebrating New Year’s Eve on a Russian Train
- Book in Advance: Russian trains, especially long-distance ones like the Trans-Siberian Railway, can be very busy during the New Year period. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance.
- Pack Warm Clothes: Although the train will be heated, Russia’s winter temperatures can be extremely cold. Be sure to pack plenty of layers to stay comfortable while traveling through snow-covered landscapes.
- Bring Small Gifts: If you’re traveling with a group or have the opportunity to join in traditional Russian New Year customs, it’s nice to bring small gifts for fellow passengers or the train staff, as is common in Russian New Year traditions.
Conclusion: A Truly Unique Celebration
Celebrating New Year’s Eve on a Russian train is an experience like no other. It’s a magical blend of travel, tradition, and celebration. From the excitement of traveling through the Russian wilderness to the warmth of Russian hospitality and festive traditions, ringing in the New Year on a train creates memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re crossing Siberia or simply traveling between two cities, this once-in-a-lifetime experience combines adventure, culture, and holiday joy in one unforgettable journey.
