Russia is a huge country; in fact, it is the largest in the world. It stretches 6.6 million sq. mi through 11 time zones. Each and every one of these time zones has its own events at certain times of the year and are far too numerous to mention.
This article will highlight a selection of events that may be of interest to tourists and which will fit into their itinerary. The list is by no means exhaustive but if you do want to experience the type of thing that Russian people enjoy and get away from the tourist traps, some of these events could be just what you’ve been looking for.
Although it is unlikely you will travel to Russia just for a specific event, unless you have a vested interest, you may be able to visit an event of interest if time allows. For example, you may have booked one of the exclusive Trans-Siberian railway tours and holidays that are available from specialist Russia destination experts and have a few days to spare either before you start your trip or at the end.
Selected Russian Events From October 2019 – December 2019
As previously mentioned, there are several other events running simultaneously in different parts of the country, the events listed below maybe of interest:
October 2019
- 1st October – Jose Carreras and the Moscow City Orchestra
1900 hours – The State Kremlin Palace, Moscow
- 10th October – Russia vs. Scotland, UEFA Euro Championships Qualifier
2145 – Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
November 2019
- 5th November – Scorpions, Live
VTB Arena, Moscow
- 14th-17th November 2019 – International Folklore Festival
St Petersburg – Venue to be confirmed
December 2019
- 1st December – December Nights Festival
Moscow – Venue to be confirmed
- 31st December – New Year’s Eve Russia
Red Square, Moscow (countrywide, check time zones)
As previously mentioned, there are literally thousands of events happening at any one time in Russia, the ones detailed above have an international flavour and are reasonably well-publicised, for local event information, you will need to speak to your tour operator who will be able to find out about any events of interest whilst you are in the locality.
Local Events
If you are very lucky, you may come across local events in Russian that do not need any publicity. Some of these local events involve music, dance, food and probably lots of alcohol! If you can hook up with a local guide this will make it much easier for you and you may even understand what the specific festival is all about. Each region of Russia, some of which have designated stops on the Trans Siberian railroad, each have their own patron saints and festivals which are specific to that area. This is the real Russia where you will meet regular people enjoying themselves, many of which will only be too happy to see a foreigner and encourage them to play a full part in any interactive proceedings.
If a Russian event or festival is something you think you may enjoy, be sure to do your research and mention it to your tour operator.
