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How to celebrate the new year in Estonia. New Year in Tallinn

If you are tired of the traditional feast in front of the TV on New Year's Eve, and you want to experience new sensations from the most fun holiday of the year, we suggest you make an exciting journey through the Baltics. More precisely, go to Estonia, to its magnificent capital - ancient Tallinn.

This is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It was founded in 1154, and many of the unique buildings of those times have survived to this day. New Year in Tallinn is a huge number of decorated Christmas trees, twinkling garlands and candles burning in every window.

Weather in Tallinn for the New Year

With the approach, the city is transformed beyond recognition. Estonians love holidays. If you are going to celebrate the New Year in Tallinn, then, of course, you are interested in the weather in the city at this time.

The length of daylight hours in December is about six hours, while the weather is quite warm. The temperature rarely drops below two degrees below zero. During the day it stays at +2 degrees. The good news is that rain this month is a very rare occurrence. The weather is clear. And just before the New Year, snow can fall, which will turn the city into a fairy tale.

You will be greeted by orange tiled roofs with carved weather vanes, ancient streets with lanterns and centuries-old buildings softly wrapped in snow. Aromas of marzipan, cinnamon and pine needles are in the air, mixing with the multilingual dialect of numerous guests of the city. for the New Year today, not only Russians, but also residents of Europe acquire.

If you stay in Estonia until mid-January, you may need an umbrella. This month the average temperature stays a little below zero. It is much warmer during the day, cooler at night, but not lower than -5 degrees. Snow rarely falls in January, but it can rain. At this time, the streets of the city are covered with a thin crust of ice.

New Year in Tallinn - places of rest and traditions

It should be noted that Estonians borrowed many New Year's customs from the Scandinavian peoples. Popular headdresses (wreaths) - belong to pagan traditions. And the streets of the city are decorated according to European customs. Cute, like gingerbread houses, dress up with straw crafts.

On the tables you can find such festive food as jelly, roast, stewed cabbage, beer, homemade cakes. At the end of the feast, the hostesses are in no hurry to remove treats from the table - they are left for incorporeal guests who can drop by that night.

Things to do?

No one will be bored here, but you will have the opportunity to walk a lot (the weather in Tallinn is conducive to this), admire the local architecture, learn the interesting centuries-old history of the city, enjoy unusual dishes in restaurants and cafes, learn ancient legends.

Numerous temples hold Christmas and New Year's concerts and services. For example, in the Dome Cathedral you can get to an evening of organ music, and on the Town Hall Square you can enjoy the performance of musicians and dancers.

What to watch?

Tallinn is divided into two parts - Vyshgorod, which is called knightly, and the Lower Old Town. In former times it was a shopping area. The Old Town begins from the Virus Gate. Previously, there were shops and workshops of artisans of the Dominican monastery.

Since 1441, the most important Christmas tree in Estonia has been decorated on the Town Hall Square. Every year a grandiose New Year and Christmas fair unfolds here. There is also the oldest pharmacy, which appeared in the city in 1422, and where today you can buy wine with various spices, prepared according to an ancient recipe, as well as various sweets and marzipan. This pharmacy has a small museum.

From the Town Hall Square, where the Historical Museum is located in the building of the Great Guild, you can walk along the old cobbled Pikk street to the Pühavaimu church. Here you can see the most ancient clock mechanism, stained-glass windows and city clock of the 17th century. This street ends with the Fat Margaret Tower and the Sea Gate.

On the parallel Lai street there is an amazing building, which belongs to the Middle Ages - "Three Sisters". Today it houses a luxury hotel in Tallinn. Along the unusual street-staircase Luhike Jalg, you can approach the Niguliste church, which houses the world-famous painting by B. Notke "Dance of Death".

For a more active holiday, visit the Singing Field. In winter, there are excellent slopes for snowboarders and skiers. By the way, many residents of Moscow and St. Petersburg come to Tallinn for the weekend and have a great time here.

Where to go with children?

Surely, children and teenagers will be fascinated by the numerous ones. They will also like the zoo, which contains 350 species of animals.

In Tallinn there is a museum for children Miia-Mila-Manda, dedicated to the nature of Estonia. It is designed for children up to 12 years old. For parents with very young children, the Vemb Tembumaa amusement park is suitable. You can watch a breathtaking performance at the city's Puppet Theatre. Visit the Marzipan Alley, where children will be taught how to make funny figurines, which they can then take with them.

New year's night

This fabulous and mysterious night can be spent as standard - at the hotel, where a gala dinner and entertainment program will be organized. But it's probably more interesting to come up with your own New Year's story.

New Year in Tallinn can be celebrated in the atmosphere of the amazing Olde Hansa restaurant, which invites guests to plunge into the era of the XIV-XV centuries. The special interior, candles, historical costumes of the attendants and, of course, the extraordinary cuisine, will leave an indelible impression.

Treats here are prepared according to old and very rare recipes. For the preparation of these dishes, products that are not very familiar to modern man are used. The menu does not include potato dishes, which did not yet exist in the era of knights, but you will be offered original dishes made from lentils, pearl barley, swede.

Where to stay?

It is more convenient to rent a house in the city center, since the main festive events are held here. For example, the famous Christmas market takes place on the Town Hall Square, which is located in the center of Tallinn.

Many hotels offer New Year's programs. They include a gala dinner, gifts for all guests, a concert. If you want the New Year to be remembered for a long time, then pay attention to the following hotels:

Meriton Garden Hotel 4 * - a hotel that offers comfortable double and triple rooms, from the windows of which a picturesque view of Tallinn opens up. In just a few minutes you will reach the city center.
The Ecoland Hotel 3* is located in a quiet area of the capital of Estonia. It can be a great holiday destination for families with children during the holidays.
Viru 4* is a cozy and modern hotel that offers a wide range of services to ensure a perfect holiday.

When booking a hotel or apartment, keep in mind that New Year's tours to Tallinn are very popular, so you need to take care of finding accommodation in advance. During the New Year holidays, many tourists come to the city. Early booking will allow you to "kill two birds with one stone" - you will have time to choose the most convenient room for you and save on payment, since by December the cost of housing increases significantly.

Tallinn for the New Year: reviews

According to the people who met the New Year 2016 in Tallinn (and those who have been here before), such a trip resembled a romantic trip. In the capital of Estonia there is a special atmosphere of a fairy tale, miracle, mystery. Many note that Tallinn in winter is great for families with children during the holidays.

New Year in Estonia

New Year's tours to Estonia are gaining more and more popularity. This fact is due to the fact that the traditional celebration of the New Year in European countries is very different from ours! Of course, one can talk endlessly about such an event, but it is better to see it all once with your own eyes.

Weather for winter holidays in Estonia

New Year's atmosphere in Tallinn transforms the city almost beyond recognition. The temperature here at this time rarely drops below -2 degrees Celsius. Tourists are very pleased that the weather this season most often does without rain. Just before Christmas, a little snow may fall, but the temperature in this case will practically not change. A tour to Estonia for Christmas and New Year 2018 with children will be a wonderful gift for them for such a magical event. You can independently choose the program of the trip to spend your time as comfortable and interesting as possible! Exhibitions, city bazaars, nature trips - exactly what your family needs!

Celebration traditions

Estonians borrowed some New Year traditions from their Scandinavian ancestors. On the eve of the holiday, many indigenous people wear traditional wreaths made from natural materials on their heads. The city itself is decorated according to European canons. New Year holidays in Estonia are the best option for those who want to experience the unique atmosphere of the holiday. Roast, jelly, stewed cabbage and beer are most often found on the tables here, and Estonians do not forget about homemade cakes.

A New Year's trip to one of the most beautiful European countries is a great option for the whole family. It is better to start organizing it now, when the prices for trips to Estonia for the New Year 2018 are more affordable than they will be in December. Book a tour today and get a good rest at a bargain price!

Among the list of the most diverse cities that are perfect for the role of a place to meet the next New Year's Eve, Tallinn should be singled out - one of the most famous historical centers of the Baltic states. At any time of the year, this unique island of medieval architecture is like a hailstone from the distant past. In winter, the capital of Estonia turns into a real fairy-tale kingdom.

The main New Year's attribute of the city is, of course, the Christmas tree, installed on the central square. An interesting fact: for the first time such a “decoration” appeared here about 570 years ago.

In order to come to the Baltic States and at the same time enjoy this time to the fullest, you only need to determine in advance exactly how and where in Tallinn to celebrate the New Year 2018.

How to celebrate a holiday in the capital of Estonia?

Do not dissemble - the local residents, like the guests of the city, are used to celebrating New Year's Eve on a grand scale. But for Estonians, Christmas continues to be the most long-awaited holiday of this period. Preparation for the celebration begins from the first days of the snowy season. During this period, Christmas markets open in city squares, where it is easy to find not only interesting souvenirs or delicious food, but also plenty of fun.

Throughout the New Year holidays, various music concerts, favorite festivals and other entertainments take place on the streets of Tallinn. On the days of the long-awaited event, you can even visit cinematic screenings. It is noteworthy that the local New Year holidays coincide with the Russian ones, and therefore in 2018 they will last until January 10.

Estonian cuisine is considered no less remarkable - it is easy for local chefs to please the guests of the city with a whole list of delicious national dishes. By the way, in Estonia, Tallinn is considered an ideal place for shopping, because shortly before Christmas, a period of good sales starts here.

In winter, when everything around is covered with snow, the historical quarters of the capital acquire an incomparable, original beauty. Climbing up to any observation deck, you can admire every corner of this ancient city. It is best to “take a look at the old city” from the Vishgorod posts or just climb the local TV tower.

Tallinn Fair

In 2018, the largest coniferous beauty of the capital will appear on the square near the Town Hall. It is here, in the most crowded place in the city, that an unprecedented fair opens, saturated with an atmosphere of fun. Needless to say, this festive market is one of the most famous in Europe. It is clear that for those who have never experienced such an event in reality, one should tell more extensively about the winter fair:

around the perimeter of all the local shops and stalls there is a myriad of various snow figurines, wooden crafts and other fabulous attributes;
tourists who have already visited such a colorful place recommend paying attention to handmade clothes;
on the square where the bazaar is located, there is the house of Santa Claus;
the people who came to the square are entertained by street musicians and other artists;
only at the fair you can taste the most delicious Estonian food: marzipans, fried pork, and then drink port wine or hot mulled wine;
the little guests of the holiday will be able to ride on carousels, or visit a real mini-zoo, where there are rabbits, ponies and even real deer.

The main sights of Tallinn

The main assets of the city are, first of all, its architectural monuments. Most of the oldest relics are located in the center of the capital.

Of course, it is simply impossible to list all the iconic places of the Old Town - it is better to get to know them on your first trip to the Baltics.

New Year 2018 in nature: health is above all

Since the weather throughout Estonia in winter is not too similar to typical Russian frosts (the air temperature rarely drops below -4 degrees), it is possible to meet the upcoming celebration in the open air. For example, celebrate New Year's Eve at the rink. The total number of excellent open-type ice arenas in Tallinn is enough to accommodate all lovers of active fun. The main ice rink is located next to the Town Hall. On ordinary days, it works from 10 am to 10 pm, but on December 31 you can even see the dawn on the ice. It’s good that there is an excellent cafe a few steps away - you can always restore the energy spent on the “trip” and warm up a little.

For those who cannot imagine their daily life without sports, gyms work everywhere. Do you want to diversify your active leisure? Well, then you should take the opportunity to go skiing or learn rock climbing. The Nyim and Pirata tracks are most suitable for such purposes. True, snowboarders should use the Singing Field.

Where will he stop?

It is easier and easier to celebrate a holiday in some restaurant or an institution of a similar format. Any hotel is the best to cope with such a task: a solemn event is organized, a dinner with a special menu is being prepared, and after the festivities, you can relax in a pre-booked room.

To get more vivid and unexpected emotions on the eve of the holiday, it is worth considering more irrational methods of meeting it. For example, go to the same restaurant, but not quite ordinary. For such purposes, Tallinn has a lot of interesting places stylized as the Middle Ages. A striking example is the Olde Hansa restaurant. What awaits the local guests? Something truly breathtaking: a dinner exclusively by candlelight, in themed costumes and surroundings. The menu uses dishes that are completely atypical for the present time: poultry in almond sauce, orange jelly or a medieval goose. By the way, it will be much easier to get to any institution for the New Year if you book your favorite table in advance.

In conclusion, it remains only to add that the upcoming holidays will be very interesting and eventful if you spend them in the most popular city in the Baltics. Otherwise, you can always take the opportunity and think about what New Year's Eve in Estonia should be like.

He will tell about interesting traditions of countries where preparations for the main holidays of the year are already in full swing.

These are the brightest, long-awaited and brightest days of the winter season in any country. However, each nation celebrates these holidays in its own way, with special traditions, legends and customs. And what is the New Year in different countries, Sputnik will tell.

Latvia

In Latvia, the celebration of Christmas and the New Year (“Ziemassvetki”) is a synthesis of pagan, Soviet and traditions borrowed from the West in the post-Soviet period. But traditionally, Christmas in Latvia is celebrated more widely than the New Year.

The main dish of the Latvian Christmas is boiled gray peas with fried bacon - lard. All boiled peas must be eaten on this day - so that the tears of this year do not remain for the next. In addition, a popular dish on the Latvian Christmas table is boiled pork head with boiled gray peas and fish - for example, carp with sweet meat and large scales, which are usually put in purses and pockets to always be with money in the new year. And also on Christmas Eve, Latvians remember the once popular black pudding.

The most popular type of holiday cookie is piparkukas, which is similarly relevant in Estonia and Finland. A special variety of fragrant pepper and other spices are added to the dough before baking, which creates a recognizable pleasant smell. In addition, Latvian confectioners make real gingerbread houses from piparkukas dough, which often become a Christmas present.

The main decoration for Christmas in Latvia is the Advent wreath, which is made from improvised materials: twigs, hay, straw, plant stems.

The celebration of the New Year in Latvia is notable for the abundance of festive dishes on the table. On the rich New Year's tables of Latvians, in addition to the crown pig's head and fish, there are always pies, pies with bacon, homemade mulled wine, oven-baked potatoes, stewed cabbage with honey and cumin, roast, pickle salad and beer. The traditional drink for Latvians is champagne.

Signs: On the first day of the new year in Latvia, it is customary to scatter peas in all homes, symbolizing a plentiful and fruitful year. Meeting the New Year, you must eat at least one pea.

Estonia

Estonia is a country with several religious confessions, so Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran Christmas is respected here. Estonia borrowed many traditions from the Scandinavian countries. So it is not surprising that their Christmas is also called Jõulund, after the Swedish deity of the Winter Solstice. And the Estonian Santa Claus is called Jõuluvana.

There is an interesting New Year's sign in Estonia. Fortunately, it is considered to meet a chimney sweep on the street with craft tools - a high cylinder and a weight on a rope with a brush. A figurine of such a soot-stained chimney sweep is very popular as a New Year's gift in Estonia.

The beginning of Advent is especially important for young children, who are waiting for little gnomes, called in Estonian "päkapikud" pyakapikud, who live in Lapland, neighboring Estonia. It is believed that at night during the month of December, magical gnomes go from house to house, who give gifts and treats to children.

A characteristic feature of the celebration of New Year's Eve in Estonia is also a hearty meal. On the Christmas table, there is always pork, traditional Estonian sausages, roasts, stewed cabbage, jelly, as well as homemade bread and beer.

On Christmas Eve, Estonians always read a Christmas prayer, in which they ask for strength not to offend either people or animals, to be attentive, to be able to forgive, to take care not only of loved ones, but also of strangers - especially the elderly.

Signs: On Christmas Eve, Estonians can't do without going to the bathhouse. Bathing on the eve of Christmas and New Year, according to ancient Estonian beliefs, helps to get rid of all diseases, and also kindle an inner fire that will warm a person from the inside for the next year.

Armenia

New Year in Armenian tradition is a symbol of renewal and rethinking of the past. The celebration of the New Year among Armenians has an ancient tradition. According to the data that have come down to contemporaries, the Armenians had as many as three New Year holidays: Amanor (March 21), Navasard (August 11) and New Year on January 1.

Armenians have an ancient proverb: "Without wine, the New Year will come, but without ngatzahik, it will be late." In ancient times, ngatzahik was the most famous condiment. This appetizing flower grew on the slopes of Ararat. It was collected and dried, and then distributed throughout Armenia. And no matter where an Armenian lives, on New Year's Eve he always used dried ngatzahik in New Year's dishes. This tradition was a symbol of the national unity of the Armenians.

In many regions of Armenia, another tradition "Kahuk" or "Gotekakha" was spread. Its essence was that on the eve of New Year's Eve, young people lowered baskets taken with them through the chimney, accompanying this with songs and wishes congratulating the household. And the mistress of this house had to fill the lowered baskets with fruits and sweets.

Part of the New Year's traditions is directly related to the cults of fire, trees, water. In some regions of Armenia, it was customary to "kahandovat" on New Year's Eve. They took a log that had to be burned in the New Year, it was called "The log of the beginning of the year." After burning, sparkling firebrands were buried in the fields so that the new year would be fruitful and there would be no losses in the new year.

Centuries have passed and, of course, much has changed. But the New Year still remains the most cheerful and favorite holiday for Armenians.

Usually the New Year in Armenia is celebrated in the family circle and at a table full of food. It is noteworthy that on January 1, according to ancient tradition, the list of New Year's dishes includes products whose names begin with the letter N: Ngatzakhik, Nur (pomegranate), Nush (almond), etc.

Traditional Armenian New Year's dishes are also "anush apur" (soup with dried fruits) and "ghapama" (pumpkin stuffed with rice, honey, nuts, dried fruits). Until now, in some regions of Armenia, the baking of festive New Year's bread - "tareats" is widespread. And of course, Armenian wine and cognac.

At children's holidays, the New Year in Armenia is traditionally celebrated with Santa Claus - Kahand Pap and the Snow Maiden - Dzyunanushik, melodies of modern and folk Armenian songs sound. Interestingly, in Armenia, gifts are given by the head of the family, they are also hung on the Christmas tree.

For Christmas in Armenia they cook sweet "lean" rice pilaf with dried fruits, nuts and pistachios, they always boil, fry or bake fish (traditionally trout), bake Easter cakes. A coin is put into the "happy" Easter cake: whoever gets such a Easter cake - for that year will be happy.

Signs: In order not to know grief next year, you should eat a little honey before tasting other dishes. According to ancient belief, sometimes invited guests and neighbors, having come to the house, scatter nuts around the house.

Uzbekistan

New Year in Uzbekistan is celebrated twice a year: the first time according to the European style - on January 1, and the second - on March 21. Both of these days are days off.

New Year on January 1 in Uzbekistan is more of a secular holiday, celebrated since Soviet times with the presence of all traditional holiday attributes. Like all over the world, Uzbekistan has its own Santa Claus - they call him Korbobo and his own Snow Maiden - she is called Korkiz. Instead of deer - Donkey. True, it is rare to see Korbobo on a donkey on the streets of Uzbekistan.

Folk festivals are held on the main square of Tashkent: jokes, dances of different nations, masks, Christmas trees and gifts are sold.
It is customary to serve a large amount of fruit to the New Year's table in Uzbekistan. In addition to traditional national dishes, there should certainly be watermelon. If it is ripe and sweet, then the New Year will be happy.

This great international holiday comes to every family and, of course, is widely and cheerfully celebrated throughout the country. In the capital on the main square appears, sparkling with the lights of garlands and decorated with balls, the favorite of all the kids - a live Christmas tree - a symbol of the New Year. Young people gather here to hear the sound of the Tashkent chimes at magical midnight. And in the following days, the square becomes the epicenter of mass celebrations. Children especially frolic, because Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden are waiting for them here.

Signs: Many people in Uzbekistan try to eat 12 grapes while the clock is counting down the New Year. Whoever performs this ritual believes that the wish made will come true. According to another happy omen, one should break all the old, cracked ceramic plates before the New Year, then nothing bad from the old year will be repeated in the coming one.

Tajikistan

Celebrating the New Year in Tajikistan began only with the advent of Soviet power. Before that, Tajiks celebrated the beginning of winter, the celebration fell on the night of December 21-22 - the longest of the year. Now the inhabitants of Tajikistan celebrate both the ancient holiday and the traditional New Year - with Christmas trees, tinsel and Santa Claus.

Father Frost in Tajik is Boboi Barfi, which means Snow Grandfather. With their granddaughter Barfak - Snezhinka - they are welcome guests of every Tajik child.

Celebrating the arrival of winter is an old Tajik tradition that came to Tajikistan from pre-Islamic times. December 21-22 is the longest night of the year. It is celebrated by reading poetry, preparing treats. It is on this day that a ripe watermelon or pomegranate is cut. This tradition came to the country from Zoroastrianism.

Tajiks celebrate the calendar New Year with great pleasure. City streets are decorated with garlands, lanterns and other tinsel. New Year's paraphernalia is briskly traded in city shops and bazaars. Outside the windows of the houses, silhouettes of Christmas trees are guessed, and delicious aromas come from the yards. New Year's Eve performances for children have been set up in central squares in cities and districts.

Festive events are held in the parks of Dushanbe. And on the capital's Dusti Square, where the country's largest Christmas tree flaunts, during the day there is a grandiose fair, and in the evening - a festive concert with the participation of Tajik pop stars, which completes the magnificent fireworks.

Kazakhstan

In Kazakhstan, the new year ("Zhana zhyl") is celebrated twice: on January 1 - in accordance with the European tradition, and on March 21-23 - after the vernal equinox ("Nauryz meiramy"). Both holidays are celebrated at the state level.

The celebration of the New Year on the night of December 31 to January 1 is rooted in the Soviet past of Kazakhstan, so it is not much different from the New Year's Eve in Russia. Now it is one of the most massive and favorite holidays in the country.

City streets are decorated with New Year symbols as much as possible. However, unlike in Europe, one rarely sees Father Frost (Ayaz ata) with the Snow Maiden (Akshakar) on the streets - they are usually guests of corporate events.

The New Year holiday began to be celebrated on the territory of Kazakhstan in the middle of the 19th century, when Russian settlers settled here. When celebrating the New Year, close friends and relatives gather at the table to celebrate the New Year. First, everyone "sees off" the Old Year and remembers what was good in it, and at 00 hours 00 minutes, the chimes begin to beat, counting the last seconds of the Old Year.

With the advent of January 1, everyone congratulates each other and drinks champagne, which is considered a traditional drink for the New Year. Kazakhs are very fond of holidays, so their feasts can last until the morning.

Moldova

New Year in Moldova is celebrated on January 1st. The date of the celebration of the New Year, as well as the traditions associated with it, have undergone significant changes over the past century. In addition, over the past half century, the New Year has become the largest and most popular holiday in the country: it is traditionally celebrated in the family circle, although festivities take place both before and after its onset.

Moldovans have their own New Year's characters, who came from Moldovan folklore - these are Mosh Krechun (Father Frost) and Fata de Zepade (Snow Maiden), who have become favorite guests of children's matinees. As a rule, the evil Baba Yaga (Baba Khyrka) tries to prevent the holiday from coming, but her plans are defeated.

Placinta pies - New Year's goodies with predictions. A sheet of paper with a written prediction-wish for the New Year is inserted inside each placenta. These predictions are read all together and laugh for a long time if the old woman falls to meet and fall in love with a handsome guy.

Residents of the Republic of Moldova still continue to celebrate the arrival of the New Year twice - the first time at 22:00 Moscow time, and the second time at 24:00 local time. Folk festivals take place in the squares of large cities, where they set up Christmas trees and decorate the streets. In Chisinau, the most elegant is Stephen the Great Avenue.

According to old traditions, on the New Year's Moldavian table, there should be 12 dishes according to the number of months in a year, so that each month in the new year brings prosperity. Kutia and New Year's kalach are placed in the center in the most beautiful plate.

In rural areas, the custom is also preserved to receive congratulations on New Year's Eve from mummers who go from house to house. The march of the mummers is led by a man dressed as a goat, personifying evil spirits, the approach of which is announced by the satellites ringing bells.

Sputnik / MIROSLAV ROTARI

One of the most interesting pre-New Year traditions in Moldova is the celebration of St. Andrew's Day, when unmarried girls tell fortunes about their betrothed. Also on this night, young people steal the girls' gates. To do this, the young men agree, gather and remove the gates from the hinges, and in order to return these gates later, the girls must treat them with freshly baked donuts with garlic.

The well-known carols also belong to Moldovan Christmas customs. As a rule, only boys and girls carol in Moldova. But sometimes even adults go to congratulate their neighbors, relatives, friends, and sometimes even strangers on Christmas. The carolers sing beautiful songs and receive sweets, gifts and even money in return.

Signs: in Moldova they "sow" happiness - coming to someone's house, guests scatter grains of wheat, corn and other grains around the house. It is believed that thanks to this, the coming year will be prosperous and fruitful.

Belarus

Belarusian New Year traditions are a mixture of old and new trends. The traditional Belarusian Santa Claus is St. Nicholas (Holy Mikola). In Belarusian mythology, there is a character who greatly influenced the idea of Belarusians about what Santa Claus looks like. This is the ancient deity Zyuzya, who is the personification of the winter cold. Since Soviet times, Snegurochka has been his constant companion and assistant in distributing gifts.

Belarusians traditionally celebrate the New Year in the family circle, young people go to restaurants, discos, meet it on the squares of large cities. The older generation loves to watch concerts with the participation of pop stars.

On the eve of the most important religious holiday - the Nativity of Christ - the Belarusian people, faithful to the traditions, sit down at the festive table - generous, but fasting. January 6th - Holy Supper, which is prepared after putting things in order in the houses. They are cleansed and spiritually confessed.

Be sure to have 12 dishes on the table - in honor of the 12 Apostles of Christ. Traditional dishes have always been fish, mushrooms, porridge, beans (beans), potatoes, cabbage rolls, cookies, kutya. In no case should you swear, argue, all family members should be at home on this day. Children should help in the preparations.

The ancestors of the Belarusians had an interesting New Year's ritual. Fifteen minutes before the end of the old year, the family placed an earthenware half-filled with water in the middle of the table. In turn, all family members extended their left hand and held it over this vessel for exactly a minute. At the same time, each of those present in his thoughts gave the water diseases, losses, envy, crop failure - that is, everything that did not suit him in the first place in the past year. And then they poured water with all the troubles out the window. As soon as midnight came, the same dishes were again filled with water to the very edge and placed on the table. And the family again, in turn, stretched out their right hand over her and silently uttered wishes for good, health, success, good luck, and family well-being. A minute later, the ritual cup was passed around and everyone drank their "share of wishes."

By tradition, before the New Year holidays, Belarusians try to return all debts, as they were sure that if this was not done, then the whole year would have to be paid off.

Signs: many Belarusians believe that if on New Year's Eve, as soon as the clock starts to strike midnight, write down the most cherished desire on a piece of paper and have time to burn the paper with the last, twelfth blow, then the wish will come true.

Russia

In Russia, the New Year is the main holiday, which in the country is usually celebrated at the table with family or friends. Traditional dishes for the Russian New Year's table are salads "Olivier" and "Herring under a fur coat". And the most "New Year's" fruit is tangerines, the drink is champagne.

Salad "Olivier"

It is impossible to imagine the Russian New Year without a Christmas tree - this is one of the most important symbols of the holiday, under which children find gifts in the morning.

In many families, it is customary to bake special pies with wishes for the New Year's table: a piece of paper in foil is wrapped in a pie, on which a pleasant wish is written. Instead of a wish, there is also a surprise. For example, a coin is put into one pie from a large batch, one is baked very salty, and another one is very sweet. Anyone who pulls out a pie with a coin to the chiming clock will become rich this year. A salty pie symbolizes difficulties and trials, a sweet pie symbolizes a "sweet" life.

In Russian families, to make the atmosphere for the New Year in the house even more festive, snowflakes are cut out of paper and glued to the windows. The main character of the New Year is Santa Claus, a kind magical old man with a white beard in a red, white or blue fur coat and felt boots. Santa Claus rides on a troika of horses, and his granddaughter Snegurochka helps him.

And, of course, before every New Year in Russia, "New Year's films" are shown on TV - "Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath!", "Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Profession", "Carnival Night", "Gentlemen of Fortune" and "Operation Y "and other adventures of Shurik".

And another feature that is unique to Russia and the CIS countries is the equally large-scale celebration of the Old New Year on the night of January 13-14 and Christmas. Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7th. On Christmas Eve, it is customary for Russian girls to guess: the pagan tradition has survived to this day. It is believed that on this special night you can find out exactly your fate and find out when and whom you will marry.

Signs: on New Year's Eve in Russia it is customary to dress in new and better clothes, because if you enter the new year with a new thing, then you will walk in new clothes for a whole year. It is also believed that you cannot give money on New Year's Eve, otherwise you will have to give it all year. Before the New Year, it is also recommended to throw out all broken dishes from the house, wash windows and mirrors. It is also impossible to sleep on New Year's Eve, otherwise the whole year will pass sluggishly and uninterestingly.

Georgia

On the New Year (in Georgian "Akhali goals") in Georgia it is customary for the table to literally burst with dishes. Roasted piglet, cheese, delicious stuffed eggplant rolls, meat, poultry and fish dishes, mountains of herbs and spicy vegetable marinades, the most delicate khachapuri and lobiani melting in your mouth, as well as sweet churchkhela loved by children and adults.

Satsivi is the most favorite dish and an essential attribute of the Georgian New Year's table. The piquant, unique and multifaceted taste of this Georgian dish cannot be described in words. Gozinaki (roasted walnuts in honey) is a traditional Georgian New Year's delicacy. The tradition of cooking "Olivier" has remained since Soviet times. On the festive table, of course, along with a bottle of champagne, there is Georgian chacha and wine. Wine is drunk from a variety of horns and clay vessels. So the inhabitants of Georgia drink "ganskhwavebuli" - it is a custom to drink "special toasts" from non-standard glasses.

When the New Year comes, “Mravalzhamier” is heard everywhere in the country - this is a traditional Georgian drinking song, which is performed by the national Georgian polyphony.

Among the main New Year's legends of Georgia is the mysterious Mekvle. Mekvle is a person who is destined to be the first to cross the threshold of your house on New Year's Eve. It is his foot, according to ancient legend, that brings happiness or misfortune.

Georgian Santa Claus or "Tovlis babua" - a gray-haired old man with a long beard, in a black or white chokha with a white cloak. Sometimes grandfather carries a dagger. It is noteworthy that the Georgian Santa Claus does not have a granddaughter. But there is a character "Pipkiya" - a snowflake or a snow fairy who accompanies Tovlis Babua. Georgians also have their own Christmas tree - chichilaki. This small snow-white tree, made by hand from hazel branches, is decorated with sweets and berries.

At Christmas in Georgia, there is one beautiful tradition "Alilo" - from the word "Hallelujah", that is, the praise of God. This is an ancient tradition and a beautiful procession in honor of the birth of the baby Jesus. The festive procession is headed by symbolizing angels and with wreaths on their heads "Makharobeli" ("heralds of joy" - cargo.). They are followed by young people with shepherd's staffs in their hands, in Svan fluffy hats and in clothes made of sheep's wool.

They personify the shepherds who came to the born Savior. Other participants of "Alilo" - in white shrouds with red crosses - carry icons, banners - a religious banner with the image of Christ and lamps. All those participating in the procession sing a special hymn - "Alilo", which is performed exclusively on this holiday. And ahead of the procession is a cart on oxen, and in it are large baskets in which donations are collected for those in need. All around is a crowd of people in dresses and carol costumes - everyone sings, dances, plays musical instruments.

Procession "Alilo"

On Christmas night, according to the tradition introduced by the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II, in every Georgian house a candle brought from the church is lit on the window - in memory of distant biblical events, when Joseph and Mary, wandering, were looking for shelter for the birth of their son.

Signs: January 2 in Georgia has long been celebrated as the Day of Fate or Bedoba. There is a belief that, as you meet and spend this day, so you will spend the year. Therefore, the inhabitants of Georgia try to spend this day safely and carefree, and most importantly, together with their loved ones and close people.

Happy New Year and Merry Christmas, dear readers!

The material was prepared on the basis of open sources.

The capital of Estonia is a city with a rich history, in winter it looks like a fairy-tale kingdom. For the first time in the capital of Estonia, a New Year's beauty was installed 570 years ago. If you do not know where to celebrate the New Year 2018 of the Yellow Earth Dog, go to Tallinn.

Interesting facts about the meeting of the New Year 2018 of the Yellow Earth Dog in Tallinn

New Year in Tallinn is celebrated on a large scale, but, nevertheless, the main holiday is Christmas;
Residents begin preparations for the winter festivities from the first days of winter;
Throughout December, Christmas markets are open in Tallinn from morning to evening, where you can buy trinkets, original souvenirs;
Starting from December and throughout January, music concerts are held in the city right on the street;
On holidays in the capital of Estonia, you can visit cinema screenings;
New Year's days in Tallinn coincide with Russian ones and also end on January 9-10;
Estonian cuisine is able to please visitors with national dishes and drinks;
Tallinn has ideal conditions for shopping, as sales are held everywhere on New Year's Day.

Old Tallinn - a fairy tale in reality

The historical quarters of the city are especially beautiful and original in winter. The city can be seen from the observation decks. A beautiful view of Old Tallinn opens from two posts of Vyshgorod. You can also enjoy the view of the ancient city from the TV tower, located half an hour away.

Video: what to do in Tallinn for the New Year 2018

The New Year tree is installed on the square near the Town Hall. Fairs are held here, which are remembered not only by a wide selection of all kinds of New Year's goods, but also by the atmosphere of the holiday.

The Tallinn Christmas Market is one of the most famous in Europe.

Here you can see a lot of interesting things:

these are beautifully carved snow figures, juniper crafts, small pleasant little things for the holiday;
here you can have a delicious bite of traditional fried pork, taste marzipans, warm up by drinking hot mulled wine or porter;
walking along the rows, you can buy masterfully knitted clothes with elements of local color;
listen to street musicians and singers;
visit the house of Santa Claus, which is located on the square.

For kids, colorful carousels are installed, a zoo is open, where they can look at reindeer, ponies, fluffy rabbits.

Historical sights of Tallinn

The sights of Tallinn are, first of all, its architectural monuments. It is in the center of the city that these relics are located. There are quite a few of them:

in Tallinn, a medieval wall has been preserved that protects the city from enemies - it has 18 towers and reaches more than two kilometers;
two towers are also cultural monuments: Kik-in-de-Kek - a defensive structure, and the Hellemann tower with a spiral ladder, which was once a warehouse and even a prison;
Toompea Castle, with its tower "Long German", in which they lived and stored grain, and below there was a dungeon where they threw objectionable people to be devoured by hungry lions;
a very beautiful place is the tower square, in the summer flower festivals are held on it;
one of the greatest attractions is the Dome Cathedral, completely rebuilt after a strong fire in the 17th century.