Belarus is ready to ring in New Year with beautiful street lights and decorations, Christmas markets and glittering New Year trees

The year 2020 is drawing to a close and despite all the difficulties and anxieties of this challenging year there comes a time of gratitude, new hopes and faith that the upcoming year will be better. When Christmas trees sparkle and shine, string lights line the streets, and shop windows are crammed with gifts, this cannot but bring Christmas cheer to Belarusian cities. By tradition, the western cities of Brest and Grodno are the first to turn on Christmas lights, but in a matter of days the lights will fill the whole country. Enjoy the best shots of our big Christmas report!

On 1 December the first Christmas market opened in Brest. It offers not only souvenirs, gifts and carnival costumes, but also hot beverages that will warm you up on a frosty day, like tea from Belarus’ biggest samovar (380 liters) with enough tea to treat 1,500 people!

The Christmas marathon was picked up by Grodno Oblast: on 7 December at 18.00 sharp, lights were lit on the main Christmas tree of the region on Sovetskaya Square and along the city streets where shining fairytale figures could be spotted. It is noteworthy that the lights were lit in an unusual way - using a quadrocopter. In line with a tradition, the lighting ceremony was attended by Father Frost and Snow Maiden. They wished everyone good health and unshakable faith in a miracle in the coming year. On 11 December, a Christmas market opened next to the Christmas tree. Here you will be able to taste mulled wine and gingerbread cookies, refresh yourself with street food, choose gifts and admire the evening views of the city.