Novy God

Novy God (Russian: Новый год, Belarusian: Новы год, Ukrainian: Новий рік, literally "New Year") is the Russian, Belarusian, Ukrainian, and other Slavic languages term for the New Year holiday. It is often used to refer to the holiday celebrations centered around January 1st, which are widely celebrated in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, and many other countries of the former Soviet Union.

Novy God is a secular holiday, but its celebrations often incorporate elements of both pre-Christian and Christian traditions. It rose to prominence as the primary winter holiday in the Soviet Union, largely replacing the religious celebration of Christmas following the Russian Revolution. Even after the fall of the Soviet Union, Novy God has remained a popular and important holiday in these regions.

The central figure of Novy God celebrations is Ded Moroz (Russian: Дед Мороз, Belarusian: Дзед Мароз, Ukrainian: Дід Мороз), translated as "Grandfather Frost," who is similar to Santa Claus. Ded Moroz brings gifts to children, often delivered on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day. He is typically accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka (Russian: Снегурочка, Belarusian: Снягурка, Ukrainian: Снігуронька), the Snow Maiden.

Novy God celebrations often involve elaborate family feasts, decorations including a Yolka (a New Year tree, similar to a Christmas tree), and watching holiday-themed television programs and films. The chiming of the Kremlin Clock in Moscow at midnight is a symbolic moment marking the beginning of the New Year. Many people also make New Year's resolutions and celebrate with fireworks and festive gatherings. The holiday frequently extends for several days, incorporating Orthodox Christmas (celebrated on January 7th) in countries following the Julian calendar.