Father Frost or Ded Moroz is a key figure of Russian New Year. This white-bearded man wearing a red coat and bringing gifts to children slightly resembles well-known Santa Claus – the character from American culture. 

      Today Ded Moroz celebrates his birthday and many people meet in Veliky Ustyug to congratulate him. Colleagues from all over the world are expected to come: Snow Maidens from Kostroma and Togliatti, Fathers Frost from Ukraine and Belorussia, Little Frost Pakkayne (Karelian personage), Chys Khan (Ruler of Cold) from Yakutia, Sagan Ubugun from Buryatia, Tol Babay from Bashkiria and many others. 

      Guests will see the performance with fairytale characters as well as show on playgrounds of the residence. After that Ded Moroz will participate in the teleconference and culinary duel. The main event of the day is expected to take place in the evening – Father Frost will light up the first New Year tree and then begin his traditional winter journey. Except Russian cities, he is going to visit Germany, Latvia, Slovakia and other places, where children are now waiting for their beloved and kind “Santa”.  

      Source: Ria Novosti. Image courtesy: Liveinternet.