We wish you a Happy New Year! As some of you know, 2019 has arrived in Europe as well as much as Africa, the Gulf and the remaining parts of Asia and of course, Russia.
But as most of us hit the night club or watch a giant New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square, we celebrate New Year’s Eve in the Russian style.
As Ariella Plachtaa describes: “A s per Novy God (New Year’s) tradition, Russians and other natives of former-Soviet countries ring in the New Year surrounded by what looks like veritable Christmas symbols to the American eye: a decorated evergreen tree in the living room, twinkly lights, tinsel, an often blue-coated Santa Claus figure called Ded Moroz (Mr.Clause) and the exchange of gifts. There’s even a snow maiden called Snegurochka (Ms. Clause).”
We usually enjoy a quite evening among friends and family while enjoying great conversations in front of the TV and beautifully decorated tree. Personally, the most important part of New Years is family, followed by food. Our table is covered in dishes such as caviar, “winter” salad, “shuba” aka “herring under a coat” salad layered with herring, potatoes, carrots and eggs based on the Soviet Union recipes.
Deserts include apples, oranges, assorted famous Russian chocolate candies such as Mishka Kosolapy, Belochka and Alenka and of course waffled pies accompanied with tasty drinks.
Also, one of our families’ traditions is to watch Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York as they bring up the Holidays spirit and warm memories from our childhood. We were around six years when the movie came out. The story was wonderful, funny and touching. Macaulay Culkin was very relatable at that time. We enjoyed every bit of it. To sum it up, following the Russian tradition, we write our sincerest wishes and dreams we want to come true on a piece of paper. When the clock strikes midnight, we burn that piece of paper until ashes and include it in a glass of champagne. We raise our glasses and with you Happy New Year, ya filthy animals!
