Christmas Trees In St Petersburg: A Holiday Guide

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by visiting a Christmas tree in St Petersburg? The city is known for its stunning winter landscapes, festive atmosphere, and of course, its beautiful Christmas trees. In this article, we'll take you on a journey to explore the best Christmas trees in St Petersburg, provide you with a holiday guide, and share some fun facts about the city's festive traditions.

St Petersburg is a city that takes its Christmas celebrations very seriously. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland, with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and of course, magnificent Christmas trees. From the iconic New Year's Tree in Palace Square to the charming trees in the city's many parks and gardens, there's no shortage of holiday cheer in St Petersburg.

A Brief History of Christmas Trees in St Petersburg

The tradition of decorating Christmas trees in St Petersburg dates back to the 19th century, when the city was the capital of the Russian Empire. The first Christmas tree was set up in the Winter Palace, the former residence of the Russian tsars, and was decorated with candles, fruits, and other ornaments. Today, Christmas trees are an integral part of St Petersburg's holiday celebrations, with many trees set up throughout the city.

Top Christmas Trees to Visit in St Petersburg

St Petersburg is home to many stunning Christmas trees, each with its own unique character and charm. Here are some of the top Christmas trees to visit in St Petersburg:

• New Year's Tree in Palace Square

The New Year's Tree in Palace Square is one of the most iconic Christmas trees in St Petersburg. Standing tall at over 25 meters, this tree is decorated with thousands of lights, ornaments, and garlands. The tree is set up in the heart of Palace Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture of the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building.

• Christmas Tree in the Hermitage Museum

The Hermitage Museum is one of the largest and most famous museums in the world, and its Christmas tree is a must-see. The tree is set up in the museum's grand courtyard and is decorated with ornaments and garlands that reflect the museum's rich cultural heritage.

• Christmas Tree in the Summer Garden

The Summer Garden is one of St Petersburg's most beautiful parks, and its Christmas tree is a highlight of the holiday season. The tree is set up in the park's central square and is decorated with lights, ornaments, and garlands that reflect the park's natural beauty.

Holiday Guide to St Petersburg

St Petersburg is a city that offers something for everyone during the holiday season. From ice skating and sledding to festive markets and holiday performances, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some tips for planning your holiday trip to St Petersburg:

• Ice Skating

St Petersburg has several outdoor ice skating rinks, including the popular rink in Palace Square. The rink is open from late November to early February and offers stunning views of the surrounding architecture.

• Festive Markets

St Petersburg's festive markets are a great place to find unique holiday gifts and try local delicacies. The most popular market is the Christmas Market in Palace Square, which offers a wide range of goods and food.

• Holiday Performances

St Petersburg is known for its rich cultural heritage, and the holiday season is a great time to experience the city's performing arts scene. From ballet and opera to classical music and folk dance, there's something for everyone.

Fun Facts About St Petersburg's Festive Traditions

St Petersburg has a rich history of festive traditions, from its stunning Christmas trees to its unique holiday customs. Here are some fun facts about the city's festive traditions:

• New Year's Eve

In Russia, New Year's Eve is the most important holiday of the year, and St Petersburg is no exception. The city celebrates with fireworks, concerts, and parties that last all night.

• Orthodox Christmas

Russia is an Orthodox country, and St Petersburg celebrates Orthodox Christmas on January 7th. The city's churches and cathedrals are decorated with candles, icons, and festive decorations, and many residents attend midnight mass.

• Holiday Food

St Petersburg's holiday food is a unique blend of Russian and European cuisine. Popular dishes include beef stroganoff, borscht, and pierogies, which are often served with a side of pickled vegetables and dark rye bread.

We hope you've enjoyed this guide to St Petersburg's Christmas trees and holiday traditions. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the city has something to offer everyone during the holiday season. So why not start planning your trip to St Petersburg today and experience the magic of the holiday season in this beautiful Russian city?

Gallery of Christmas Trees In St Petersburg: A Holiday Guide