While in most Western countries the main winter holiday is Christmas, in Russia it is New Year's Day that is celebrated on a large scale across the country.
In preparations for the most magical night of the year, Moscow has been turned into a winter wonderland with festive markets and fairs popping up on every corner and New Year decorations sparkling everywhere.
Tverskaya Street decorated for the New Year.
Christmas market on Petrovka Street.
New Year illumination on the facade of TsUM department store in Moscow.
Young people on Tverskoy Boulevard.
New Year illumination on Tverskoy Boulevard.
Pancakes sold on Tverskoy Boulevard. A traditional Russian samovar is seen here.
A girl is seen here during a test run of the "Musical Forest" New Year light installation on Pushkinskaya Square, Moscow.
A test run of the "Musical Forest" New Year light installation on Pushkinskaya Square, Moscow.
Christmas tree vendors at the GUM Fair on Red Square in Moscow.
Girls pose for selfies at the GUM Fair on Red Square in Moscow.
The GUM Fair in Red Square, Moscow.
Girls taking selfies near the Christmas tree at the GUM-Fair on Red Square in Moscow.
Festive illumination and the Spasskaya Tower of the Moscow Kremlin.
Christmas tree decorations at the GUM-Fair on Red Square in Moscow.
New Year decorations on Red Square in Moscow.
