New Year's Eve, the Slavic Way

For many Slavic families, New Year's Eve is the most important celebration of the year — even more so than Christmas.

The Traditions

The Soviet Legacy

When religious holidays were discouraged during the Soviet era, New Year's Eve absorbed many Christmas traditions. Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) delivers presents, and a decorated New Year's tree takes center stage.

The Presidential Address

At 11:55 PM, the entire nation watches the President's televised address. When the Kremlin bells strike midnight, champagne corks pop across the country.

Making a Wish

A beloved tradition: write your wish on a piece of paper, burn it, drop the ashes into a glass of champagne, and drink it before the clock finishes striking twelve.

The Feast

Olivier Salad

No New Year's table is complete without this iconic potato salad with peas, pickles, eggs, and bologna.

Herring Under a Fur Coat

Layers of herring, potato, carrot, egg, and beet dressed with mayonnaise — a visual and culinary masterpiece.

Mandarin Oranges

The scent of mandarins is synonymous with New Year in Russia, a tradition dating back to when citrus fruits were a rare winter luxury.

Champagne

Soviet Champagne remains the traditional choice, though tastes have expanded in recent years.

Celebrating with ГАСТРОНОМ

We stock everything you need for an authentic Slavic New Year celebration — from Olivier salad ingredients to Soviet-style champagne and festive chocolates.