Local Guide

Moscow is a blend of modern, Soviet and traditional architecture, vibrant nightlife and world-class sights. You may not know the name St. Basil, but this cathedral has the famous onion domes that are the sight most people associate with Russia. Moscow has always been a haven for history buffs. The red-brick towers of the Kremlin occupy the founding site of Moscow; churches and monuments remember fallen heroes and victorious battles; and remains of the Soviet state are scattered all around the city. Even history is being examined in innovative ways, as new museums broach subjects long brushed under the carpet.

Local Events

Pancake Week

28 Feb

Maslenitsa or Pancake Week is celebrated during the week prior to the onset of Great Lent. It is the way Russian people celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The festival’s highlight, the pancake, is also called a bliny. Round, golden, and warm, the pancakes symbolise the sun.

Victory Day

9 May

Victory Day is not just a celebration of the Soviet’s victory during World War II, it is also a time to remember the country’s fallen soldiers. Held every 9th of May, the festival is marked by a major parade at Red Square and is followed by concerts and fireworks throughout the city.
9 May 2012

Golden Mask

1 Mar

The Golden Mask Theatre Festival features performances from all over the world, ranging from opera to ballet.
Mar/Apr

French Jazz Festival

1 May

The Russia-wide Festival of French Jazz is held at Moscow's Sixteen Tons club, bringing a taste of Paris to the Russian capital. A host of jazz musicians play to a glamorous crowd, lasting well into the early hours.

iViva Espana! - Flamenco Festival

1 Jun

¡Viva Espana! brings some of the highest quality flamenco dancing to one of Moscow's most impressive stages, the Russian Academic Youth Theatre. Attendees can expect not just colourful, vibrant shows but also Spanish food-tasting and master classes in dancing.

Usadba.Jazz Festival in Arkhangelskoe

1 Jun

The Usadba.Jazz festival takes place within the green surroundings of 18th-century Arkhangelskoe Manor, just outside Moscow. Some 30,000 people around five stages party to the sound of classic and contemporary jazz, funk, swing and rock from around 50 international bands.