The holiday season in Russia is filled with snow, laughter and visits from Father Frost and his granddaughter, the Snow Maiden Snegurochka. Celebrations traditionally take place on Jan 7, and children light the tree by holding hands on New Year’s Eve and calling for Father Frost and Snegurochka; when they arrive, the tree magically lights up. We can’t promise snow, but you can enjoy some traditional Russian holiday celebrations here in Portland this year!

New Year’s Party and Snow Queen Performance

When: Dec 4, 5pm; Dec 11, 3pm & 6pm
Location: Multnomah Art Center, 7688 SW Capitol Hwy
Cost: $23 general admission, under 2 free
Recommended ages: All ages
Tickets: sstheater.yapsody.com
360-839-1729
facebook.com/events/170148190110142

In this two-hour event, children will get to meet a bony old man and Baba Yaga (a forest witch) from Russian folk tales. These characters might try to start trouble, but Father Frost and Snegurochka will come to the rescue and save the party with the fun games and tricks! After a small break, the Snow Queen performance with the adventures of a little girl named Gherda will complete the second half of the show. The ticket cost includes a sweet treat for each child. Note: this event is mostly in the Russian language.

Second Annual New Years Show With Father Frost and His Granddaughter Snegurochka

When: Fri Dec 16, 5:30-7pm
Location: North Clackamas School District, 12400 SE Freeman Way, Milwaukie; 1st floor conference room
Cost: Free
Recommended ages: Elementary school and adults
503-353-6000

Enjoy gifts, cookies, contests and dances around a New Year’s tree, along with songs, poems, face-painting and balloon animals from a clown. Plunge into the world of a fairy tale and make this the most joyous celebration yet.

Slavic New Years

Date: Jan 15, 1-4pm
Location: Gresham Library, 385 NW Miller Ave, Gresham
Cost: Free
Recommended ages: All ages
503-988-5387

This New Year’s party will have a theatrical presentation with Father Frost, Snegurochka, Snow White and the gnomes and many other fairy tale guests. There will be music and traditional treats to taste as well.