GUM Fair (Red Square Christmas Market)

The GUM Fair is one of Moscow’s biggest winter attractions and a signature event during Russia’s holiday season. Set right in the center of Red Square, it transforms one of the country’s most iconic spaces into a bright and cheerful Christmas market. With its glowing arches, wooden stalls, and festive music, the fair offers a warm escape from the harsh winter cold.

A Winter Tradition in the Heart of Moscow

The fair usually starts in late November and runs until mid-January, covering Christmas, New Year, and Russia’s Orthodox Christmas on January 7. Since its introduction, it has gradually evolved into a cultural symbol of Moscow’s winter festivities. Families, tourists, and locals return every year as part of their holiday tradition.

Design and Atmosphere

Every year brings a new visual theme. Some years highlight classic Russian folklore, while others lean toward contemporary art or fairy-tale motifs. Expect thousands of lights, animated decorations, giant Christmas trees, and photo spots arranged around the square. The contrast between the cozy wooden stalls and the massive red-brick Kremlin walls creates an atmosphere that is both warm and dramatic.

What You Can Explore at the Fair

Holiday Shopping and Crafts

The fair is known for showcasing regional artisans. You’ll find:

• Hand-painted Matryoshka dolls

• Traditional Russian felt boots

• Lace and textiles from Vologda

• Ceramic ornaments

• Wooden toys from Sergiev Posad

• Winter accessories crafted from natural wool

Many items are handcrafted, so they make meaningful holiday gifts.

Food, Drinks, and Seasonal Treats

The food stalls are often crowded, especially in the evenings. Popular items include:

• Pirozhki filled with cabbage, potato, or meat

• Blini served with honey, jam, or caviar

• Shashlik grilled over open fire

• Medovukha, a warm honey drink

• Mulled wine with spices

• Pryaniki, Russia’s version of gingerbread

The fair is designed so visitors can walk, snack, and warm up as they explore.

Ice Rink and Activities

The large skating rink near GUM is one of the biggest winter sports attractions in central Moscow. It offers:

• Public skating sessions

• Skating lessons for kids

• Themed holiday shows

• Occasional performances by Russian skaters

The rink is framed by the historic facades of Red Square, which makes it one of the most photographed skating spots in the country.

Entertainment and Cultural Programs

Throughout the season, the fair hosts:

• Folk singing and dance performances

• Children’s puppet shows

• Carol groups

• Street performers

• Traditional New Year characters like Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and Snegurochka (Snow Maiden)

These keep the atmosphere lively from day to night.

A Blend of Festive Spirit and Historic Grandeur

Red Square is surrounded by architectural icons like St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, and the GUM department store. Combined with the lights and winter decorations, the entire area becomes one of Europe’s most picturesque Christmas market settings.

Best Time to Visit

Evenings are the most magical because of the lights, but mornings are quieter and better for photography. Weekends tend to be busy, while weekdays offer more space to explore comfortably. Snowfall adds even more charm, especially when the roofs of the stalls and skating rink get covered in a light white layer.

Why the GUM Fair Is Special

It isn’t just a place to shop or eat. It’s a seasonal ritual that ties together nostalgia, culture, and celebration. Visitors come for the warmth, the sights, the food, and the feeling of being part of Moscow’s winter heartbeat. The fair is a festive pause in the middle of a historic place that has seen centuries of events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does the GUM Fair usually take place?

• It typically opens in late November and continues through mid-January, covering both New Year celebrations and Orthodox Christmas.

Q: Is entry to the GUM Fair free?

• Yes. The market itself is open to the public at no cost. You only pay for food, souvenirs, and skating sessions.

Q: What kind of food can I try at the fair?

• Expect Russian winter specialties like blini, pirozhki, shashlik, gingerbread, mulled wine, and warm honey drinks.

Q: Are the stalls run by local artisans?

• Many vendors represent regional crafts from across Russia, offering handmade ornaments, knitted goods, wooden toys, and traditional souvenirs.

Q: Can you skate at the fair?

• Yes. A large ice rink is set up near GUM. You can join public skating sessions or watch performances held throughout the season.

Q: Is the fair suitable for kids?

• Very much. Children can enjoy puppet shows, games, character meet-and-greets, and festive performances.

Q: What is the best time to visit?

• Evenings look the most festive with all the lights, while mornings and weekdays are quieter and better for photos.

Q: Is it crowded?

• Weekends and holidays get busy, especially in the evenings. If you prefer space, visit earlier in the day or on a weekday.

Q: Can tourists access the fair easily?

• Yes. Red Square is central and well-connected by metro. The fair is easy to find and walk through once you arrive.

Q: Is the GUM Fair open during snow or extreme cold?

• The fair usually stays open in most weather conditions. It’s designed for winter, so stalls, lighting, and activities continue even when it’s snowing.

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