Father Frost set to visit Russian cities

Russian folk hero Father Frost is to visit Russian cities on New Year's Eve, after setting out from his home town Veliky Ustyug.

Talking to RIA Novosti, officials at the press center of the Vologda region's mission to the Russian Federation's President and Government said this tour will begin today, December 20.

The main holiday-season miracle-maker will set out from his fiefdom, which is located 15 km from Veliky Ustyug, subsequently congratulating his fellow Russians. Father Frost will get a magic point for his stick during the Equinox festival, thus becoming able to light all fir-tree lamps; moreover, he will receive his instructions for the long trip that lies ahead.

Father Frost is to visit Totma, Vologda, Cherepovets, Kostroma, Nizhny Novgorod, St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad, eventually arriving in Moscow December 27. He will be welcomed in the Russian capital by Mayor Yuri Luzhkov on the city's Tverskaya street. Father Frost will congratulate the people of Russia on New Year's Eve, subsequently organizing the presidential fir-tree party in the Kremlin.

Festive performances and concerts will be held in all cities, where Father Frost is headed. Father Frost will visit local orphanages and boarding schools, also receiving messages to Russia's children from youngsters, the press center reported.