When you think of Russia, what comes to mind?
Perhaps it’s the majestic spires of the Kremlin, or the timeless ballet performances of the Bolshoi Theatre.
But Russian culture is so much more than its iconic landmarks. It’s in the everyday moments that you truly get to know this soulful country.
From the lively conversations over steaming bowls of borscht to the tranquil afternoons spent in the countryside dachas, Russian culture is an experience both grand and simple.
In this guide, let’s look beyond the stereotypes and discover the real Russia – a place of warm hospitality, profound artistic heritage, and enduring traditions.
Cultural Concepts in Russia
Toska
Toska is an emotion that defies simple translation. It’s a complex blend of melancholy, longing, and existential angst, painting a vivid picture of the Russian soul’s depth. This feeling embodies a profound sense of spiritual yearning, often without a clear cause.
The concept of toska has been a central theme in Russian literature, explored by the likes of Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, and Chekhov. Their characters often navigate through intense internal struggles, grappling with existential dilemmas and introspective questions, all under the shadow of toska.
It’s this emotional landscape that has defined much of the Russian literary canon, setting it apart in its introspection.
Toska also carries philosophical overtones, reflecting the Russian tendency towards deep philosophical inquiry. It’s often associated with a longing for something elusive, a yearning that can lead to both profound despair and enlightening insight.
This is not just a personal emotion but a reflection of the collective Russian experience, shaped by the nation’s tumultuous history, harsh climate, and profound social changes.
Sud'ba
Sud’ba, translating to “fate” in English, represents an acceptance of the inevitable course of life’s events and a philosophical understanding of one’s place in the world.
In Russian thought, sud’ba is often perceived as a powerful, sometimes mysterious force that shapes individual lives. Think of it as a predetermined path with a complex interplay of choice, chance, and destiny. This concept reflects a certain resignation to the circumstances beyond one’s control, intertwined with the belief that each person’s life journey has a purpose and meaning, even if it’s not immediately apparent.
This perspective encourages a certain stoicism and strength in facing life’s challenges, acknowledging that some things are simply meant to be, for reasons that might be beyond human understanding.
Understanding sud’ba in the context of Russian culture is to understand a key aspect of the Russian worldview. It’s about recognizing the blend of fatalism and hope, the acceptance of life’s twists and turns, and the enduring belief in the meaningfulness of one’s path, even in the face of adversity.
Pochuvstvovat' Rodinu
Sobornost
Sobornost originates from the Eastern Orthodox Church but extending far beyond religious boundaries. It encapsulates a sense of communal unity and spiritual togetherness, transcending the literal meaning of its root word “sobor”, which stands for “assembly”.
In Russian philosophy, Sobornost pertains to the collective spirit and moral unity of a group.
This concept is integral to understanding the Russian ethos, which often prioritizes the collective over the individual. It’s about mutual responsibility, shared values, and a common purpose that binds people together.
Sobornost, therefore, is a lived experience, a part of the daily social fabric, shaping how Russians interact with each other and perceive their role in society. It reflects a deep-seated cultural preference for unity, solidarity, and the pursuit of shared goals and values.
What is the Religion in Russia?
What are the Traditions in Russia?
Russian Folklore
The world of Russian fairy tales is filled with magical creatures, heroic deeds, and moral lessons. Characters like Baba Yaga, the witch who dwells in a hut on chicken legs, Ivan Tsarevich, the noble prince, the mystical Firebird, and the fearsome Koschei the Deathless. These stories, passed down through generations, are more than just bedtime tales for children; they are a repository of wisdom and cultural heritage.
The artistic expressions of folklore are evident in Russian crafts. The Matryoshka dolls, with their nested figures, the intricate patterns of Khokhloma painting, and the distinctive blue and white of Gzhel ceramics, are all steeped in folkloric tradition.
Dacha
The tradition of dachas dates back to the time of Peter the Great, but it was during the Soviet era that they became widespread.
Dachas, literally meaning “country house“, were allocated to families, especially those living in urban areas, as a form of respite. Over time, these modest plots of land with simple structures evolved into cherished family retreats.
It’s common to see long, leisurely meals, conversations stretching into the night, and children playing in the open air.
Banya
The banya involves alternating between hot steam rooms and cold plunges. The steam room, typically heated with wood and reaching high temperatures, is filled with steam generated by throwing water on hot stones. This is followed by a cold water dip, which is believed to stimulate circulation and invigorate the body.
An essential part of the banya ritual involves the use of veniks—bundles of leafy twigs, usually from birch or oak trees. The veniks are soaked in water and then used to lightly whip the skin in the steam room. This practice is thought to improve circulation, open pores, and enhance the detoxifying process.
The banya also holds a special place in Russian folklore, symbolizing purification and renewal. It’s seen as a space where one can not only cleanse the body but also clear the mind and soul.
Russian Traditional Dance
One of the most iconic Russian dances is the Kalinka, known for its lively tempo and increasing speed. It often involves a chorus line of dancers, with the lead dancer performing high kicks and squatting steps.
Yablochko, or “Little Apple,” is a traditional Russian folk dance known for its lively and spirited nature. Originating from the Russian Navy, it features characteristic high kicks, squatting, and heel-toe movements, often performed to balalaika or accordion music. Here’s an amazing video showcasing this dance.
The Barynya, a traditional Russian folk dance, combines a sequence of high-energy movements with more lyrical, slower-paced parts. It’s known for its dynamic contrast, featuring a combination of stomping feet and elegant gestures.
Russian Traditional Music
Traditional Russian folk music is characterized by its melodic simplicity and depth of emotion. Folk songs often tell stories of everyday life, historical events, and the natural world, echoing the joys, sorrows, and soul of the Russian people. These songs range from lyrical ballads and love songs to vibrant dances and epic tales.
Who can forget the balalaika? A triangular stringed instrument and perhaps the most iconic. The domra, another stringed instrument, is similar to the balalaika but with a rounded body. Both instruments are staples in folk music ensembles and are known for their distinctive, resonant sound.
Chastushka is a traditional Russian form of folk poetry, characterized by its short, rhymed verses, often humorous, satirical, or ironic in nature. Typically composed of four lines, chastushkas are known for their simplicity, wit, and rhythm, making them easy to remember and recite. They are often sung and are a popular form of entertainment and self-expression.
Another key instrument is the bayan, a type of accordion that is central to much of Russian folk music. Its rich tones and versatility make it suitable for a range of musical styles, from slow, lyrical pieces to fast-paced dance tunes.
What to Eat in Russia
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Ukha: A clear Russian soup, traditionally made with fresh river fish like pike or perch. Ukha is a light yet flavorful broth, often containing root vegetables and herbs. It’s traditionally cooked by adding one small cup of vodka and then submerging on a wooden ember!
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Shaurma: Though originally from the Middle East, shaurma has become a popular fast food option in Russia. It consists of meat, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, that is grilled on a vertical rotisserie and then thinly sliced. The meat is wrapped in a flatbread, like a lavash or pita, and typically served with vegetables, sauces, and sometimes fries.
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Kasha: Kasha is a staple in Russian cuisine and refers to any grain-based porridge. It can be made from various cereals, including buckwheat (grechka), millet, barley, or oats. Kasha is incredibly versatile, serving as a breakfast dish, a side, or even a main course. It can be sweet, often cooked with milk and sugar, or savory, prepared with butter, salt, and sometimes mixed with vegetables or meat.
What is Russian Language like?
The Russian language belongs to the East Slavic group of Slavic languages.
Russian is written in the Cyrillic alphabet, developed in the 9th century, which consists of 33 letters, both capital and lowercase. The sounds and pronunciation in Russian can be challenging for learners, characterized by hard and soft consonant sounds and the distinctive rolling “r”s. These nuances in pronunciation can significantly alter the meaning of words.
The grammar of Russian is known for its complexity, featuring gender distinctions in nouns, an intricate system of six cases, and aspect in verbs to indicate action completion. Verbs in Russian conjugate according to tense, person, and number, and the language lacks auxiliary verbs for tense formation, unlike English.
Useful Russian Phrases for Travel
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Russian
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English
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Zdravstvuyte
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Hello
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Do svidaniya
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Goodbye
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Pozhaluysta
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Please
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Spasibo
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Thank You
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Da
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Yes
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Nyet
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No
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Izvinite
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Excuse Me
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Ya ne ponimayu
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I Don't Understand
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Vy govorite po-angliyski?
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Do You Speak English?
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Gde tualet?
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Where is the Bathroom?
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Pomogite!
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Help!
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Schyot, pozhaluysta
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The check, please
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Traditional Festivals in Russia
New Year (Novy God)
The most widely celebrated holiday in Russia, New Year’s festivities kick off on December 31st and can extend up to January 10th. It’s marked by grand fireworks, festive meals, and the decorating of New Year trees.
Ded Moroz, or Father Frost, and his granddaughter Snegurochka, The Snow Maiden, are central figures in Russia’s New Year celebrations.
Ded Moroz, evolving from ancient Slavic mythology, has transformed over centuries from a feared winter wizard into a beloved gift-giver akin to Santa Claus. He is typically depicted as a tall, stately figure with a flowing white beard, donning a fur-coated robe, often in vibrant red or blue, and a semi-round fur hat. Contrasting Santa Claus, Ded Moroz is known to carry a magical staff and travels in a traditional Russian sleigh pulled by three horses, known as a troika, instead of reindeer.
His role during the New Year is to bring gifts to children, a task he often shares with Snegurochka. Ded Moroz is also seen as a personification of winter itself, controlling the frost and embodying the spirit of the season.
Snegurochka, with her origins in Russian fairy tales, is portrayed as a youthful and beautiful maiden, dressed in shimmering silver or light blue (imagine Elsa from Frozen!), often adorned with frosty motifs. Her character is said to have been made of snow, symbolizing the beauty and purity of the Russian winter.
Orthodox Christmas (Rozhdestvo)
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar.
The celebration begins on Christmas Eve, January 6th, with “Sochelnik.” It’s a day of fasting, reminiscent of the vigil Mary and Joseph held before the birth of Jesus. Families gather in the evening for the “Holy Supper,” a meal that traditionally includes twelve dishes symbolizing the Twelve Apostles.
These dishes are usually meatless, featuring items like kutya (a sweet grain pudding).
As night falls, churches across Russia hold Christmas Eve services, culminating in the Divine Liturgy of the Nativity. The Patriarch of Moscow often leads the service in the main cathedral, broadcasted to millions across the country.
Rozhdestvo extends beyond January 7th, leading up to the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus on January 19th, known as Epiphany.
Pancake Week (Maslenitsa)
Maslenitsa, also known as Pancake Week or Butter Week, is a traditional Russian festival that heralds the end of winter and the anticipation of spring. Celebrated during the last week before the start of the Orthodox Lent, Maslenitsa is one of the most cheerful and beloved holidays in Russia!
Originating from both pagan and Christian traditions, the central symbol of Maslenitsa is the pancake, or “blini”, which, with its round, golden form, represents the sun. Blini are made in abundance during this week and are enjoyed with various fillings and toppings, from honey and jam to caviar and sour cream.
A key tradition of Maslenitsa is the making of a straw effigy symbolizing winter. This effigy is paraded around and then burned in a bonfire, signifying the end of cold days and the victory of sun, warmth, and fertility.
Another important aspect of Maslenitsa is the tradition of asking for forgiveness. On the last day of the festival, known as “Forgiveness Sunday”, people ask family, friends, and acquaintances for forgiveness for any wrongs, thereby clearing the slate before entering the Lenten season.
May Week
The beginning of May in Russia ushers in a festive period, this time, often referred to as “May Week.”
As May unfolds, Labor Day is first celebrated on May 1st, and festivities continue until May 9th.
Victory Day is commemorated on May 9th and it marks the capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union in 1945, bringing an end to the Great Patriotic War or World War II as is referred to in Russia.
A central feature of Victory Day is the grand military parade in Moscow’s Red Square. This parade showcases the strength and discipline of the Russian military, with troops marching, military hardware on display, and aerial flyovers. While the parade is a display of military might, its primary purpose is to commemorate the victory and honor those who fought in the war.
One particularly tradition is the “Immortal Regiment” march, where people carry photographs of their relatives who participated in the war. This procession symbolizes the memory of each soldier living on through their descendants.
Ivan Kupala Day
Ivan Kupala Day, celebrated on the night of July 6th to 7th, is one of the most ancient holidays in Russian culture. Its origins are a blend of pagan rituals dating back to Slavic folklore and later Christian traditions. The holiday is associated with the summer solstice and has deep connections to nature and fertility.
Ivan Kupala Day is a celebration of the sun, water, and earth, symbolizing purification, fertility, and love. The name “Ivan Kupala” itself is derived from “Ivan” (John, in reference to John the Baptist) and “Kupala,” which is related to the Slavic word for bathing.
A key tradition of Ivan Kupala Day is the gathering of herbs and flowers. It’s believed that plants harvested on this night have special powers and can ward off evil spirits. Young women often weave wreaths from flowers and herbs, which play a significant role in the night’s rituals.
The most picturesque custom is the floating of wreaths. Girls set their flower wreaths adrift on rivers, sometimes placing a burning candle in the middle. The path of the wreath are thought to foretell the girl’s future, particularly in matters of love.
Another important ritual is jumping over bonfires, a practice dating back to pagan times. Couples holding hands leap over the flames, believing this act will purify them, bring good health, and test the strength of their relationship. The higher and cleaner the jump, the better the omen for their future.
Customs in Russia
The use of bread and salt (khleb-sol) is a traditional Russian greeting for guests, especially significant when welcoming someone for the first time. The bread symbolizes hospitality, while salt signifies long-lasting friendship and a life full of flavor.
A pause (prisest’ na dorozhku) before setting off on a trip, where family members sit together quietly is a particular custom. This pause is meant to bring good luck and ensure a safe journey.
When leaving a loved one’s home, it’s customary to gently tap the window. This gesture is a way to say goodbye and is often seen as a sign of affection.
A widespread belief in Russia that whistling indoors can lead to financial loss or “whistle away” wealth.
In formal communication, Russians use a person’s first name and patronymic (a name derived from their father’s first name) instead of the surname. This practice is a sign of respect in social interactions.
Keeping a special loaf of bread for guests is a traditional practice in many Russian households. It signifies the importance of guests and the readiness to offer the best hospitality.
Plan Your Trip to Russia | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
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Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
