“Novy god,” or New Year, is a long awaited holiday in many Russian-speaking communities. It’s a celebration of family, food and new beginnings. Novy god has remained deeply rooted in the cultures of Russian-speaking diasporas across the globe — regardless of native language, ethnicity or religion.
There are two important parts to the celebration of Novy god: the exchange of gifts and communal meals. The shared tradition of giving brings people together around the "yolka,” a decorated spruce tree. Presents are received from family, friends, and the mythical figures of “Ded Moroz,” Grandfather Frost, and his granddaughter, “Snegurochka,” the Snow Maiden.
Often the smell of juicy tangerines creates a New Year's mood. The dinner table becomes a canvas of traditional regional delicacies and iconic recipes like “Salat Olivier,” a salad made with potatoes and other ingredients. Families and friends, from toddlers to grandparents, stay up until midnight to wish each other “S Novym godom, s novym schastyem!“ or With a New Year, a new happiness!
Feasting around the table until the early morning, they sing songs and share stories passed down from generation to generation. Novy god is a hope for a better year than the previous one. It's saying goodbye to the old year, with all its good and bad. It’s a time for reflection, being present and getting ready for the new year ahead.
Whether you grew up dancing around the yolka in your homeland or rediscovered Novy god recently, this holiday promises a time of renewal. This celebration is filled with positive emotions, togetherness and unforgettable enjoyment.
For the past 20 years, Multnomah County Library’s Russian-speaking staff has lovingly and enthusiastically organized celebrations of Novy god. It continues to be a way for multiple generations of Russian-speaking families to connect to their culture and each other.
Celebrate Novy god with us at a special event on January 11, 2026* at Gresham Library from 12:30 to 4 pm. All ages are welcome.
*In the event of library closures due to inclement weather, the celebration will be rescheduled for January 18, 2026, from 12:30 to 4 pm. Stay updated on our website multcolib.org/ru.