Minsk is famous for its parks and gardens. There is something for everyone to see and to do in Minsk. We offer you some tips on the city’s biggest attractions and the most exciting places.
This tradition, common across eastern and Russian lands, has pagan roots and was a time for waking mother earth from her winterly slumber. Similar to other international festivities such as Mardi Gras or Shrove Tuesday, Maslenitsa takes place during the last week before Lent as is a time for feasting on eggs and butter - and that usually means pancakes!
With the discontinuation of the Minsk Blues festival, Minsk Jazz is the central jazz event for lovers of the genre as is organized annually by the National Academy Concert Orchestra of Belarus. The three-day festival covers many different styles of the genre, previously honouring jazz artists from Lithuania as "Jazz Musicians of the Year".
Taking place at the Belarusian State Philharmonic each March, the Minsk Spring is one of the largest classical music festivals of the year. Inviting international soloists to its three halls, the Philharmonic performs music from a wide variety of composers.
Tens of thousands of soldiers and hundreds of military vehicles ride through the streets of Minsk in a truly awe-inspiring display of military pride on Victory Day (9 May), marking the capitulation of Nazi Germany to Soviet Russia.
Crowds head to the streets on Minsk City Day with free performances abound and a fireworks to display to finish things off. One of the biggest public celebrations of the year. (Early September)
The Belarusian equivalent of Santa Claus, St. Nick, or Father Christmas, is joined by his wintery female companions for this costumed gala through the streets of Minsk. The parade usually starts at the Sports Palace and heads to Oktyabrskaya Square along Podeditelei Avenue. Christmas Day (25 December - morning).