Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –
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The Russian government continues its systematic work to transform public spaces as part of the "Infrastructure for Life" national project. These spaces in large cities and small towns are becoming venues for mass celebrations during the New Year and Christmas holidays, announced Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
"The first year of the national project 'Infrastructure for Life' is yielding concrete results. Since January, over 7,000 areas across Russia have been improved, including over 5,100 public spaces and approximately 2,000 courtyards. Since 2019, this represents a total of over 80,000 areas. The work on the All-Russian Competition for the Best Projects for Creating a Comfortable Urban Environment is particularly noteworthy. This year, 294 projects won the competition. Also, approximately 200 winning projects were implemented this year. This work is aimed at creating a favorable living and recreational environment for Russians. Today, these parks, squares, and plazas are becoming the focal points of New Year's celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the country," said Marat Khusnullin.
For example, in Zavodoukovsk, Tyumen Oblast, the Central Square was renovated. Santa Claus's residence, a food court, and a fountain square were set up for New Year's celebrations. The space was equipped with heated relaxation areas, outdoor play areas, and a light and music fountain.
Another example: in the city of Chapayevsk in the Samara Region, a park near the Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh was landscaped. Multifunctional areas for all ages were created within the grounds: a library pavilion, a café area, an apothecary garden, a playground, and an amphitheater. Cozy corners with benches, flower beds, and a pine garden were created for quiet relaxation.
An "Arts Square" has been created in Gvardeysk, Kaliningrad Oblast. Festive events are planned there, including an interactive area featuring Father Frost and a Christmas concert, "The Light of Christmas," complete with folk festivities and round dances.
Winter parks have been developed in the Moscow region. Forty-seven artificial ice rinks, 60 Father Frost residences, and 74 cozy fireplaces have opened for recreation. Ice shows and the Crystal Ice figure skating festival will begin in January.
In Izhevsk, Udmurt Republic, the Central Square was reconstructed. Amphitheaters, terraces, and a unified lighting and bench design were added. The square has become the city's main venue for large-scale events, such as the "World Pelmeni Day" gastronomic festival.
"New Year is a beloved family holiday, bringing people together for generations around the festive tree and New Year's table. It's a time when people take to the streets to experience the magic of the New Year together, stroll through parks and squares, enjoy winter activities, watch street performances, and socialize in a cozy atmosphere. Therefore, it's important that modern, beautiful, and safe spaces be created for citizens across the country—those very same points of attraction that create a festive mood. This is precisely the goal of the All-Russian competition for the best projects for creating a comfortable urban environment, held by the Ministry of Construction of Russia as part of the federal project "Creating a Comfortable Urban Environment." Renovated public spaces with interconnected pedestrian routes, developed infrastructure and services, energy-efficient lighting, unique architectural design, and vibrant aesthetics become focal points and create a true New Year's miracle for millions of Russians," said Minister of Construction, Housing and Utilities Irek Fayzullin.
Residents themselves actively participate in selecting sites for transformation. In 2025, more than 16.6 million Russians and 170,000 beautification volunteers participated in the nationwide online vote. Based on the results, 5,000 sites in 1,600 municipalities across 88 Russian regions were selected.
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