By decree of December 30, 1699, Peter I ordered that the main streets, as well as the houses of the nobility, be decorated with coniferous trees and branches, and the rest of the inhabitants of the capital – to put “a tree or a branch over the gate or over their mansion.” For the sample, it was proposed to use spruces installed in Gostiny Dvor. The tsar adopted this custom from the Europeans who lived in the German Quarter.

The townspeople had to congratulate each other, burn bonfires in the streets, shoot guns and muskets, launch rockets. On Red Square, where the main celebration took place, fireworks, cannon and rifle salutes were organized by decree of the tsar. The New Year’s holiday lasted seven days.

Happy holidays! Be healthy and happy!

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