Festive Almaty prepares to welcome the New Year

Photo by Nikolai Marchenko, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

New Year, one of the most anticipated holidays in many countries is just around the corner. Kazakhstan’s largest city, Almaty, is preparing for traditional public celebrations with open-air concerts and festive activities.

Photo by Nikolai Marchenko, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

The main location for tourists and residents to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere and welcome the New Year is Astana Square. It is located near the Kazakh-British Technical University and traditionally serves as a venue for major holiday events and concerts. The area features a Western-style New Year market inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, offering hot food and drinks, with tornado potatoes being the most popular snack, as well as a variety of souvenirs, including handmade items. The university building is illuminated in golden light and accompanied by a tall, brightly decorated Christmas tree. The main concert starts at 6 p.m. and continues until the New Year arrives, culminating in a fireworks display.

Photo by Nikolai Marchenko, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

Moving from the square to Almaty’s main pedestrian street, Panfilov Street, visitors will find it just as vibrantly decorated. This year, however, attention is drawn to unusual small Christmas trees made from unexpected materials such as old snowboards and empty energy drink cans, CDs and plush toys. There is also an illuminated arch wishing a Happy New Year in Kazakh, English and Russian, which periodically changes its pattern to display the flag of Kazakhstan.

Photo by Nikolai Marchenko, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

Another popular spot to enjoy the New Year atmosphere is the square near the Republic Palace, which offers bright lights and a larger New Year market. Visitors can also take photos with entertainers dressed as Ayaz Ata, also known as Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost), a winter folklore figure who brings gifts to children who have behaved well during the year. Nearby, a skating rink adds to the festive spirit, with a Christmas tree standing at its center.

Photo by Nikolai Marchenko, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

Neighborhoods beyond the city center are, understandably, less flamboyant, yet they are still attractively decorated with illuminated holiday symbols. These decorations invite residents to take photos, lift their spirits and share the joy of the season.