Imagine a summer evening by the river. The air smells of herbs and flowers, folk songs ring out, girls weave wreaths, circle dances swirl around, and as dusk falls, a Kupala bonfire is lit...
On July 11th, we invite you to the amazing village of Mandrogi for the Ivan Kupala festival—one of the most beautiful and beloved folk festivals, filled with music, ancient traditions, and the true atmosphere of a Russian summer.
There will be no random scenery or staged stories here. Everything is real: live songs, sincere emotions, ancient rituals, and the amazing sense of unity that arises when people gather around the fire.
Festival Program
12:30 PM — Ataman Cossack Ensemble and Folk Festivities
Guests can expect lively songs, folk dances, fun contests, traditional games, and, of course, large Kupala circle dances. Don't worry if you've never danced a circle before or don't know any folk songs—everyone will be happy to learn. The most important thing is a good mood and a desire to be part of the celebration.
Craft and themed workshops all day long
Try your hand at traditional crafts, create a souvenir yourself, learn about Russian customs, and find a fun activity for the whole family. Mandrogi is a place where you can not only see traditions but also experience them firsthand.
7:30 PM — Live Music Evening at Gostiny Dvor Restaurant
When the summer day begins to give way to a warm evening, the celebration will continue at Gostiny Dvor Restaurant. Live music and Russian cuisine will be the perfect ending to a busy day and prepare guests for the main event of Ivan Kupala Night.
9:30 PM — Weaving Kupala Wreaths
Create your own wreath from fragrant summer herbs and flowers, learn about the ancient traditions of the holiday, and prepare for one of the most beautiful rites of Ivan Kupala. After all, it is the wreath that will be your companion on this magical evening.
10:00 PM — Kupala Night
When the sun sets behind the horizon, it's time to celebrate ancient traditions. Together, we will dance around the fire, make wishes, jump over the fire, and release our wreaths into the water, admiring the reflection of the lights on the evening surface of the river. This is the very moment for which many guests return to Mandrogi again and again. A moment when time seems to slow down, and summer becomes especially warm, heartfelt, and genuine.
Spend this day with family and friends.
Ivan Kupala in Mandrogi is more than just a festive program. It's an opportunity to forget the hustle and bustle of the city, spend time with loved ones, connect with living traditions, and cherish the memories of a true Russian summer. Bring your whole family, invite your friends, weave wreaths, sing songs, dance in circles, and celebrate Kupala Night with us.
Russian traditions, live music, folk festivities, and the magic of Kupala Night await you!