Russia is the largest country in the world. One fourth of Russian territory lies in Europe and the other part lies in Asia. It is a land of snow and deadly winters, but also of rivers that meander across meadows and a midsummer sun that never sets. It also has the vast landscapes, vibrant life, beautiful contrasts, and interesting people. Russian people love to party and are mostly generous and hospitable. The country is popular for growing and harvesting their own crops. It achieved its independence in 24 August 1991 from Soviet Union.

The events held in the country are Music Spring festival, White Nights festival, a film festival and Russian Winter Festival. Music Spring Festival is celebrated in April. It is an international classical music festival. White Nights festival is held in June and is a time for general merrymaking.

A film festival is held in autumn in odd-numbered years. From late December to early January, Russian Winter Festival is held. This festival is celebrated with folklore shows and vodka. The other celebrations include New Year, Easter and Christmas. The major attractions of the country are Moscow, Novgorod, Sochi and St. Peterburg. Moscow, the capital of the country has ancient monasteries and ultra-modern monoliths. Novgorod used to be the country’s pioneering artistic and political center. The attraction of the city are Byzantine Cathedral of St Sophia, the Millennium of Russia Monument, the icon-filled Chamber of Facets and the research-based Museum of History & Art. Sochi is a beautiful town of gardens with waterfalls, hilltop views and spa towns.

St Petersburg is a wonderful city with literacy heritage, imperial luxuries and artistic gifts. Russian cuisine includes Zavtrak - breakfast, Obed - lunch and Uzhin - supper. Zavtrak includes open sandwich with cheese, ham or salami with a cup of tea. Obed is the main meal of the day. It starts with a small zakuska - salt herring or some king of salad and is followed by soup that is made from a homemade stock. The favourite soups are cabbage soup, Shchi and Ukrainian beetroot soup called Borshch. After soup the main course follows. Fish is a popular food of Russians. The main course is served with potatoes, pasta, cereal, salt cucumbers and are always served with bread. Obed is finished with either coffee, tea, kompot - stewed fruit or kisel fruit juice thickened with cornflour. Uzhin is the meal eaten with the family around the table and news is exchanged. The main course can be from vegetables like potato cakes with mushroom sauce, cottage cheese and is followed by tea or milk.