St. Petersburg's White Nights Festival

The phenomenon which occurs after the long months of cold and darkness, when the summer emerges and the daylight is seen round the clock is called White Nights. St. Petersburg, the world's most northern city with a population over 1 million, stands at such a high latitude (59 degree 57` N) that the sun does not descend below the horizon enough for the sky to go dark. In fact the nights become so indistinguishable from the day that the authorities never need to turn on the city's streetlights. This is not a unique phenomenon to St. Petersburg, but no other northern city welcome the summer months with such a lively and artistic celebration.

The breathtaking city of St. Petersburg was constructed on some 100 islands formed by rivers, creeks, streams and natural canals that flow into the Baltic sea at the mouth of Neva River. The historic center of St. Petersburg is listed in UNESCO world heritage and the city boosts some of the beautiful museums, palaces, monasteries, cathedrals and bridges. The White Nights Festival is a stunning celebration of culture and life that is a must-see for any travel enthusiast. 
Photo Credits: lightstalkers.org
The festival is kicked off with the classical ballet, opera and orchestral performance, "Stars of the White Nights" at the world famous Mariinsky Theatre. During the festival, there are daily evening performances featuring some of the biggest names in the arts world. 

There are also carnivals to delight both the children and adults. The largest carnival is held in the suburb of Peterhof (45 mins train journey from St. Petersburg) where the historical figures and events are reinterpreted by costumed actors. Carnivals at the Catherine Palace and Pavlovsk suburb are also highly artistic. For music lovers, St. Petersburg's Palace Square becomes home to some of the international music world's biggest stars during the festival.

The culminating event of the festival is the Scarlet Sails celebration, which is a massive event to celebrate the end of the school year that is known for its spectacular fireworks display and a water show that features boats full of pirates battling on the Neva River. Musical acts and motorboat rowing races are also highlights of the celebration.
Photo-credits: travelin-russia.com
Tips:
1. St. Petersburg is busiest during the White Nights festival. Hence, book your tickets early.
2. For opera, ballet performance purchase the tickets online in advance http://www.mariinsky.ru/en/    
3. During the period, many bridges across Neva river are raised at night to let the ships pass, a spectacle you dont want to miss.

1 Responses to "St. Petersburg's White Nights Festival"

  1. Anonymous says:

    Very Romantic Place. Passport Appointment Booking

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