The onset of winter in Kyiv brings Christmas magic. The largest number of New Year and fairy-tale attractions is of course concentrated at VDNH. In the new season of “Winter Country” numerous interesting locations have been prepared. We will tell you about 9 places worth visiting.
Illuminarium Light Park
Where to find it: near the Charm Greenhouse
Source: Ukrainian It
Working Hours: Daily 16:00 – 22:00
Price: 250 – 800 UAH; children under 7 years, persons with disabilities, military personnel – free of charge.
Illuminarium is an area with light sculptures and installations. Visitors can expect about 200 impressive installations. Among them are fairy-tale animals, mythical creatures, abstract forms, and magical trees.
The main attractions include a Golden Wheat Field, a 14-meter hat, a 20-meter tunnel, huge light bugs, and the Central Light Christmas Tree. Between the main areas, you can see light arches and garlands.
Additional activities such as food courts, relaxation zones, animators, face painting, and QR code quests are also available.
Park of Giant Wonder Animals
Where to find it: to the left of the central entrance
Working Hours: 12:00 – 21:00
Price: 160 UAH; 50% for persons with disabilities, combatants and their families, children under 3 years – free of charge.
This is a new winter location that has become part of the "Winter Country". Incredible light creatures are located over an area of 1.5 hectares. The main character is Mr. Rat, who guides visitors through this incredible location.
The park also offers:
- large photo zones with light creatures;
- themed swings;
- a huge New Year decoration that you can enter for photos.
The park's atmosphere is suitable for family walks, romantic dates, or having fun with friends.
Extreme Attractions
Where to find: opposite Pavilion No. 6 and No. 4
Opening Hours: Weekdays: 12:00 – 22:00
Weekends: 10:00 – 22:00
Price: 150 - 300 UAH (discounts available at the ticket offices).
“Winter Country” delights with active entertainment. Its extreme attractions can not only lift your spirits but also provide energy and adrenaline. The attractions entertain both adults and children. Here you will find dynamic carousels and rides that will test your endurance. This is the perfect place to relax on a cold day and feel true freedom.
Glühwein, music, and lanterns will enhance the atmosphere. You would want to stay here for a long time and try every attraction.
Shumiland
Where to find: in the forest, behind Pavilion No. 1
Working Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Price: 150 – 250 UAH
The space operates year-round, but during winter it becomes part of the overall New Year festivities. The area spans several hectares where themed activities take place, including entertainment from animators and an overall festive atmosphere.
You can see moving dinosaur figures, fairy-tale topiaries, and a mirror maze. Additionally, themed characters are present, there is a food court for relaxation and tasty breaks, and a stage where performances or themed shows take place.
Snow Sandbox
Where to find: behind Pavilion No. 1
Working Hours: 10:00 – 21:00
Price: free entry
Snow will lie here regardless of the weather or season. In this sandbox, you can build a snowman, make a “snow angel” or even have snowball fights. Snow decorations adorn the market stalls and the roofs of pavilions.
The zone operates year-round, but during the New Year holidays, it becomes especially relevant.
Holiday Performances by Snowmen
Where to find: near the Christmas tree
Working Hours: 12:00 – 18:00
Price: free entry
On the central square of VDNH by the Christmas tree, an animation program featuring snowmen and fairy-tale characters will take place. This event can be seen on weekends and holidays from 12:00 to 18:00. The snowmen’s fun program starts every hour during this time, so everyone will have the opportunity to see it.
During the show, the snowmen will interact with the audience, inviting children to participate and creating a joyful atmosphere.
Ice Rink
Where to find: central square
Working Hours: weekdays: 12:00 – 22:00, weekends 10:00 – 22:00
Price: 450 UAH, for UBD, persons with disabilities, orphaned children – 300 UAH, children under 4 years – free.
This ice rink covers an area of 2500 m², making it one of the largest in Ukraine. A clock mechanism will be installed at its center, and next to it will be a New Year train, which is one of the most popular photo zones.
New Winter Photo Zones at VDNH
For those who wish to not only enjoy wonderful emotions but also capture fun moments, “Winter Country” has prepared new fantastic photo zones:
- a light photo zone at the central entrance and a "light passage";
- a clock installation on the Expo Center pavilion;
- a New Year train;
- a photo zone in the "Charm Greenhouse";
- a light installation Illuminarium.
This way, one can create an entire album of unforgettable memories.
Santa's Residence
Where to find: Pavilion No. 1
Working Hours: 10:00; 11:15, 12:30, 13:45, 15:00, 16:15, 17:30, 18:45. Duration of the show – 45 minutes.
Price: from 440 to 550 UAH (discounts: groups of 10 or more – 10%, UBD, persons with disabilities, large families – 20%, children under 3 years – free)
One of the most beloved locations is Santa's Residence. Here everyone has the opportunity to meet Santa and his magical helpers – elves. This New Year season, the fairy tale will be located in Pavilion No. 1.
This space will occupy over 1000 m² and will become a true interactive environment. There will be a magical forest with enchanting creatures, elves, and music. There will also be a post office, so everyone can write their wishes to Santa.
