New Year's in Russia

In Russia, Santa Claus is known as Father Frost. He is usually illustrated with his granddaughter, the snow maiden, Snegurochka riding with an evergreen tree and presents in a traditional Russian troika - something like a sleigh. The banner reads, "Happy New Year!"
That is right - Father Frost comes at New Year's - It is different!

Last night a small group of us gathered (Canadian, American, Australian, Taiwanese and Russians)to being in the New Year together. We enjoyed some good food, conversation and a movie...
At about 5 to midnight we turned on the TV and watched the President's address to the nation and the national anthem. As we were watching the national anthem I started to hear the fireworks... I had been told there would be a lot but when you hear and then when you see it, it is completely different! It sounded like thunder and or gun shots coming from every direction. I looked outside and saw the whole sky lit up. I went outside to have a better look and could turn in a 360 degree circle and see fireworks everywhere! It kept going... and going and going... I was shocked at how long it lasted. Only about 30 minutes later was it really getting quieter... the popcorn and thunder was less often of not stopped.
Anyone can buy fireworks here - so different then Canada! Everyone sets them off, it is almost scary for me as I grew up learning that fireworks are dangerous and to me I only saw the firemen setting them off in my town. Russia has taught me different... and next year I really want to try and get some fireworks so we can actively join the party that way!!