Best time to go to Russia 

There is a very popular, but somewhat unfair, joke that there is no summer in Russia, just nine months of expectations and three months of disappointment.

The best time to come to Russia is during the summer when days are generally warm, sunny and ideal for sightseeing. The end of May and beginning of June is a very special time in St. Petersburg, with “white nights” when it practically never gets dark.

Winter time has its charm too. Cold Russian winters are known all around the world, but in recent years the temperature has rarely gone below -5°C in Moscow and St. Petersburg. A famous Russian fur hat will keep the head warm and shot of vodka will warm you from the inside whilst you admire the palaces and onion-domed churches glittering with snow and icicles.

Events

Stars of the White Nights Festival

25 May - 15 July 2012 (annual)
St Petersburg
Each year the acclaimed ballet and opera company of the Mariinsky Theatre performs to a specific theme during this special summer time.

Summer Ballet Festival

13th June - 28th July 2012 (annual)
Moscow
The Summer Ballet Festival offers a 2-month long repertoire, featuring classical music enhanced with a pinch of modern choreography. 

International Military Music Festival

1st - 8th September 2012 (annual)
Moscow
From the end of August to the start of September, thousands of visitors will see the Red Square in Moscow transformed into a festival of Music. Participants of the International Military Music Festival "Spasskaya Tower" will include the State Honor Guards, leading Russian & foreign military music bands and creative cultural groups. The Red Square alone is expected to have spectators exceeding 7,000.

Kremlin Cup

13th - 21st October 2012 (annual)
Moscow
The Kremlin Cup, which is Russia's biggest tennis tournament, lures the thirty-two players competing in the singles event and 16 pairs in the doubles with US$2.34 million in prize money.