Snegurochka traditionally accompanies Ded Moroz when he brings gifts in Russian New Year celebrations.
Snegurochka, whose name means “Snow Maiden,” is a female character from Russian folklore and literary tradition. In modern celebrations, she commonly appears as Ded Moroz’s granddaughter and assistant. Together, they visit children, lead festive activities, and distribute presents around the New Year holiday.
Ded Moroz means “Grandfather Frost.” Although he resembles Santa Claus in his role as a gift-bringer, the Russian figure is associated primarily with New Year celebrations rather than Christmas Eve. The pair became especially prominent in Soviet-era public celebrations, when New Year festivities served as the major secular winter holiday.
Snegurochka is sometimes confused with other winter figures, including the Snow Queen. They are different characters: Snegurochka is usually portrayed as a friendly helper, while the Snow Queen comes from Hans Christian Andersen’s literary fairy tale.