Ded Moroz traditionally travels with Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden, in Russian folklore.
Ded Moroz means “Grandfather Frost” in Russian. He is a winter gift-bringer who developed from Slavic and Russian winter traditions and was later adapted into a New Year celebration figure. Snegurochka, his granddaughter or companion in modern accounts, accompanies him during festive appearances.
Ded Moroz differs from the Western Santa Claus in several recognizable ways. He is usually shown wearing a long coat, often blue or red, and carrying a magical staff. In Russian tradition he commonly delivers gifts at New Year rather than on Christmas Eve, reflecting the importance of New Year celebrations during the Soviet period and afterward.
The character should not be confused with Jack Frost, an English-language personification of winter. Ded Moroz is a named cultural figure with a developed story, costume, and companion.