The third New Movement young film festival: a new look and an extensive program
From May 28 to June 1, Veliky Novgorod will once again become a magnet for film lovers. This year, the New Movement festival is presented in a refreshed form, with a new visual concept (arrows as a symbol of movement) and fresh ideas. Guests can look forward to Russian film premieres, creative meetings, lectures, and master classes with celebrity guests. A special educational program is also available for young viewers.
During the festival, you can see films for every taste and age, and interact with directors and film critics. Artem Mikhalkov and Maxim Korolev remain the festival’s general producers.
Unchangeable treasures: the Kremlin, St. Sophia Cathedral, and Vitoslavlitsy
It’s impossible to leave Veliky Novgorod without visiting its heart — the Novgorod Kremlin (Detinets). The first fortifications appeared here in the 11th century, and the Kremlin itself, which can be seen today, was built by the 17th century. Admission to the grounds is free from 6 a.m. until midnight. You’ll see St. Sophia Cathedral, the oldest Orthodox church and one of the oldest stone buildings in Russia, the Bishop’s Chamber, and other historic Kremlin structures. And from the walls, a panorama of the Volkhov River opens up—a real postcard.
If you’re looking for a deeper dive into handcrafted art, check out the permanent exhibitions at the Novgorod Museum-Reserve (the Government Offices building and the Faceted Chamber). Unique examples of ancient Russian painting await you there—icons, wooden sculptures, as well as ancient relics and amazing examples by master artists of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Just nearby, a 15-minute drive away, is the Vitoslavlitsy Museum of Folk Wooden Architecture. This museum evokes a village street, with authentic huts, chapels, and churches from the 17th to 19th centuries displayed outdoors. Here you can visit an old house, learn about peasant life, view the interactive exhibition “Farm Yard,” and even participate in master classes. A walk through Vitoslavlitsy transports you to a fairy tale where good always triumphs over evil, and life flows in the rhythm of nature.
Exhibition “Peredvizhniki 2.0” at the Museum of Fine Arts
Since May 8, the Museum of Fine Arts of the Novgorod Museum-Reserve has been hosting the project “Peredvizhniki 2.0”. The exhibition is dedicated to the late stage of the Society of Traveling Art Exhibitions – the late 19th – early 20th centuries. This is the time when Russian realistic art reached its peak, and the Peredvizhniki became not just artists, but the voice of the era. You will see the works of the masters who have formed a tradition that is understandable and close to everyone.
Active recreation: the “ZaBeg.RF” half marathon and the “Ilmera 222” cycling race
For those who cannot imagine a weekend without activity, May 23rd will be a day of sporting achievements. The All-Russian “ZaBeg.RF” half marathon will take place along a unique route through the oldest part of the city and the picturesque banks of the Volkhov River. The Novgorod Kremlin and nearby architectural monuments will provide an impressive backdrop for the race. Distances range from 1 km to a half marathon, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced runners.
And for cyclists, there’s the exclusive “Ilmera 222” competition: a 200+ km brevet around Lake Ilmen. The route combines asphalt and dirt roads, testing not only speed but also endurance. Both events take place on the same day, so you can participate or simply be inspired by the spirit of healthy competition.
Gastronomy: the Geography restaurant as part of a journey
You can start a busy day in Veliky Novgorod no less brightly and deliciously. The Geography restaurant is located in the very heart of the city (2 Gazon Street). Its windows offer a magnificent view of the Novgorod Kremlin, and a cozy summer veranda is open throughout the day.
The Geography menu is a true gastronomic journey: from Russian shchi made from crumbs to Italian pasta. It is equally good after a long walk and for a leisurely dinner with friends. The restaurant is rightfully considered one of the city’s main points of attraction – a place where you can discuss the day’s events, share impressions and just have a good time over delicious food.
Summer addition: summer city festivals
If you stay in Veliky Novgorod until June, even more events await you: on June 1, the governor’s project “Novgorod Summer” starts – more than 50 free events at 40 venues every weekend. From June 7 to 14 – the creative industries fair “Novgorod Torg” at Yaroslav’s Court and the enogastronomic festival “Grapes”. And from June 11 to 14 – the book festival “Chronicle of the Novgorod Summer. Book Festival.”
