Mayor of Kyiv Vitaliy Klitschko took part in the lighting ceremony on the main Christmas tree on Sofia Square in Kyiv. He noted that already traditionally on St. Nicholas' Day, the capital starts New Year's celebrations and lights the country's main Christmas tree on the square in front of Sofia.
"We are starting to celebrate the year 2019. Yes, it was not easy - both for the country and for the capital. But, I am convinced, each of us had many pleasant moments and emotions," said Vitaliy Klitschko.
According to him, a lot of positive changes and implemented projects appeared this year in the capital.
"We built a real pearl of modern Kyiv - a pedestrian bridge from the Volodymyr Hill to the Arch of Friendship of Peoples. Many parks and squares have been renovated. The stairs from St. Andrew's Church to Artists' Alley were built. Schools, gardens, metropolitan roads and bridges were built and repaired. They started to build the subway on Vynogradar. We - all together - worked to implement these projects to make our city even more beautiful! So, I believe that they deserve gifts from St. Nicholas! I hope he came to everyone today?” - Vitaliy Klitschko addressed the people on the square.
The mayor also called on residents of Kyiv and guests of the capital to convey their greetings to the defenders of Ukraine, who today are defending the state in the east of the country.
"I would like to congratulate our defenders today! Those who will meet the New Year and Christmas with weapons in their hands, far from their homes and relatives. Protecting peace in the peaceful cities of Ukraine. We especially thank our heroes!" Vitaliy Klitschko stressed.
He wished everyone good mood, fulfillment of dreams and success in the new year.
"I wish our country - peace, unity, freedom and strength! And to each of you - health, kindness and love! Believe in yourself! Believe in Ukraine! Happy St. Nicholas Day, Happy New Year and Christmas!" said the mayor of the capital.
Together with Vitaliy Klitschko, Andrii Antonov, a third-grade student, took part in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony - the European silver medalist in jiu-jitsu. Andrei bought various New Year's gifts with part of his prize fund and donated them to charity.
The main thematic hero of the holiday on Sofia Square this year was chosen as the fairy-tale Nutcracker - as a symbol of the victory of good over evil.
"Four kingdoms" await guests for the holidays on the square: the first is the "Kingdom of Gifts", where you can buy traditional New Year's souvenirs and toys. The second is the "Kingdom of Taste" - a food court on the square itself and along Volodymyrsky Proezd. And two more kingdoms: the "Kingdom of Likes" - the most diverse photo zones, and the "Kingdom of Entertainment" - a fairy-tale zone for children with the "Polar Express".
The country's main Christmas tree this year is more than 20 meters tall. It is decorated with about a thousand different toys and 4 kilometers of garlands. And the "New Year's Queen" is guarded by loyal guards - large figures of nutcrackers and Ukrainian Cossacks.
