Explore Russia’s Main Achievements at VDNH Exhibition
On National Unity Day, the large-scale ‘Russia’ International Exhibition and Forum opened at VDNH in Moscow. Running until April 12, 2024, the festival celebrates the breakthroughs, history, art, and fascinating diversity of Russia’s regions, culture, and industry.
Open until April 12
In Russian, the acronym VDNH stands for Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy. The exhibition venue, which opened on August 1, 1939, is a sprawling complex that showcases the country's scientific, technological, and agricultural achievements. It is one of the largest exhibition centres in the world, spanning over 300 hectares and with more than 250 pavilions and exhibition halls. VDNH also features a large park with gardens (such as the Moscow Botanical Garden and the smaller Ostankino Park), fountains, and sculptures, and a variety of entertainment options, including amusement rides, a cinema, and a theatre. VDNH is located in the Ostankinsky District of Moscow, near VDNH metro station and less than a kilometre from Ostankino Tower. Cosmonauts Alley and the Worker and Kolkhoz Woman statue are situated just outside the main entrance to VDNH. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, attracting over 19 million visitors each year. In recent years, VDNH has undergone a major renovation, with many of its pavilions being restored to their original grandeur. With its unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment, VDNH is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Moscow, as it provides an opportunity to see several of Russia’s main attractions at once.
Stepping inside the halls of VDNH, visitors embark on a journey through time. They encounter iconic pavilions that once displayed the Soviet Union's achievements, now transformed to reflect contemporary Russia's progress. This fusion of historical context and cutting-edge innovation creates an immersive experience.
The ‘Russia’ exhibition represents 89 distinct regions, diverse corporations, and prominent public organisations across 67 sites spanning 265,000 square meters. The 47 permanent pavilions and 12 temporary structures house 131 expositions, each dedicated to showcasing the nation's triumphs and future ambitions.
Prirodograd
Pavilion B is dedicated to ecology, sustainability, and Russia’s natural resources. Various locations are depicted, including an iridescent forest, the bowels of the earth, a pond, and a ‘room of fear’.
Visitors to this pavilion can find out where minerals are mined in Russia, what kind of nature protection programmes are being implemented in the country, and what the consequences of a careless attitude towards nature may be. All locations are interactive—visitors can try to mine ore, clean reservoirs, or face the horrors of an environmental disaster.
The entire pavilion is colourfully decorated. Posters dedicated to environmental care are on display, and one of the walls features a picture made of plastic bottles.
Beyond national narratives, the ‘Russia’ exhibition shines a spotlight on the individual stories of each region. Dedicated ‘regional days’ allow visitors to delve deep into the cultural tapestry, economic potential, and unique traditions of each of the 89 participating entities. From savouring regional delicacies to immersing themselves in local folklore, visitors gain a profound appreciation for Russia's vibrant diversity.
Regions of Russia
The exhibition in Pavilion 75 is an ensemble of mini-locations representing the regions of Russia. Each location highlights what is remarkable about the region, the traditions of the people living in it, what they are proud of, and what they live by.
Visitors can view the handicrafts, natural beauties, and future projects of these regions, as well as try on folk costumes, participate in rituals, and gain a better insight into ethnic cultures in Russia. The pavilion is also filled with items that can be touched, viewed, and tried on.
The exhibition displays the culture of the country and the vector of development that different regions have chosen for themselves.
The cultural and entertainment programme adds another layer of vibrancy to the event, from performances by renowned artists to interactive experiences. Visitors can witness traditional dances, sample regional cuisines, and participate in workshops, immersing themselves in the heart of Russian culture. The schedule of all events, exhibitions, lectures, etc can be found on the website.
Address: 12 Ulitsa Akademika Koroleva, VDNH metro station
Open: Sun, Tue, Wed 10 am–6 pm (last entry at 5 pm); Thu, Fri, Sat 10 am–9 pm (last entry at 8 pm) Mon - Closed; Tue – Thu: from 10 am to 9 pm; Fri – Sun: 10 am to 10 pm
Tickets: Admission to all events and exhibitions is free.
Visitors must register on the website before attending certain events.
Important! The most convenient and uncrowded time to visit is in the morning and on weekdays.
February 23 and March 8 — The exhibition is open from 10 am to 10 pm
Where to Eat
A visit to VDNH can be time consuming, so here are several good places to have a snack or a full meal nearby.
Domik V Sadu
Domik V Sadu is a Mediterranean restaurant located in a cosy mansion. The menu includes oven-fired pizza and hand-made pasta.
Address: 119 Prospekt Mira, building 513, Moscow (near pavilions No. 64 and No. 66)
Open: Sun – Wed from 11 am to 10 pm
Thu – Sat from 11 am to 11 pm
Average bill: 2000 roubles per person
Varenichnaya No. 1
Visitors to VDNH can sample traditional Russian cuisine such as Olivier salad and Russian dumplings at the Varenichnaya No. 1 cafe chain.
Address: 119 Prospekt Mira, building 521, Moscow
Open: Mon – Thu from 11 am to 11 pm
Fri – Sun from 11 am to 12 pm
Average bill: 1000 roubles per person
Surf Coffee x VDNKH
The perfect place for those looking to try specialty coffee or enjoy a classic latte with a croissant or sandwich. Our personal recommendation is to have a bumble coffee (an espresso shot, freshly squeezed orange juice, and caramel syrup). It is also a great place to work or spend time with friends.
Address: 3 2nd Ostankinskaya, Moscow
Open: Weekdays from 8 am to 10 pm; weekends from 9 am to 11 pm
Average bill: 800–1000 roubles per person
VDNH does not have English-language descriptions or an English audio guide. To get the most out of your visit, we recommend reading up on the exhibition in advance.
Text by Polina Safronova, Polina Sukhacheva, and Olga Timofeeva, bachelor’s students of Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication, interns at the HSE University English website team