In Eastern Europe, Slavic countries have the tradition of Ded Moroz (”Grandfather Frost”). He is accompanied by his granddaughter Snegurochka (”Snowmaiden”).

According to legend, he travels in a magical decorated sleigh drawn by reindeer, and delivers gifts to children. He is thought to descend more from Santa Claus than from Saint Nicholas.

Christmas celebration in Russia is on the 7th of January (which corresponds to December 25 in the Julian Calendar). The tradition of celebrating Christmas has been revived since 1992, after decades of suppression by the communist government.

It is centered on the Christmas Eve “Holy Supper”, which consists of twelve servings, one to honor each of Jesus’ apostles.

The Russian traditions were largely kept alive by shifting some of them, including the visit by gift-giving “Grandfather Frost” and his “Snowmaiden”, to New Year’s Day.

Many current Russian Christmas customs, including their Christmas tree, or “yolka”, were brought by Peter the Great, after his western travels in the late 17th century.

Source: Wikipedia