New Year’s trees in Kyiv from the 1930s to the 1990s: a look back through photos at the festive decorations and styles over the decades.

The main Christmas tree of the country is traditionally referred to as the one that is set up in Kyiv. Initially, festive trees were placed at Independence Square, but after the Revolution of Dignity in 2014, the tree was permanently moved to St. Sophia Square.

Over the years, the main tree of the country has undergone a significant evolution, repeatedly dazzling Ukrainians with its bright lights, unique designs, and stylish decorations.

"Telegraph" invites its readers to take a journey into the past and recall how the main Christmas tree of the country looked from the 1930s to the 1990s. We are sure you will be surprised.

Tree in 1930

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In the 1930s, the tree was erected at St. Sophia Square.

Here, you can see a large natural tree and a life-size figure of Father Frost.

Tree in 1946

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In 1946, a post-war photo of the New Year tree on Khreshchatyk was taken in Kyiv.

The festive tree was adorned with balls, light bulbs, and flags featuring Soviet symbols. Father Frost was painted on plywood.

Tree in 1948

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In 1948, a modest New Year tree was set up on Khreshchatyk in Kyiv.

Interestingly, it had no decorations. It is possible that this photo was simply taken next to the growing trees in a city park and it was not the main New Year tree of the capital.

Tree in 1950

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This year, it was decided to place the tree on Builders' Street. It was adorned with a small number of toys shaped like giant candies.

A fence was set up around the festive tree.

Tree in 1951

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In 1951, the main tree of the capital looked just like this.

Tree in 1954

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In 1954, the main tree stood at St. Sophia Square. A life-size figure of Father Frost was also installed nearby.

Tree in the 1950s

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The New Year tree at Independence Square and the construction of the Main Post Office in the mid-1950s.

Tree in the 1957

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In 1957, the tree was erected on Khreshchatyk. This time it was lavishly decorated — you could see garlands, toys, and tinsel on its branches.

Tree in 1961

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In 1961, the main Kyiv tree was set up near the Khreshchatyk metro station. It was not particularly tall, but quite interestingly decorated.

Tree in 1962

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This year, the New Year tree was dedicated to Yuri Gagarin's flight into space. A figure of an astronaut launching a rocket was placed next to the tree.

Tree in 1967

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In 1967, the tree in Kyiv commemorated the 50th anniversary of Soviet power. It was decorated quite colorfully and even somewhat gaudily.

Tree in 1981

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The tree was installed next to the capital's conservatory. It was decided to decorate it with New Year "pictures" that stood at the base of the tree.

Tree in 1982

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The tree was set up at Independence Square. It was brightly decorated and very much liked by the residents of Kyiv.

Tree in 1993

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In 1993, one of the most famous New Year trees in independent Ukraine was erected in Kyiv.

Tree in 1997

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This year, the New Year tree stood at Independence Square. It was beautifully decorated, and Father Frost sat nearby, welcoming guests and chatting amiably with everyone who came.

Let’s remind you that prices for New Year trees in Ukraine are astronomical this year, but this does not deter residents of the capital, who are actively inquiring about the cost of live fir trees. This year, official Christmas tree markets in Kyiv have already started operating, where you can purchase a festive tree to suit any taste and budget.

All trees are chipped, allowing for tracking their origin and protecting buyers from acquiring illegally cut evergreens.

Previously, "Telegraph" reported on whether Kyiv residents should expect TCC raids during the New Year. Ukraine is undergoing general mobilization, and the issuance of summons can occur anywhere. In particular, citizens may be notified in public places that become venues for festive events during the New Year holidays.