Invigorating chaga and eco-friendly toys: what sets the Vologda region apart at the Department Store of the National Centre RUSSIA

Chaga that energises better than coffee, and safe wooden toys for children’s creativity and development — all of this is produced in the Vologda region and presented at the Department Store of the National Centre RUSSIA. Products from the Vologda region combine the traditions of the Russian North, natural ingredients and a modern approach to quality.

The range includes chaga-based tea drinks and wooden souvenir products. Chaga tea is made from birch fungus, traditionally considered a northern functional product. Particular attention is paid to both raw materials and packaging: ground chaga and its blends with oregano, St John’s wort, mint, chamomile, rosehip, currant and sea buckthorn are packed in handmade birch barrels crafted from solid wood. This packaging protects the product from light, moisture and foreign odours, helps preserve its properties for longer, and also serves as a ready-made gift solution. The drink is recommended to be consumed without sugar, with honey, cream or lemon added if desired.

Chaga is valued for its functional qualities: it is attributed antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, a beneficial effect on the digestive system, immunity and overall body tone. It contains B-group vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin C and trace elements. This tea is suitable for regular consumption by adults and children over three years old, except in cases of individual intolerance. Guests of the Department Store praise the drink not only for its flavour and aroma, but also for the striking appearance of the packaging, which can later be used as a keepsake box.

Photo: Press Office of the National Centre RUSSIA

Wooden toys created by Vologda craftsmen continue the traditions of northern craftsmanship. Various types of wood, natural oils and paints are used in their production, making the items pleasant to the touch and safe. The collection includes toy cars, tractors, educational sets and other models suitable both for play and for fostering a child’s interest in the material world. An important part of this direction is work with legacy: craftsmen recreate toy designs first produced in Vologda during the Soviet period, preserving recognisable shapes and a distinctive style.

In addition, a regional-themed roly-poly doll (nevalyashka) decoration project has been launched at the Department Store RUSSIA. It is based on the traditional Kotovsk tumbler doll. The Vologda version is decorated with Russian North painting in the Sheksna gilding style. The dressed dolls can already be seen at the Department Store — they are not for sale and serve as decorative elements reflecting the culture of the region.

Vologda products at the Department Store RUSSIA demonstrate how regional producers combine craftsmanship, an eco-friendly approach to materials and a growing interest in conscious consumption.