Over 900 guests attended Dumpling and Gingerbread Days at the National Centre RUSSIA in the Primorye region
The National Centre RUSSIA in the Primorye region has summed up the results of two gastronomic events which were held at the start of the year. Over 700 people took part in Pelmen (Dumpling) Day. For the guests, 1,400 dumplings of various kinds were cooked. Pryanik (Gingerbread) Day brought together 220 participants and became another new, yet already warm tradition of the National Centre.
"The dumpling is a unifying symbol of the start of the year. In Asian countries, there is a tradition of eating New Year dumplings by the whole family, and in Russia, there is a similar story: after holiday feasts, on the third or fourth day after them, dumplings often appear in homes. We combined these traditions of different peoples of Russia and Asia, giving guests the opportunity not only to taste but also to take part in the preparation," emphasised the head of the National Centre RUSSIA in Primorye, Vitaly Stanislavchuk.
The format of gastronomic workshops has become an integral part of the work of the National Centre RUSSIA in Primorye. In 2025, over 100 children's gastronomic sessions were held, involving more than 3,000 children.
"A workshop is not just about the treat. It is both an opportunity to show how a dish is prepared, and a live dialogue between the chef and the guests. Here, the participants are not the only ones who learn — the chefs themselves learn, too. They learn to understand people's tastes, traditions, and reactions," added Vitaly Stanislavchuk.
Gingerbread Day became another good tradition of the National Centre. The National Centre RUSSIA is planning to hold holidays dedicated to this sweet treat several times a year, developing the culture of having tea with gingerbread as part of the national gastronomic legacy.
The branch of the National Centre also shared its plans for 2026. Starting from February-March, gastronomic workshops will be held regularly — at least once every two weeks, including separate sessions for children. Furthermore, prior to major events such as the pollack and rhododendron festivals, gastronomic dinners are planned.
"Food is a universal language. Regardless of culture, age, and nationality, it is around a shared table that people unite. We want to keep and develop this tradition," explained Vitaly Stanislavchuk.
On 17 January, Pancake Day will be held at the National Centre RUSSIA in Primorye. During the festivity, guests will enjoy a series of gastronomic workshops from Vladivostok chefs, where the familiar dishes will be revealed through signature recipes and unconventional combinations.
A press conference dedicated to the launch of the unique educational programme for talented young teenagers, the Young Journalists School, will be held on 13 January at the National Centre RUSSIA.
