Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan for Christmas Cheer

Kazakhstan may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of holiday cheer, but the country has its own unique way of celebrating the season. From twinkling lights and festive markets to winter activities and cultural traditions, there are plenty of places to embrace the holiday spirit in December. Whether you're an expat or a digital nomad looking for a cozy winter escape or a festive atmosphere, these destinations offer a mix of local charm and seasonal joy.

Almaty’s Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral

Almaty’s Panfilov Park transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with the iconic Zenkov Cathedral at its heart. The park is adorned with twinkling lights, and the cathedral’s golden domes stand out against the snowy backdrop. Nearby, the Green Bazaar often sets up a small holiday market where vendors sell handmade crafts, warm drinks, and traditional Kazakh treats. The atmosphere is especially magical in the evenings when the lights reflect off the snow, making it a perfect spot for a festive stroll. The park also hosts occasional holiday concerts and performances, adding to the seasonal charm.

We Recommend: Try a cup of *shubat* (fermented camel milk) or *kymyz* (fermented mare’s milk) from one of the stalls—it’s a uniquely Kazakh way to warm up while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.

Astana’s Khan Shatyr & Bayterek Tower Area

Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana (now Nur-Sultan), goes all out for the holidays, with the Khan Shatyr shopping center and Bayterek Tower area becoming the heart of the celebrations. The Khan Shatyr often hosts a festive market where you can find handmade gifts, holiday decorations, and international treats. The nearby Bayterek Tower is illuminated with colorful lights, and the surrounding area is filled with ice sculptures and winter activities. The city also hosts a grand New Year’s Eve celebration with fireworks, concerts, and performances, making it a lively place to ring in the season.

We Recommend: Don’t miss the *baursaks* (fried dough balls) at the market—they’re a beloved Kazakh snack, especially when dusted with powdered sugar and served warm.

Karaganda’s Central Park

Karaganda’s Central Park is one of the best places in the city to experience holiday cheer. The park is decorated with festive lights, and an ice rink is often set up for skating. A small holiday market pops up near the entrance, selling handmade crafts, holiday ornaments, and warm drinks. The park also hosts occasional holiday performances, including traditional Kazakh music and dance, which add a cultural touch to the celebrations. The atmosphere is cozy and family-friendly, making it a great spot to enjoy the season.

We Recommend: Grab a cup of *kaymak* (clotted cream) served with honey and fresh bread—it’s a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with the winter chill.

Shymkent’s Ordabasy Square

Shymkent’s Ordabasy Square is the city’s hub for holiday festivities, with a large Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and a bustling market. The square often hosts a holiday bazaar where vendors sell handmade gifts, winter accessories, and traditional Kazakh foods. There’s also an ice rink for skating, and the square is a popular gathering spot for families and friends. The city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations here are lively, with fireworks, music, and performances that draw large crowds.

We Recommend: Try *samsa* (meat-filled pastries) from one of the market stalls—they’re crispy, savory, and perfect for a quick snack while exploring.

Pavlodar’s Central Embankment

Pavlodar’s Central Embankment along the Irtysh River is a picturesque spot to enjoy the holidays. The area is decorated with festive lights, and an ice rink is often set up for skating. A small holiday market appears near the embankment, selling handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and warm drinks. The city also hosts a New Year’s Eve celebration with fireworks over the river, creating a stunning backdrop for the festivities. The embankment is a great place for a winter walk, with the snow-covered trees and lights adding to the magical atmosphere.

We Recommend: Warm up with a cup of *kazy* (horse meat sausage) soup—it’s hearty and perfect for a cold December day.

Atyrau’s Abay Square

Atyrau’s Abay Square is the center of the city’s holiday celebrations, with a large Christmas tree, festive lights, and a small market selling handmade gifts and treats. The square often hosts holiday performances, including traditional Kazakh music and dance, as well as modern concerts. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with families and friends gathering to enjoy the season. The city’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display is a highlight, lighting up the night sky over the Ural River.

We Recommend: Try *shelpek* (flatbread) served with *kurt* (dried cheese balls)—it’s a simple but delicious snack that’s popular during the holidays.

Oskemen’s Central Park

Oskemen’s Central Park is a charming spot to experience the holidays, with festive lights, an ice rink, and a small holiday market. The park is decorated with twinkling lights, and the market offers handmade crafts, holiday ornaments, and warm drinks. The city also hosts a New Year’s Eve celebration in the park, with fireworks, music, and performances. The atmosphere is cozy and family-friendly, making it a great place to enjoy the season with loved ones.

We Recommend: Don’t leave without trying *manty* (steamed dumplings)—they’re a staple of Kazakh cuisine and perfect for a cold winter day.

Taraz’s Aisha Bibi Mausoleum Area

Taraz’s Aisha Bibi Mausoleum area takes on a festive air in December, with holiday lights and decorations adding to the historic site’s charm. A small market often sets up nearby, selling handmade gifts, winter accessories, and traditional Kazakh foods. The city also hosts holiday performances, including music and dance, which are held in the evenings. The combination of history and holiday cheer makes this a unique spot to celebrate the season.

We Recommend: Warm up with a cup of *shai* (Kazakh tea) served with *bal kaimak* (honey and cream)—it’s a sweet and comforting treat.

Kokshetau’s Central Square

Kokshetau’s Central Square is the heart of the city’s holiday celebrations, with a large Christmas tree, festive lights, and a small market selling handmade crafts and treats. The square often hosts holiday performances, including traditional Kazakh music and dance, as well as modern concerts. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with families and friends gathering to enjoy the season. The city’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display is a highlight, lighting up the night sky over the square.

We Recommend: Try *kazy* (horse meat sausage) grilled over an open flame—it’s a flavorful and filling snack that’s perfect for a winter day.

Turkestan’s Yasawi Mausoleum Area

Turkestan’s Yasawi Mausoleum area is a unique place to experience the holidays, with festive lights and decorations adding to the historic site’s grandeur. A small market often sets up nearby, selling handmade gifts, winter accessories, and traditional Kazakh foods. The city also hosts holiday performances, including music and dance, which are held in the evenings. The combination of history and holiday cheer makes this a memorable spot to celebrate the season.

We Recommend: Don’t miss *chak-chak* (honey-dipped dough balls)—it’s a sweet and crunchy treat that’s popular during the holidays.