The time frame in Peterhof has been shifted. The summer season here is considered to be the period from mid-May to mid-October, when the famous fountains operate. And the beginning and end of this very summer season are celebrated on a grand scale in May and September. There are plenty of reasons for confusion, so once again about the main thing: Samson, tearing the lion’s mouth, and another 1590 fountains work from late April to mid-October, every day, without days off or lunch breaks, from 11 am to 6 pm, and on Saturdays almost until 21.00.
This country ceremonial residence plays its historical role, invented by the founding father Peter I, in good faith. The victory of Russian weapons – symbolizes (Samson tearing the lion’s mouth, just an allegory of Russia’s victory over Sweden in the Northern War),
serves as the calling card of the country (it’s not for nothing that receptions of participants, for example, the G20, are held here). And at the same time, Peterhof has always played the role of a huge entertainment platform. Parks and fountains became fantastic decorations for large-scale holidays both under the emperors and the Bolsheviks.
Today, the tradition of two celebrations is strictly observed: the opening and closing of the summer season. At the end of May (this year on the 21st) and mid-September, respectively. There is only one location – the Grand Cascade in the Lower Park. And the times vary – the opening of the season is celebrated on one day and in the daytime, and the closing can be watched on two evenings in a row. If you like large-scale performances with an emphasis on history, theater and dance shows, orchestral music, fireworks – this is the place for you. It cannot be any other way here – the place obliges. The Grand Cascade, the Grand Palace and the great history of Peterhof itself dictate high style.
The shows here are performances with their own script, dramaturgy and message that the organizers want to convey to the viewer. Thus, performances were dedicated to great architects, Russian literature, and anniversaries of military victories. Evening events are held in a multimedia format. The strongest impression on the viewer is usually made by the projection of huge three-dimensional images onto the façade of the Grand Palace (mapping) – the palace literally comes to life. Add to this lighting effects, music, a pyrotechnic show and finally – the culmination of the show – the launch of the Grand Cascade fountains. It really makes a strong impression.
Evening September shows are superior to daytime shows in entertainment and grandeur. But after the daytime performance you will have more time for walking and admiring the park and fountains.
The opening and closing festivities of the summer season are attended by several tens of thousands of people. If you are going to Peterhof these days, remember that you need to allow extra time for the road (traffic jams are possible) and searching for parking (if you are driving your own car). Tickets for the event only give you access to the park, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to get the best view. You need to be prepared for the fact that leaving the park may take some time. And the departure from Peterhof to St. Petersburg (book train tickets to St. Petersburg) is usually complicated by heavy traffic on the road. The best option is to stay overnight in one of the Peterhof hotels.
