Santa Claus and Snow Maiden are touring a military unit in Armenia. Its barracks are decorated with firs and balloons, and festive tables are set in the canteen.

The military unit’s deputy commander, Lernik Asryan, told Armenian News- NEWS.am that they welcome the New Year in a special way.

“All the staff assembles in the canteen, each year on December 31 between 8pm and 11pm, where there is a celebratory dinner. Subsequently, we gather in front of the TV, listen to the [New Year] messages by the President and the Catholicos. Then begins the festive evening filled with cultural and sporting events,” Asryan said.

He added that the military unit also has singers, female dancers, and presenters, who also become the Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden.

“What is a Santa Claus without gifts? A lottery is organized. It’s the favorite moment of the soldiers, since the [grand] prize is a vacation. [But] the best barrack staff, [and] the best cultural and sporting performances also receive gifts,” the military unit’s deputy commander noted.