Caravana de Craciun in Chisinau

 

Caravana de Creciun in Chisinau (CCC)   Last weekend I was in the capital city and enjoyed some of the holiday atmosphere there.  Of course the "brad craciun" (christmas tree) was right in front of the main square.  There was a special choo-choo train for the kiddies.  I think this is where the caravan theme comes from.  Of course big folks still have to use the public transit, see trolley bus above.  One new thing I noted was popcorn wagons around the square.  You just can't pass that aroma by without wanting a bag.  And Old St Nick, I mean "Mos Craciun"  was around to take pictures.  The National Cathedral in the Plaza is named "Nașterea Domnului"  Birth of Christ Cathedral.  The compass in the sidewalk you see above is a new landmark in Chisinau, only a few weeks old.  It's in front of the main post office marking ground Zero to all points European.  And of course the main street, Stefan cel Mare Blvd was looking all decked out including a full moon.  Chisinau City Hall ( that's "Primaria" in Moldovan) was the most lit up.  I also joined a group of PCV's that went to Mold Expo to the Christmas Bazaar put on by the International Women's Organization for Charity.  Many, many of the embassies here in Chisinau participate with booths that feature their country's foods and crafts.  All the sales go to help the orphanage in Chisinau.  You can see the Santa from Turkey.  He's kind of skinny.  Some Peace Corps patrons and the Peace Corps Booth.  If you check the third last picture above, look for a gentleman with a red sweater in back center.  That's our US Ambassador here, William Moser.  The beautiful painted plate is something I bought at the Russian booth.  (Ssssh, don't say anything, it's a present for my host mom.)  Of course, I got a chance to tell Mos Craciun my Christmas list which is probably a lot like yours.  Health and happiness in the New Year.