About 3,000 children attended the celebration, and the venue, which accommodates nearly 5,000 spectators, became the site for this event for the first time in a long time.
The new arena brought both advantages and challenges for the organizers. Previously, only children were allowed into the Christmas tree event, while parents waited outside at the Philharmonic or the State Circus. However, this year, adults were permitted to enter with their children. This decision, however, caused confusion: parents occupied seats designated for children, leading to some kids being unable to find available chairs. Appeals to conscience did not always work.
“We tried to do everything better: we thought there would be enough seats for everyone. But this is a holiday for children, and adults took their places. Next year, we will probably restrict entry to children only again,” the organizers lamented.
It was only by 11:00 that the audience was seated, and the celebration finally began. Among the honored guests were the mayor of the city, Aibek Junushaliev, the Commissioner for Children's Rights of Kyrgyzstan, Asel Chynbaeva, and the Deputy Speaker of the Bishkek City Council, Zhyldyzbek Abdrayimov.
Congratulating the children, the mayor wished them health, success in their studies, a happy childhood, and the fulfillment of all their wishes. “You are our future. Be fair, determined, and hardworking! Do not be afraid to dream and believe in your strengths! Respect your parents, teachers, and elders!” he said.
In a conversation with journalists, Aibek Junushaliev emphasized that the construction of the "Zhashtyk Arena" has significantly expanded the format of city events. This is why this year it was possible to invite more children, and the largest celebrations of the capital will take place here.
“For the New Year’s tree, we invited honor students, activists, contest winners, as well as children from large and socially vulnerable families,” the mayor added.
The main gift for the children was a theatrical performance titled “The 7 Wonders of Kyrgyzstan,” which introduced them to the cultural heritage, traditions, and values of the country in an engaging manner.
A schoolboy named Alan, who came to the celebration with his mother, shared his expectations: “I was looking forward to this Christmas tree. The arena is very beautiful and big. The concert was wonderful, now I’m waiting for a gift,” he said with a smile.
The children who received gifts from Aibek Junushaliev were satisfied. This is probably the most important thing for them.
Overall, the New Year’s tree brought children a lot of positive emotions and a sense of a real holiday. For many young visitors, this day became one of the most memorable events of the past year and a magnificent start to the New Year celebrations in Bishkek.
