27 April 2025 in the capital of Belarus officially marked the start of the long-awaited attractions season. For Minsk residents and city guests, entertainment complexes opened their doors in three popular parks: Chelyuskintsev, the 900th Anniversary of Minsk, and Hugo Chávez. Gorky Park will join later – reconstruction is being completed there, and the opening is scheduled for 1 May.
Scale of Entertainment: Where and What Is Operating
Under the management of “Minskgzelenstroy” there is an impressive amusement park – 58 different rides distributed among the city’s recreational areas:
It is worth noting updates to the entertainment offerings: last year two outdated rides were decommissioned – “Swans” in Chelyuskintsev Park and “Waltz” in Gorky Park. Modern analogues meeting all safety requirements have already been installed in their place.
Safety and New Rules
This year, preparations for the season opening were carried out according to updated rules. Changes affected the system of inspection and diagnostics of rides, especially those that had reached the end of their service life. This has ensured maximum safety for visitors.
Particular attention has been paid to the technical condition of the attractions. As representatives of Hugo Chávez Park’s administration note, “absolutely all rides are in excellent condition – they were installed last year.”
Opening Atmosphere: First Visitors
Despite the chilly weather and biting wind on opening day, lovers of active recreation gathered in the parks. This was especially noticeable in Hugo Chávez Park, where reporters observed the first visitors of the new season.
“I came here on 25 April,” shared schoolgirl Sonya, who went for a walk with her friend Polina. “I asked a café worker when the rides would start, and today I came here on purpose. We already tried the ‘Flying Saucer’, the ‘Waltz’ and the ‘Mix’ – it was great to ride them together.”
Many Minsk residents had been eagerly awaiting the season’s start. Among the first visitors was Minsk native Alyona with her three daughters: “Last weekend, on Easter, we strolled here, but everything was closed despite the lovely weather. We checked online when the rides would open, and came early today.”
Pricing Policy and Hours of Operation
Good news for visitors – ticket prices have not changed since last year. According to Tatiana, the duty officer for rides and gaming equipment at Hugo Chávez Park, prices vary depending on the chosen attraction:
- A session on the ‘Waltz’, ‘Flying Saucer’, trampolines and the little train – 5 rubles
- Inflatable trampoline ‘Birch Grove’ – 6 rubles
- ‘Bumper Cars’ and ‘Mix’ – 7 rubles
- 5D cinema – 8 rubles
Discounts are available for large families, making tickets for the same attractions cost 3.75–6 rubles.
As for operating hours, on weekdays the rides welcome visitors from 11:00 to 21:00, and on weekends, pre-holiday and holiday days the time is extended until 22:00.
Infrastructure for a Full-Fledged Rest
Minsk’s parks offer not only rides but also full infrastructure for the recreation of city residents of all ages. For example, in Hugo Chávez Park there are:
- Playgrounds for toddlers
- The ‘Fairy Tale Kingdom’ play area with tunnels and ladders
- Gazebos and covered benches for rest
- Sports grounds with pull-up bars and exercise equipment
- Running paths
Several cafés with a diverse menu are open for snacks: pancakes, waffles, hot corn, ice cream, shashlik, hot dogs and French fries.
Development Plans
City authorities continue to develop recreation infrastructure. In particular, Hugo Chávez Park’s area will be expanded this year – construction is planned to begin in spring–summer. The updated location will feature:
- New zones for children’s games
- Additional sports areas
- A cycling track
- A hockey rink
- Possibly a new ice rink
The land area for these sports facilities will exceed 28 hectares.
Why You Should Visit Minsk Parks?
The attractions season in Minsk is a great opportunity to spend time with family or friends. The parks offer not only rides but also playgrounds, sports zones and cozy cafés with classic street food. And this year Hugo Chávez Park is set to expand: new gaming and sports areas will make it even more attractive.
So, if you’re looking for where to spend the weekend in Minsk, head to one of the city’s parks. The season has just begun, and a sea of fun, bright emotions and unforgettable moments awaits you!