Fountain Season 2025 Opens in Minsk with 39 Stunning Displays

25 April 2025 in Minsk officially kicked off the fountain season — an event that traditionally heralds the arrival of spring and delights both locals and tourists. On this day, the first jets of water soared into the air, attracting the attention of city dwellers and visitors to the capital. In this article, we’ll explain how the fountain launches take place, which installations were the first this season, and why this event is so important for the city.

Traditions of Fountain Launch in Minsk

In Minsk, the fountain season begins on the last Friday of April, and 2025 was no exception. On 25 April, specialists from “Minskzelenstroy” launched the water cascades they had carefully prepared for the new season. Each fountain undergoes equipment diagnostics, basin cleaning, and, if necessary, pump modernization. The launch is carried out manually, requiring employees to exercise special precision and attention. This year, 39 fountains will operate in the capital, of which 16 are scheduled for renovation during the season. As noted by the Deputy General Director and Chief Engineer of “Minskzelenstroy,” Ruslan Kosevich, the repair work will be carried out in stages: “We will sequentially shut down, repair, and then restart those fountains that require it.”

The First Fountain of the Season: at the Bolshoi Theatre

Traditionally, the first fountain in Minsk to start working was the one by the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre. This water feature is considered one of the largest in the city. Built in 2009, it includes not only the fountain itself but also an extended water cascade nearly 700 meters long, holding up to 300,000 liters of water. The jets here trace the outlines of the renovated theatre building, creating an impressive spectacle. The launch of the fountain at the Bolshoi Theatre drew dozens of spectators. Among them was a guest from Mogilev, Mikhail, who shared: “I’ve always dreamed of seeing this place. I threw a coin to make sure I’ll come back here again.” The moment of launch was accompanied by bright emotions and camera clicks — for many, it became a symbol of the beginning of spring.

The Most Popular Fountains of Minsk

In addition to the fountain at the Bolshoi Theatre, Minsk has other water features beloved by locals and tourists:

• “Venok” Fountain in Yanka Kupala Park — one of the most spectacular, operating daily until 23:00. Valentina, a Minsk resident, noted: “When you see the fountains running again, you immediately understand that everything around comes back to life.”
• “Spadchyna” Fountain — located in the historic part of the city and dear to many residents. Pavel, a Minsk resident, said: “My wife and I took our first post-wedding photo here. And as a child, I walked here with my grandmother, and now I bring my son here.”

These fountains adorn the city, become meeting places, and create an atmosphere of comfort and celebration.

Visiting Rules and Working Hours

The fountain season will run until the last Friday of September 2025. Most installations operate from 10:00–11:00 until 21:00–22:00, and some, like the “Venok” fountain, until 23:00. However, under certain weather conditions — rain exceeding 5 mm/h, temperatures below +10 °C, or winds stronger than 10 m/s — the fountains may be temporarily switched off. Given the forecast of a cold snap from 26 April, not all water cascades began operating on the first days of the season. It is important to remember: swimming in the fountains is prohibited. The water contains chemicals necessary for maintaining cleanliness but dangerous to health upon direct contact.

Why the Fountain Season Is Important for Minsk

The launch of the fountains in Minsk is not only a technical event but also a small celebration that unofficially ushers in spring and good spirits. The water cascades enliven city streets, attract tourists, and become part of the daily life of Minsk residents. It is a time when city dwellers gather to enjoy the first sprays of water and take memorable photographs. The opening of the fountain season on 25 April 2025 was a vivid event that reminded everyone once again: spring has begun in Minsk. Ahead lie long months during which 39 water features will delight the eye and create an atmosphere of warmth and renewal.