An international maritime festival opened on Friday in this Russian city, the seat of the headquarters of the Russian Navy.
The first of its kind in Russia's "maritime capital," the three-day event is unfolding simultaneously in three locations: downtown St. Petersburg, Kronstadt island and a local ferry terminal.
The festival features a variety of activities, including live music and dance, boat regattas, lectures and discussions with marine experts, as well as plenty of seafood to eat.
Under the theme of "The Sea is Near," the gala was organized by the St. Petersburg municipal government under the "Year of Culture" initiative, and supported by the Russian Ministry of Defence. It is expected to draw thousands of visitors.
The festival came on the heels of a series of maritime events in and around the city, including a powerboat championship and an ecological festival.