Author of materials about St. Petersburg, travel, excursions, and city routes.
Historian and guide for Peterhof, Oranienbaum, and St. Petersburg architecture.
In 2026, the fountain season starts already in April, and the main spring fountain festival of Peterhof will take place on May 16. On this day, the Lower Park turns into a huge open-air theatrical stage: hundreds of water jets soar upward to the music, artists in historical costumes act out scenes from the era of the emperors, and the gilded sculptures of the Grand Cascade shine in the rays of the spring sun. We tell you when the fountains in Peterhof will be turned on in 2026, what program is expected at the festival, and how best to get to the imperial residence from Saint Petersburg.
When the fountains in Peterhof will be turned on in 2026
Many tourists who come to the city in spring plan in advance tours around Saint Petersburg, to see the main sights and go to the suburbs, such as Peterhof.
If you want to stroll calmly along the narrow paths of the park, watch the water droplets sparkle in the sun, hide in the green alleys from prying eyes, and hear the noise of the fountains, it is better to come to Peterhof already at the end of April, because there are not so many tourists yet.
The technical launch of the fountains in 2026 is planned for April 25. From this day, the main fountains and cascades begin to operate, and the Lower Park opens for visits. An important point – entry to the park becomes paid.
You also shouldn't miss the chance to walk down to the Gulf of Finland itself. There's a special feeling of freedom and freshness here. A light sea breeze brings the salty scent of the water, mixed with the smell of warmed grass and foliage. Somewhere nearby you can hear the splash of waves and the cries of seagulls; you might spot ducks gliding leisurely across the water or coming ashore to dry their feathers. At moments like these, it's especially pleasant to bring a glass of iced tea or aromatic coffee and simply stop, sit down on the grass, and feel the calm. Time seems to slow down, and you're left alone with this light, almost resort-like mood.
However, the biggest event of the season happens a little later.
When the fountain festival in Peterhof will take place in 2026
The most grandiose event, the opening of the fountains in Peterhof in 2026, will be on May 16. This date has already been officially confirmed by the museum-reserve. It is on this day that the official opening of Peterhof in 2026 takes place and the summer tourist season begins.
The center of the events will be the square by the Grand Cascade – one of the most famous fountain ensembles in the world. A large-scale theatrical performance will unfold against the backdrop of the majestic palace.
The show is scheduled to begin at 13:00.
Program of the fountain festival in 2026
The program of the fountain opening celebration includes:
- A costumed theatrical performance featuring artists from St. Petersburg theaters
- Performances by musicians and soloists of the Mariinsky Theater
- Choreographic numbers under the open sky
- A ceremonial launch of the fountains to music
- Interactive programs and historical quizzes in the Lower Park
Just imagine how 150 fountains and 4 grandiose cascades come to life against the backdrop of the Gulf of Finland, filling the air with freshness and rainbow splashes. Golden statues shine in the sun, pleasant music plays. Your heart skips a beat before the creation of Peter the Great, built 300 years ago. This is exactly the event your soul has been waiting for all the cold winter: quiet green landscapes, white marble staircases, the play of light and water, a sea of smiles and joyful exclamations.
Will there be fireworks at the fountain festival in 2026
Many tourists dream of seeing fireworks over Peterhof. The spring fountain celebration takes place during the day, so no traditional evening salute is planned.
However, the culmination of the show is a ceremonial cannon salute and a pyrotechnic performance right by the cascades. Combined with water, music, and sunlight, it looks incredibly spectacular.
What to see in Peterhof
If you're visiting here for the first time, a logical question arises – what to see in Peterhof first. The palace and park ensemble is huge, so tourists usually start their walk with the main attractions.
One of which is the Grand Cascade and the Samson Fountain, a symbol of Russia's victory in the Great Northern War. From the cascade begins the Sea Canal, leading straight to the Gulf of Finland. You should definitely stroll along the alleys of the Lower Park, where various fountains are located, including the trick fountains that unexpectedly splash passersby.
History lovers will enjoy visiting the Grand Peterhof Palace, where luxurious halls from the era of the emperors have been preserved. It's also worth stopping by the Marly, Monplaisir, and Hermitage palaces, built back in the time of Peter the Great. That is why Peterhof is among the most popular destinations for tourists choosing excursions in St. Petersburg and trips to the suburbs.
Where Peterhof is located
Peterhof is located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland, west of the city. Administratively, the museum-reserve is situated in St. Petersburg at the address: the town of Peterhof, Razvodnaya Street, building 2.
How to get to Peterhof from Saint Petersburg
The imperial residence is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center. There are several ways to get there:
Hydrofoil
The fastest and most scenic option. High-speed vessels depart from piers in the center of St. Petersburg and arrive directly at the Lower Park. Travel time is about 35 minutes.
Boats depart from the "Hermitage Lower" pier near Palace Square and the "Descent with Lions" pier near the Admiralty.
Bus
You can get to Peterhof from the following metro stations:
From "Avtovo" – buses No. 200, 204, 210. You need to get off at the stops "Razvodnaya" or "Pravlenskaya", located near the Upper Garden. From "Prospekt Veteranov" – buses No. 103 and 343, as well as minibus K-639B. Get off at "Razvodnaya" as well. Travel time will be about 1 hour.
Commuter train
Trains and "Lastochka" express trains depart from the Baltiysky railway station to the Novy Peterhof station. You need trains heading to (Oranienbaum-1) or Kalishche. Travel time will be approximately 40 minutes.
From the station, you can walk to the palace and park ensemble or take buses No. 351A, 351B, 352, 356, 463, and 489.
Tour to Peterhof
To avoid wasting time in ticket office queues, which can be enormous on the day of the celebration, and not worry about logistics, the best option is to choose a tour to Peterhof from St. Petersburg with Leningrad Tour.
Peterhof is not just about fountains and palaces; it's about the feeling of a true getaway. Here it's easy to imagine strolling with your whole family along wide alleys, taking little breaks on benches, or hiding in the shade of trees on a hot day. It's the perfect place for dates: quiet paths, soft light, the sound of water, and conversations you don't want to end. The air is filled with the scents of greenery, damp stone, and freshness, while in your hands is a cool fruit lemonade that makes the walk even more pleasant. Peterhof leaves a feeling of lightness, coziness, and a kind of inner calm that you want to return to again and again.
Why choose Leningrad Tour?
Leningrad Tour has taken care of your comfort so you can enjoy Peterhof without any worries! Departure and return are organized from the very center of St. Petersburg (1 Vosstaniya St. / 10 Ligovsky Ave.) on a comfortable bus.
Tickets will already be purchased, and you won't have to stand in queues with other tourists, so you'll save time to enjoy the beauty of the fountains longer! On the way to Peterhof, there will be a sightseeing tour of St. Petersburg.
The program allows you to visit the Lower Park and the Grand Palace without tedious queues, seeing all the cascades and famous architectural masterpieces of the imperial residence (the Hermitage Pavilion, the Monplaisir and Marly palaces, the Grand Peterhof Palace).
A professional historian guide will immerse you in the atmosphere of Peter the Great's era and reveal the secret of the unique fountain system that has been operating for 300 years without a single pump.
Tour for the fountain opening celebration in Peterhof
Go to the tour →See you at the fountain celebration!
Frequently asked questions about the opening of the fountains in Peterhof
When will the fountain opening celebration in Peterhof take place in 2026?
The official opening of Peterhof in 2026 will take place on May 16, 2026. On this day, the museum-reserve officially opens the summer tourist season with a large-scale theatrical show at the Grand Cascade.
When are the fountains launched in Peterhof?
The technical launch of the fountains usually takes place in late April. In 2026, the launch is scheduled for April 25, after which the fountains begin operating daily.
What are the fountain opening hours in Peterhof?
From 10:00 to 19:45 every day, no days off. Schedule changes are possible on the days of the fountain closing ceremony, which takes place at the end of September.
How many fountains are there in Peterhof?
Peterhof is home to about 150 fountains and 4 grand cascades. In total, the museum-reserve has 176 water features.
Do I need to buy a ticket to the Lower Park?
Yes, entry to the Lower Park, where most of Peterhof's fountains are located, is paid. On the day of the fountain opening ceremony, the number of visitors is very large, so it is better to buy tickets in advance.
Can I watch the fountain festival without a ticket?
The main events take place in the Lower Park, so a ticket is required to fully enjoy the show. However, some elements of the celebration can be seen from the embankments or special screens outside the park.
Is photography allowed in Peterhof?
Yes, photography is allowed for personal use. Peterhof is considered one of the most photogenic places in St. Petersburg, especially when the fountains are running.
Can I visit Peterhof with children?
Yes, visiting with children is allowed. Children under 14 must be accompanied by adults on the museum-reserve grounds. Keep in mind that the Lower Park is very large, so it is best to plan your walk in advance.
How much does a ticket to Peterhof cost?
The price of an entrance ticket to the Lower Park of Peterhof, where the famous fountains are located, depends on the visitor category and the season. Adult ticket (full price): 750 rubles. Students and schoolchildren (ages 14 to 18, Russia and Belarus): 550 rubles. Children under 14 may enter free of charge.
