On November 13, 2025, the Ukrainian family fantasy comedy “Christmas Guardians” will premiere.
This heartfelt and touching story follows a girl named Vira, whose wish causes Christmas to disappear from people’s memories.
Now, three legendary magical figures — St. Nicholas (Ivan Blindar), Santa Claus (Mykhailo Kukuiuk), and the Spirit of Winter (Stanislav Boklan) — must join forces to restore people’s belief in miracles and regain their magical powers.
These enchanting events were filmed in Kyiv — and below, we explore the exact locations where the shooting took place.
Yaroslav the Wise National Library of Ukraine
Location:
- 1 Mykhaila Hrushevskoho Street
- 1 Naberezhno-Khreshchatytska Street
This well-known library was founded back in 1866, which rightfully places it among the oldest public libraries in Ukraine. Its shelves hold around five million books and various documents — so there is definitely something for everyone to read here.
And its beautiful facades, stunning halls, columns, and vast open spaces have also made the library remarkably “cinematic.” So it’s no surprise that the creators of the new film couldn’t pass it by. Let’s keep an eye out for these iconic interiors — with their arches, tall windows, and columns — in the upcoming movie.
Vozdvyzhenka
The area around Vozdvyzhenska Street, together with the surrounding lanes of the Podil district, has deep historical roots. Long ago, this place was known as the Honchari–Kozhumiaky ravine, where tanners, potters, and blacksmiths mostly lived.
And the well-known name “Vozdvyzhenka” originates from the Exaltation of the Cross Church, which was built between 1823 and 1841.
Today, this area stands out for its colorful facades and Baroque-style architecture. It is one of the most picturesque corners of the capital, so it’s no surprise that these very streets will appear in the new fairy-tale story.
The Bohdan and Varvara Khanenko National Museum of Arts
Location: 15–17 Tereshchenkivska Street
At the heart of the museum is the collection of the Khanenko couple — Bohdan and Varvara. It is rightly considered one of the most outstanding art collections in Ukraine.
The museum houses paintings as well as a wide range of decorative and applied arts from Asia, Europe, and the ancient world.
The museum’s interior is equally impressive. It combines marble, antiquities, and classical halls, creating a sense of being in a space filled with mystery and art.
And when making a film about magic, wizards, and saving Christmas, not using such a location would have been a real mistake. Fortunately for us, the filmmakers didn’t make that mistake.
Kontraktova Square in Podil
The square has existed since the time of the princes and was used as a large trading marketplace. Its name, Kontraktova, comes from the fact that merchants from different parts of the country often concluded profitable — and sometimes not-so-profitable — “contracts” here.
Today, it is a popular spot thanks to its many cafés and the festivals held here. Yet the historical significance of the square remains.
This location helped the film crew depict a city that had lost its holiday decorations and then, through the efforts of the heroes, regained the magic of Christmas.
Pavilion No. 12 at VDNH
Overall, the VDNH exhibition center has existed since 1958 and covers more than 287 hectares. Today, this pavilion is often used as a studio space, an exhibition venue, and of course, as a filming location for many movies.
It’s no surprise, as this location allows for the placement of even large sets, control over lighting, and the use of snow effects. That’s why Pavilion No. 12 played a key role in the making of the new Christmas film.
Many people pass by these locations every day, or even visit them. Yet realizing that just yesterday, cinematic magic was being created here makes you see these places in a different light. And who knows — maybe a little bit of that magic still lingers, waiting to be discovered.
Author: Yana Shevtsova