Looking for some new traditions to ring in the New Year? This December 31, Justine’s Brasserie parties in Slavic style with Volk, a New Year’s Celebration that will transform the bistro’s intimate interior into a decadent film set reminiscent of classic Russian cinema.

Justine’s proprietor Jardine Libaire gives us details about the dramatic celebration, which features DJs, a “Chekhov video booth,” a peep show — even snow.

“It's such an exquisite culture,” says Libaire of the inspiration behind Volk. “There’s an opulence that is, at times, defiant to hardship of all sorts. We like the playfulness of Russian folk takes and stories, and the dichotomy of rigid architecture and lush details — like the Russian Ballet's aesthetic and heritage.”

Storytelling is a huge part of Russian history; from the tragic romance of Dostoyevsky to the frenetic futurism of Bulgakov, and everywhere in between, the vast nation boasts one of the richest literary histories in the world. How many countries can boast a beloved poet whose legacy still lives on strong, centuries later?

We’re talking about Anton Chekhov, of course, and Justine’s will be paying tribute to him in the best possible way: by building a Chekhov video booth, where guests can take part in the filming of a single short story throughout the evening.

Additionally: “There will be Russian music and dancing, and an overall nod to the cinematic Russia we have all worshipped and idealized,” Libaire explains. “A portrait space of red velvet will be where we shoot guests in traditional Russian portrait style.”

There will be cultural traditions honored, too. “We will light wishes on fire and drink the ash in our champagne!”

Guests are encouraged to dress up. For style inspiration, we suggest checking out:

• The works of Daniil Kharms, a surrealist poet and playwright, are short and shadowy, absurdist and allegorical mini-narratives that are deliciously, darkly Russian. There are many stories available online; “Anton Mikhailovich spat, said 'yuck,' spat again, said 'yuck' again, spat again, said 'yuck' again and left,” one begins.
• Russian women are known for their savvy style; it’s no coincidence that most luxe labels have brick-and-mortar stores in Moscow, one of the best-dressed cities in the world. Check fashion blogsRussian Doll, Nevskiypodium and Russian Fashion Blog for more modern inspiration.
• Russian Arkis a 2002 film shot entirely in the Winter Palace, one of the stunning buildings that makes up the Russian State Hermitage Museum. One single, 96-minue Steadicam shot, the film tours the massive museum, meeting a cast of fictional and historical characters in each incredible room.

(You might also want to learn the words to this song, a Russian New Year’s tune — we promise the awkward dancing is part of the tradition.)

Most importantly, take time to revel in the elaborately designed decor, crafted by designer Douglas Little.

“We wanted to do something grand and cinematic, Dr. Zhivago-style, so we asked friends who are artists and set designers and performers to help turn Justine's into a movie set for one night,” says Libaire. “We are creating a forest, bringing in snow machines and movie lights. Volk is 'wolf' in Russian, and the core of the idea is about opulence and formality on the outside, wildness on the inside that is ready to come out.”

We can’t think of a better place than the elegant East Side eatery to stage a snow-filled wonderland.

If you’re looking to sample some of Justine’s famous French-inspired cuisine, you’ll be out of luck for one night only, but you will be able to sample some traditional Slavic treats.

“We are not serving French food at all on New Year’s Eve,” says Libaire, “but will have stalls where we will sell great hot food, like baked potatoes with sour cream and bacon, or borscht. Oysters too!”

So, друзья (that’s “friends,” for all you non-natives), get your most authentic, opulent outfits ready, and start thinking about that midnight wish. If you need some party practice, St. Petersburg is ten hours ahead; you can check the live stream of RT, one of Russia’s largest news networks, for footage of the festivities.

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Festivities begin at 9 p.m. on December 31 at Justine’s Brasserie. Tickets are available online