"Russia Day”

Russia’s Independence Day, or “Russia Day” as it’s formally called, is an important holiday to Russian people in Russia and abroad. 

History

Russia Day is one of Russia’s youngest holidays, having only been around since 1992. The day celebrates the establishing of Russia as an independent country after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, officially recognizing the day that the Declaration of the Sovereignty of the Russian Federation was signed. It also commemorates the creation of the post of the President of the Russian Federation (first taken by Boris Yeltsin), the national flag and the national anthem. Now it is used as an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of Russians worldwide as well as a general celebration of the Russian culture and identity. It is usually not a very political holiday, in the sense that politics are not usually mentioned or discussed.

Celebrations

Most major cities in Russia organize large public celebrations for Russia day. This includes concerts by famous musicians, kids’ activities, and fireworks at night. 

The holiday is now also used as an opportunity to give state awards to prominent Russians who have made significant accomplishments in the past year – in the sciences, humanities, arts and humanitarian activities. These official award presentations are broadly televised and attended by some of Russia’s most prominent political figures. There is a President’s Address, also televised, in the evening.