Origin & history
Victory Day commemorates the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945), the Eastern Front of World War II. The German Instrument of Surrender was signed late on May 8, 1945 (Moscow time already May 9), prompting Josef Stalin to decree May 9 as Victory Day. The first celebration took place on June 24, 1945, with a grand parade in Moscow's Red Square, though the day was a working holiday until 1965, when it became a non-working day under Leonid Brezhnev. The holiday originated as a symbol of immense sacrifice and resilience, with over 27 million Soviet citizens lost in the war.
Customs & traditions
The centerpiece is the military parade on Red Square in Moscow, showcasing troops, tanks, missiles, and aircraft. Across Russia, parades and processions occur, with veterans wearing medals and uniforms. The 'Immortal Regiment' march, a post-Soviet tradition, sees civilians carrying portraits of relatives who fought. Evenings feature fireworks, concerts, and wartime songs like 'Den Pobedy'. Traditional foods include 'soldier's kasha' (buckwheat) and black bread, though many families feast on grilled meats and salads. The St. George ribbon, black and orange, is worn as a symbol of victory and remembrance.
Why it is celebrated
Victory Day symbolizes national pride and the collective memory of the war's horrors and heroism. It honors the survivors and the fallen, reinforcing Russia's identity as a nation that defeated fascism. For many, it is a day of gratitude and mourning, reflecting the war's deep scars. In contemporary Russia, the holiday also serves as a tool for patriotic education and national unity, showcasing military might and fostering respect for veterans.