Want to learn about Holiday Traditions in Russia? It can be tricky to understand them at first, but you’re not alone. You’re here to discover what makes Russian holidays special.
I’m here to help, with simple explanations to show you why these holidays matter to people in Russia.
In this article, you’ll find:
- What Russia Day and Victory Day are all about
- How people celebrate Orthodox Christmas and New Year’s
- Traditions for Unity Day and Defender of the Fatherland Day
Ready to get started? By the end, you’ll know how to celebrate like a Russian and understand the meaning behind these important holidays.
- 1. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Russia Day
- 2. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Victory Day
- 3. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Defender of the Fatherland Day
- 4. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Unity Day
- 5. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Orthodox Christmas Day
- 6. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Russian New Year
- Holiday Traditions in Russia: A Recap
- FAQ
1. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Russia Day
Time & Location: Russia Day (in Russian: День России, or Den’ Rossii) is a national holiday in Russia. It is celebrated every year on June 12.
Before 2002, this day was called the Day of Adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty. This name means the day when Russia began to separate from the Soviet Union.
The important event happened on June 12, 1990. On that day, Russian leaders signed a document that gave Russia more control over its future. It was the first step toward becoming an independent country.
Event Details: Russia Day is a time when many people feel proud of their country. They remember good things that have happened in Russia.
Here are some ways people spend the day:
- Go to concerts and enjoy fireworks in many cities.
- Watch the President of Russia give awards to people who did important work in science, art, or helping others.
- Spend time with family and friends.
Some people do not celebrate this holiday tradition in Russia. When it started in 1994, some people were unhappy. For them, it reminded them of the end of the Soviet Union, which caused problems like losing jobs and money.
2. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Victory Day
Time & Location: Victory Day is celebrated in Russia on May 9 each year. It marks the end of World War II in 1945 when Nazi Germany surrendered to the Soviet Union. The surrender happened late on May 8, but because of the time difference, it was already May 9 in Moscow. That is why Russians observe the holiday on this date.
The first Victory Day was held in 1945. It became a public holiday in 1965. Today, it is still a non-working day, even if it falls on a weekend. In that case, the following Monday is usually given as a day off too.
Event Details: Victory Day honors those who served and died in the war. Many Russians have personal ties to this time, so the day feels emotional and important.
Parades are held across the country, with the biggest in Moscow. The President gives a speech, and a Minute of Silence is held in the evening. People visit war memorials, lay flowers, wear black and orange ribbons, and enjoy fireworks.
Russian-speaking communities abroad also mark the day. They may watch the Moscow parade or attend local events. Victory Day remains one of Russia’s most meaningful holidays.
See Also Holiday Traditions in Italy
3. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Defender of the Fatherland Day
Time & Location: In Holiday Traditions in Russia, Defender of the Fatherland Day is celebrated on February 23 in Russia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.
Event Details: This day honors people who serve or have served in the military. Over time, it also became a day to thank men in general. That’s why many call it “Men’s Day.”
On this day, women give small gifts to the men they know, such as husbands, fathers, brothers, sons, and coworkers. It’s common in workplaces and homes.
In Moscow, leaders of the country visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They place flowers and hold a moment of silence. The national anthem is played, and guards march in front of the crowd.
Later, a concert takes place at the Kremlin. At night, fireworks light up the sky in Moscow and many other cities. This day is a sign of respect and thanks to those who help protect the country.
4. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Unity Day
Time & Location: Unity Day is a public holiday tradition in Russia. It is held every year on November 4. This date remembers the year 1612 when the Russian people came together to end the control of Moscow by Polish and Lithuanian forces.
Event Details: Unity Day marks a time when people worked side by side to protect their country. It honors Kuzma Minin and Dmitry Pozharsky, who helped lead the fight.
Some people visit statues or monuments and leave flowers. Russian Orthodox Christians often attend church services. This day is also special because of the icon of Our Lady of Kazan, which many people respect. The service may include a march with prayers.
There are also concerts, public speeches, and events. Leaders on TV often talk about the importance of staying strong and working together.
For many, the day is simply a day off work or school. Some people miss the old holiday that was held on November 7 during the Soviet Union. A few groups may use the day for marches or protests.
See Also Holidays in Spain
5. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Orthodox Christmas Day
Time & Location: Orthodox Christmas Day is celebrated in Russia on January 7. This is because the Russian Orthodox Church uses the Julian calendar, which is different from the one used in most of the world. Christmas Eve is on January 6.
Event Details: Orthodox Christmas in Russia celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is one of the most important holiday traditions in Russia.
There is a 40-day fast before Christmas. During this time, many Christians do not eat meat or rich foods. This fasting period ends on January 6, when the first star appears in the sky. The star is a sign that Christmas has begun.
People then have a special dinner called the Holy Supper. It includes 12 dishes, which represent the Twelve Apostles. These dishes do not contain meat. After dinner, many people go to a church service. Others watch it on TV.
On Christmas Day, some people return to church in the morning for another service. Others stay home and enjoy time with their families. Some visit friends or relatives, and many give and receive presents. For many Russians, New Year’s Day is a bigger celebration, but Christmas is still important for those who follow church traditions.
People in Russia celebrate Christmas with family meals, church services, and visits. Traditional Christmas food includes roast pork, goose with apples, baked fish, jelly meat, pies, and pastries.
These may be filled with vegetables, mushrooms, cheese, fruit, or other simple ingredients. Popular sweets include cakes, cookies, berries, and honey. People also drink Kompot, kissel, and hot tea.
On Christmas Eve, the holiday of Svyatki begins. This is an old tradition. In the past, young women would use candles and mirrors to try to see the face of the man they would marry. This fortune-telling custom is becoming popular again in some places.
6. Holiday Traditions in Russia: Russian New Year
Time & Location: New Year’s Eve is celebrated on December 31, leading into January 1. This day is one of the most meaningful and widespread holiday traditions in Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union.
Event Details: The Russian New Year, known as Novy God (Новый Год), became the most important winter celebration during the Soviet period when religious holidays such as Christmas were no longer officially observed. Over time, people continued to enjoy the traditions of the New Year, and it remains a key event in the winter season.
People decorate New Year’s trees, give gifts, and celebrate with family and friends. A special figure, Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost), delivers presents to the children. He is often joined by Snegurochka, the Snow Girl, who is said to be his granddaughter.
On the evening of December 31, families gather for a festive dinner. Some of the popular foods include Olivier salad (also called Russian salad), herring under a fur coat, and sparkling beverages. At 11:55 p.m., many people watch a recorded speech by the president on TV, which reflects on the past year.
When midnight arrives, the Kremlin clock chimes and the national anthem plays. People make New Year’s toasts, exchange well-wishes, and give gifts. Fireworks are often seen in neighborhoods and city centers.
After midnight, people may go outside to light sparklers, build snowmen, or join others in celebrating. The following day, many continue the celebrations by visiting friends and relatives. It is also common to say “Happy New Year” to others on January 1.
Holiday Traditions in Russia: A Recap
Holiday traditions in Russia are a fun way to experience the country’s culture. These holidays bring families together to enjoy food, music, and fun. Each holiday has its meaning and shows what is important to the people.
From New Year’s to Christmas, Russian holidays are about celebrating and spending time with family. They help people remember their history and stay connected with their community. These holidays create special moments and let people experience Russia’s traditions.