VICTORY DAY! Our congratulations!

What Do People Do?

Many people attend a local military parade and watch the fireworks at night on Victory Day. The biggest parade is in Moscow’s Red Square, showcasing Russia’s military forces. Most veterans wear their medals as they head to the parade or an event organized by a local veteran organization.
Another tradition is to give flowers, usually red carnations, to veterans in the street and to lay wreaths at the war memorial sites. Neighborhood schools may host a program prepared by the students, featuring wartime songs and poetry.
At home, families gather around a festive table to honor surviving witnesses of World War II and remember those who passed away. They may also watch favorite Soviet films based on the events of World War II, which is also known as the Great Patriotic War.

Public Life

Victory Day is a national holiday in Russia. Public offices, schools and most businesses are closed for the celebrations. There may be changes in public transport routes due to parades and street performances.

Symbols

Common symbols of Victory Day in Russia are:
 St. George ribbon – people wear this black-and-yellow ribbon on their clothes or tie it to car antennas as a sign of respect and remembrance.
 Red carnations – blood red is the color of the Soviet flag under which the veterans had fought. Laying an even number of red carnations at war memorial sites signifies mourning and remembrance.
 Red Star medal – a military distinction for bravery.

Immortal Regiment!

Tens of thousands of people have marched in Moscow and cities around the world to remember relatives who took part in World War Two.
The so-called Immortal Regiment procession sees people carrying flowers and portraits of loved-ones.
It followed Russia's annual Victory Day parade, which marks the anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two.