Russia Day
Russia Day is a holiday observed on the 12th of June every year, and it has been observed in the Russian Federation since 1992. This holiday celebrates the democratic reforms in the country when the Russian Federation adopted the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic on June 12th, 1990.
Russia (National holiday)Because this holiday is an official holiday in Russia, most schools, banks, and public offices are closed on this day. This is a day when the president gives speeches, the people sing the national anthem, and flags are hoisted all over the country. People may also attend concerts, watch fireworks displays, and participate in other celebratory activities.
The History of Russia Day
On December 26th, 1991, the Soviet Union was officially dissolved, and the Russian Federation was established. This was followed by the proclamation of June 12th as an official holiday by the Supreme Soviet of Russia in 1992 and was called Russian Independence Day. In 2002, it was renamed Russia Day because there was some confusion among Russian citizens over the name and from whom Russia had gained independence.
Amazing Facts About Russia
Want to learn more about Russia? If you do, then we’ve crafted a list of Russia-related trivia that everyone can enjoy—regardless of whether it’s Russia Day or not. So without further ado, let’s roll up our sleeves and learn a few bits of trivia.
- By area, Russia is the largest country in the world. It has a total area of over 17,075,400 square kilometers.
- Russia covers more than one-ninth of the Earth’s land area.
- Russia is 1.8 times larger than the U.S.
- In Russia, it is considered bad luck to give an even number of flowers to women.
- The Russian Olympic team arrived 12 days late to London for the games because they were still using the Julian calendar.
- The deepest subway in the world is the Metro of St. Petersburg, which is 100 meters deep.
- Russia has 25% of its territory in Europe and 75% of its territory in Asia. However, only 20% of its population lives in the Asian part of the country.
Customs, Traditions & Celebrations
Although this day is an official Russian holiday, many Russian citizens are still somewhat ambivalent towards the holiday. In a recent poll, only about one in five Russian citizens consider this day to have significant symbolic meaning, and most view this day as simply an excuse to have a day off from work and to have a little bit of fun.
Since this day essentially is a remembrance of when the Soviet Union fell, many Russians view this day with some animosity. However, that doesn’t mean Russia Day isn’t without its traditions or celebrations. For instance, there are many track and field events held right outside the Kremlin on this day.
Inside the Kremlin, there are often awards given out to scientists, writers, and other prominent Russians on this day for excellence in science, humanitarian causes, or culture. Other events that celebrate this day include fireworks displays, concerts, and public speeches that acknowledge the achievements of great Russians.
Russia (National holiday)
