Every year on May 9, Russia celebrates Victory Day. It is one of the most important holidays in the country. This day marks the end of World War II in Europe, when Nazi Germany surrendered to the Soviet Union in 1945. The Victory Day Parade is held in Red Square, in the heart of Moscow, and it is watched by millions of people in Russia and around the world.
Why is Victory Day Important?
Victory Day honors the brave soldiers and citizens who fought and died during the war, which Russia calls the Great Patriotic War. It was a long and painful war, and many families lost loved ones. Almost 27 million Soviet people died. Because of this, Victory Day is a time for both celebration and remembrance.
People remember their grandfathers and grandmothers who fought or lived through the war. Some wear black-and-orange striped ribbons called St. George’s Ribbons, a symbol of bravery and sacrifice. Many people also visit war memorials, bring flowers, and light candles for those who died.
What Happens During the Parade?
The Victory Day Parade is a big event. It usually begins at 10 a.m. in Moscow. Thousands of soldiers march in perfect lines. They wear military uniforms and represent different parts of the Russian army: the ground forces, the navy, the air force, and more.
The parade also includes military vehicles like tanks, missile systems, and armored cars. One of the highlights is when jets and helicopters fly over Red Square in formation. Some even release smoke in the colors of the Russian flag — white, blue, and red.
Important leaders, including the President of Russia, watch from a viewing stand. The president gives a speech to honor the heroes of the war and speak about the importance of peace, strength, and patriotism.
The Immortal Regiment March
Another special part of Victory Day is the Immortal Regiment. In this march, regular people walk through cities holding photos of their relatives who fought in the war. This is a way to say, “We remember them, and we are proud of them.” The march happens in many Russian cities and also in other countries with Russian communities.
Music, Fireworks, and Flowers
Victory Day is also full of music, especially old war songs that people know by heart. In the evening, many cities have fireworks displays to celebrate. People gather in parks and city squares, sing songs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
A Day of Unity and Patriotism
For many Russians, Victory Day is more than a holiday. It is a day of national pride. It reminds people of the hard times their country went through and how they came out strong. Even today, children learn about the war in school, and families tell stories to pass the history to younger generations.
How the World Sees It
Many other countries also remember World War II on different days, like May 8 in Europe and the United States. However, Russia’s Victory Day Parade is one of the largest and most well-known military parades in the world. Some people outside Russia see it as a show of military power, but for Russians, it is mainly about honor and memory.
Victory Day in Russia is a powerful mix of celebration and sadness, pride and pain. It brings together young and old, and it keeps the memory of history alive. Through the parades, marches, and ceremonies, Russians say to the world and to each other: “We remember. We are proud. We will never forget.”
