Victory Day or 9 May is a national and eventful public holiday in Russia and Ukraine. It’s a day marking the capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union in the part of the Second World War. In the former Soviet Union this holiday was to remember the Red Army’s victory over the Nazi forces. Many solders made sacrifices to the victory and they are remembered on the day.
Russian servicemen march during the Victory Day parade in Moscow’s Red Square
Military parade through Kiev for Victory Day
Businesses, government offices and educational institutions are closed for celebrations. Generally speaking, there will be parades, street performances and many other activities.
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.
Full dress rehearsal for Victory Day parade in Russia
In fact, many countries have a 9 May celebration. And in Russia, the festive is celebrated massively. Prime Minister, Medvedev signed a decree that would extend the Victory Day celebrations from May 9, 2013 to May 12, 2013. On May 9 2015 the Moscow Victory Day Parade will take place in Red Square in Moscow. It is to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the capitulation of Nazi Germany in 1945.
Ukrainian cadets salute at the Unknown Soldier monument during a ceremony marking Victory Day.
This year’s parade is expected to be one of the biggest and largest to held in Russian history, being a landmark parade honoring the 70th anniversary. Presidents from several countries are expected to attend the event. It will take part 194 units of armored vehicles, 150 aircraft and helicopters, 14 thousand military. There will also be firework displays and presidential speeches.
Military vehicles on the Red Square
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 a favorite Soviet film based on the events of World War II, which is also known as the Great Patriotic War. These films are repeated each year but the audience seems to never grow tired of them.
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