When is Russia Day?

Russia Day is a national holiday celebrated across Russia on June 12th. If the holiday falls on a weekend, then a substitute holiday on a weekday is often declared. For example, when it lands on a Tuesday or Thursday, the following Monday or Friday may also become a day off. This tradition allows citizens to enjoy an extended break while observing the National Day of the Russian Federation.

Russia Day commemorates the formal adoption of the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Russian Federation on June 12th, 1990. This historic act declared independence from the USSR and marked the start of a new political chapter for the country.

Is Independence Day of Russia public holiday

Russia’s Independence Day, widely recognized as Russia Day, is indeed a public holiday. Each year on June 12, people take part in nationwide celebrations. The day highlights the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Federation in 1990, which remains a key turning point in modern Russian history.

On this day, people enjoy an official day off and gather to celebrate through cultural ceremonies, lively concerts, and colorful fireworks. Families spend time together, and the atmosphere feels both proud and joyful, reflecting the unity of the nation.

History of Russia Day

The history of Russia Day dates back to 1991, when the world’s largest country began reshaping its identity. The holiday has changed its name twice. It was originally called Independence Day, but official documents never fully adopted this title. According to surveys, many Russians still use the phrase “Independence Day,” even though its formal name evolved. A survey by the Levada Center in May 2003 showed that 65% of respondents believed the day represented the Independence Day of Russia.

In 1994, Boris Yeltsin declared it a national holiday. Soon after, it was renamed to the “Day of the adoption of the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Russian Federation.” This title emphasized the renewed independence of the country, the creation of the post of President, the adoption of the historical national flag, and the introduction of a new national anthem. Finally, on February 1st, 2002, the holiday was officially renamed to Russia Day, the name it holds today.

During this part of the year, many websites and communities create a festive counter or countdown to mark the approach of June 12. These tools build anticipation and add a more festive feeling for people eager to celebrate.

Capital of Russia

The capital of Russia is Moscow, the largest city in the country. Located on the Moskva River in Central Russia, the city has a population of over 13 million residents within its limits, 19.1 million in the urban area, and 21.5 million in the metropolitan area. Covering 2,511 square kilometers (970 sq mi) in the city limits and 26,000 square kilometers (10,000 sq mi) in the metropolitan zone, Moscow is one of the world’s largest cities and the most populous city in Europe.

First documented in 1147, Moscow became the capital of the Grand Principality of Moscow, which led to the unification of Russian lands in the 15th century. With the proclamation of the Tsardom of Russia in 1547, the city served as the political and economic center until Peter the Great shifted the capital to Saint Petersburg in 1712. After the Russian Revolution, the capital returned to Moscow in 1918, making it the center of the Soviet Union. Following the dissolution of the USSR, it remained the capital of the Russian Federation, experiencing continued growth.

Today, Moscow is recognized as the northernmost and coldest megacity in the world. It functions as a federal city and stands as a political, economic, cultural, and scientific center of Eastern Europe. It boasts strong urban economies, a high number of billionaires, and global hubs like the Moscow International Business Center. Events such as the 1980 Summer Olympics and the 2018 FIFA World Cup brought international attention. The city is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Red Square, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, and the Moscow Kremlin, which serves as the seat of power for the Government of Russia.

With its vast transit network, including four international airports, ten railway terminals, a tram system, a monorail system, and the Moscow Metro—the busiest in Europe—the city connects millions daily. Furthermore, with over 40% of its land covered in greenery, Moscow is counted among the greenest cities in the world.