The Day of Russia symbolises the birth of a modern state and its prosperity. In 2024, the date has a special significance, since it is the 30th anniversary of the Declaration of State Sovereignty. 

“Together with the changes taking place in the world and the transition to a fairer multipolar world order, the importance of Russia Day in the minds of citizens is changing over time. Russia Day in 2024 is first and foremost a symbol of our country’s unique identity. The modern history of Russia has unambiguously answered the question of who we are and who we want to be,” Ruslan Grebnev Deputy Dean of the Global Processes Department at Lomonosov Moscow State University for International Cooperation in an exclusive commentary to TV BRICS said.

History of Russia Day

The holiday is associated with the historical events of the late 20th century, when the foundations of the sovereign Russian state were laid. The history of this day begins in 1990, when the first Congress of People’s Deputies of the RSFSR adopted the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the RSFSR. This event became a key event on the way to Russia’s gaining political independence and autonomy. The declaration proclaimed the priority of the Constitution and laws of the RSFSR, as well as the country’s right to an independent domestic and foreign policy.

The holiday was established on 11 June 1992 by the resolution of the Supreme Soviet of the Russian Federation No. 2981-I “On the holiday of 12 June”. And in 1994, it received the status of a state holiday and the name “Day of Adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of Russia”. The change of the name to the familiar today and simpler variant took place in 2002.

Traditions of the Day of Russia

On this day, solemn events and festive concerts are held throughout the country, uniting people of different generations. At parades, exhibitions and festivals, national achievements in art, science and sports are demonstrated.

Ceremonies of presenting state awards to figures of science and art are also an attribute of the holiday. It has existed since 1995.

People lay flowers at monuments and memorials dedicated to historical events and outstanding personalities. In honour of the celebration, large-scale celebrations, performances, festivals are held throughout the country. The most colourful events will traditionally take place in Moscow on Red Square. Other cities from Kaliningrad to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky are also joining the celebrations. And although the events take place in different time zones, the culmination of the holiday is invariably a solemn fireworks display, to the sound of which Russians once again congratulate each other on Russia Day.

12 June is a day off. People arrange family picnics in parks and participate in festivals.

Symbolism of the holiday

One of the main symbols of the holiday is the flag of Russia – the tricolour. On 12 June, it can be found on squares, houses. Many residents of the country hang smaller copies of the flag on balconies.

Festive events on this day are often opened by singing the anthem of Russia.

Photo: TV BRICS