On June 12, the whole of Russia takes a day off: people head to the countryside or gather for concerts on the main city squares. But what exactly is this holiday? How is it celebrated? And what was celebrated on this date before?
June 12 became a public holiday after the collapse of the USSR. At that time, all former Soviet republics — now independent countries — established their own Independence Days.
Today, June 12 is celebrated as Russia Day.
The History of Russia Day
On June 12, 1990, the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the RSFSR (Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic) was signed. In 1992, the RSFSR was officially renamed the Russian Federation.
From that point on, June 12 became a non-working day. However, for the first couple of years, it was celebrated specifically as the anniversary of the signing of the declaration.
Between 1993 and 2002, the holiday became commonly known among Russians as Independence Day — even President Boris Yeltsin referred to it this way in his official addresses.
But officially, the holiday remained “the Day of the Declaration” until 2002.
Only in 2002 did it officially become known as Russia Day — and that name has stuck ever since.
Fun fact: On June 12, 1991, Russia held its first-ever presidential election, which was won by Boris Yeltsin.
How Is Russia Day Celebrated?
Across the country, festive events and public programs are held, culminating in grand fireworks.
Everyone connected to Russia celebrates the day in their own way: You can watch Russian films, visit cultural exhibitions in your country, or simply read about Russia’s history with your children.
In Moscow, the State Kremlin Palace hosts an official awards ceremony where national honors are presented.
It’s no surprise that this holiday was once called “Russia’s Independence Day.”
Russia Day celebrations resemble the way Independence Days are marked in other countries: people wave flags, sing the national anthem, and express their love for their homeland.
Does Russia Have a Thanksgiving Day?
Russia doesn’t have a direct equivalent of Thanksgiving. However, traditional holidays such as Honey Spas, Apple Spas, and Nut Spas reflect the spirit of gratitude to nature and each other for abundance and happiness.
On these days, Russian people thank nature and those around them for the blessings of the season.
In 2025, Russia Day will be followed by a 4-day weekend, making it a great time to escape to the countryside or attend one of the many events — from traditional fairs to massive concerts with long firework shows.
This day is a symbol of patriotism and national pride for the many ethnic groups living across the Russian Federation.
