One of the most popular holidays in Russia is VICTORY DAY. Every May 9th, all of Russia celebrates the day of victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. The country shows respect in many ways to the great suffering, courage, and heroes of the war. The most popular way of showing respect is wearing the orange and black St. George’s ribbon. The main ceremonial event 2012 in St. Petersburg and all of Russia is scheduled for May 8th and 9th.

In St. Petersburg, the ceremonies will begin on Nevsky Prospect at 9:30 am. Thousands of people come every year to law flowers at the memorial plaques around the city center.

On May 8th, there will be a great ceremony for the great veterans and public. On May 9th in the afternoon, the people of St. Petersburg will see a great military parade including the participation of military equipment on Palace Square. From Palace Square, the event will turn to a march of veterans and military hardware to Nevsky Prospect to Ploshad Vosstaniya. On Ploshad Vosstaniya, there will be another great concert on May 9th. 

The great festivities on May 9th will include the parade of troops on Palace Square and Nevsky Prospect starting at 10:00. Then after this, there will be a memorable military salute from the Peter and Paul Fortress, signaling victory in the Great Patriotic War. This will occur at 12:00. Then at 16:45, there will be a beautiful ceremony of lights, in remembrance of those who gave their lives in order to defeat the German invaders. Then at 18:00, another festive program will occur at Palace Square in remembrance of Victory Day. Then another amazing sight will take place at 22:00 at the Peter and Paul Fortress. A great firework show will light up the Neva River and city center, in a sight that promises to be remembered for a lifetime. 

Victory Day in Russia is not just any holiday, it is the day in which people show their love and respect to the heroes of the Soviet Union, in which fought brilliantly for the freedom and love of their country. The least we can do is to show our great appreciation and respect to those on the 9th of May. Come out and show your respect and appreciation at a daylong event that promises to amaze all who come out.

• Get 44% Victory Day Discount on Boat Trip & Fireworks