National Russian Day

Young woman in traditional Russian attire, enjoying a bowl of borscht, surrounded by iconic Russian architecture and a balalaika in the background.. — National russian day illustration

Ah, National Russian Day! A fantastic opportunity to celebrate all things Russian, from its rich history to its delicious cuisine. Let's dive into the fascinating world of Russia and discover what makes this day so special.

When is Russian Day?

It's national russian day on the 13th June.

The Origins of National Russian Day

Although not an officially recognized national holiday, National Russian Day has gained popularity over the years as a way to celebrate Russian culture and heritage. It's a day for people to come together and appreciate all aspects of Russian life, from its art and literature to its traditions and customs.

On June 13, 2015, the internet was buzzing with mentions of National Russian Day. It was a day filled with online discussions, articles, and social media posts, all sharing the love for Russia.

The Many Facets of Russian Culture

Russian culture is incredibly diverse and spans across various domains. Let's explore a few highlights:

Loved Ones

Family plays a central role in Russian culture, and National Russian Day is a perfect time to appreciate and spend time with loved ones. Whether it's a big family gathering or a simple phone call, expressing love and gratitude is always on the agenda.

Food

Oh, Russian cuisine. From hearty borscht to mouthwatering pelmeni, Russian dishes are a celebration of flavors. On National Russian Day, it's customary to indulge in a traditional Russian feast, complete with the famous Russian hospitality.

Sports

Russians have a strong sporting spirit, and National Russian Day is no exception. It's a day to cheer on your favorite Russian athletes and celebrate their achievements in various sports, such as ice hockey, football, and gymnastics.

Remembrance

National Russian Day is also an opportunity to pay tribute to the country's history and honor the brave soldiers who fought for Russia. Many people visit war memorials or participate in remembrance events to honor those who made sacrifices.

Did You Know?

In Russia, it's a tradition to dive into freezing cold water on Epiphany Day every year. This icy plunge is believed to wash away sins and bring good luck for the year ahead. Brrr, talk about a refreshing start to the year!

History behind the term 'Russian'

860 AD

Viking-Russian Trade Route

During the 9th century, the Vikings established trade routes that connected Scandinavia to the territories of the Slavic people in Eastern Europe. These trade routes facilitated cultural and economic exchange between the two regions, leading to the influence of Old Norse language and customs on the Slavic people. This period marked the beginning of the cultural fusion that would eventually contribute to the term 'Russian' as we know it today.

12th Century

The Rise of the Kievan Rus

In the 12th century, the Kievan Rus emerged as a powerful confederation of Slavic tribes in what is now present-day Ukraine and Russia. The Kievan Rus state played a significant role in the formation of the Russian identity. The term 'Russian' started to be used to describe the people who belonged to this confederation, signaling the growing sense of cultural and national cohesion.

1547

Ivan the Terrible's Coronation

In 1547, Ivan IV, commonly known as Ivan the Terrible, was crowned as the first Tsar of All Russia. Ivan's reign contributed to the consolidation of power in the region, bringing together various principalities and establishing the central authority of the Tsar. This period marked a significant milestone in the development of a distinct Russian identity and further popularized the term 'Russian.'

1721

The Russian Empire

Following the Great Northern War, Russia underwent a transformation with the establishment of the Russian Empire in 1721 under the reign of Peter the Great. The empire expanded rapidly, bringing in diverse cultures and territories under its rule. The term 'Russian' took on a broader meaning, encompassing the people of the multiethnic empire and solidifying their shared identity as subjects of the Russian Empire.

1917

Russian Revolution

The Russian Revolution of 1917 led to the overthrow of the Tsarist autocracy and the establishment of the Soviet Union. The term 'Russian' became closely associated with the citizens of the Soviet Union, highlighting their nationality within the socialist state. This era marked a significant shift in the socio-political landscape of Russia and further shaped the cultural and historical context of the term 'Russian.'

1991

Dissolution of the Soviet Union

The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 resulted in the emergence of the Russian Federation as an independent state. The term 'Russian' now primarily refers to the citizens and culture of this modern-day federation. Today, Russia is a diverse and vast country with a rich history and cultural heritage, making the term 'Russian' a reflection of its complex and multifaceted identity.