May 21 is the Day of the Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet: history and Traditions

Every year, Russia celebrates the holiday of a military unit with a centuries—old history - Pacific Fleet Day (Pacific Fleet). Warships have repeatedly defended the borders of the Russian Federation and played a key role in many battles. Izvestia tells readers about the history and traditions of the significant day.

When is Pacific Fleet Day in 2025

Pacific Fleet Day is celebrated annually on May 21. In 2025, the holiday falls on a Wednesday.

Pacific Fleet Day – 2025: history and traditions of the holiday

The origins of the holiday date back to 1731. Then on May 10, the Senate issued a decree on the creation of the Okhotsk military fleet and a military port in the Pacific Ocean. For a long time, these naval defense points mainly played the role of trade passes, but in 1854 the flotilla acted as the vanguard in the naval battle with the British and French and opened the first page of its military achievements.

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Later, the fleet played an important role in other historical battles, such as the Russian—Japanese War in the Sea of Japan, during the revolution of 1905-1907, during the Great Patriotic War and the Soviet-Japanese Wars.In 1935, the fleet received its current name.

The date of the new style holiday has shifted from May 10 to May 21. In 1996, the flotilla's birthday was officially fixed in Russian legislation along with other holidays of the Russian Navy.

Vladivostok becomes the center of celebration on a significant date. On the day of the celebration, the St. Andrew's flag is raised in the port of the city, and solemn reviews are held in military units. The command presents the best fighters for awards.

A unique tradition of the holiday is the race on yawls — small boats with oars. The winner receives a special commemorative award from the Pacific Fleet.

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In memory of the exploits and sacrifices of the sailors of the flotilla, sailors and grateful citizens lay flowers at the memorial of the Military Glory of the Pacific Fleet. The media cover the heroic stories of the fleet in publications and reports.

On May 18, Russia also celebrated the day of another key naval unit, the Baltic Fleet. Izvestia told about the history of the flotilla, its exploits and the traditions of the significant date.