August 31 — Miner's Day: history and traditions of the holiday, how to congratulate

In Russia, one of the oldest holidays is celebrated at the end of summer — Miner's Day. On this day, workers of the coal mining industry are congratulated, whose work is the key to the successful development of the economy. Izvestia tells us when they celebrate Miner's Day in 2025 and how to congratulate them on their professional celebration.

When is Miner's Day in 2025

The tradition of honoring coal miners and production leaders appeared in Soviet times and has been continued in modern Russia. The holiday is celebrated annually on the last Sunday of August. In 2025, the date falls on the last day of summer, August 31.

The history of a professional holiday

It is believed that Miner's Day was founded in honor of the founder of the Stakhanov movement, Alexei Stakhanov, who set a world record for coal mining in 1935. Together with his team, he extracted 102 tons of coal at a rate of 7 tons, thereby glorifying the work of the miners.

The record was set at the end of August. Later, this was the time chosen for the mass celebration. The decision to hold the holiday in 1947 was made by the Ministry of Coal Industry. It was first celebrated on August 29 a year later.

Since then, Miner's Day has been celebrated annually. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the tradition did not disappear. To this day, the last Sunday of the month is considered a professional holiday for miners. Celebrations are also held in Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and other CIS countries on this date.

How to celebrate Miner's Day in Russia

On this day, the miners are congratulated by the heads of production, heads of regions and top officials of the state, including the President of Russia. Solemn events are held at enterprises honoring industry leaders. The best employees are awarded diplomas and awards.

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Mystical beliefs of ancient miners

An extensive program with concerts, professional skills contests and sports competitions is organized for miners and their families. During the holiday, they do not forget about veterans and miners who died while working in the mines. Therefore, the day traditionally begins with the laying of flowers at the monuments to the dead.

Miner's Day is celebrated on a large scale in the Amur, Kemerovo, Krasnoyarsk regions, the Republic of Khakassia and other mining centers. The celebrations are covered by both local and federal media.

What events will take place on Miner's Day in 2025

Kuzbass residents will traditionally be congratulated by the Strizhi aerobatic team. This year, the pilots will perform in Novokuznetsk and Kemerovo. The guests of the festival will be able to see the most spectacular elements of aerobatics — barrels, loops and turns. In the evening, a concert program will begin, which will be completed by fireworks. The celebrations will last two days.

In Nyurenga (Yakutia), a commemorative rally is planned at the monumental stele erected in memory of the miners, a march of labor collectives and performances by creative collectives of the city. The evening will culminate with a festive fireworks display.

In Krasnoyarsk, the celebrations will begin with awarding the miners. They will be awarded departmental, regional and corporate awards, including the honorary badge "Miner's Glory". In Vorkuta (Komi Republic), employees of Vorkutaugol will be awarded. During two days, on August 30 and 31, a "Miner's Race" and a "Miner's Relay Race" will also take place here, during which the miners will demonstrate their skills.

How to congratulate on Miner's Day on August 31

Russians living in other cities can congratulate miners on their professional holiday. To do this, it is enough to post a post on social networks with the hashtag #Money 2025. It can be supplemented with a themed postcard and a short wish. Here are some examples of congratulations:

"Today is Miner's Day — congratulations on the holiday of all miners! On this day, I wish only the most important thing: that the number of descents into the mine should always be equal to the number of ascents. And your health was as strong as the hardest ore you extracted from the bowels of the earth!"

"Happy holidays, miners! I wish you good health, family warmth and professional success. May your every day be safe and fruitful, and your salary be generous, like a new coal deposit!"

"Miners, heroes of our time! Today is your holiday. May your every day be filled with joy, success and recognition. I wish you good health and good luck in your work! Easy descents and ascents!"

"Miner's Day is an important professional holiday. It is dedicated to the courageous and fearless people who provide the country with coal and other minerals. I sincerely wish you good health, great strength and good luck. May there be more bright days in your life!"

"Today is a special day — Miner's Day! Only the strong in spirit could choose this profession, because not everyone would dare to go down to such a depth, risking their health and life. I wish your working days to be peaceful, and that your family will always be waiting for you at home!"

Earlier, Izvestia told how Metallurgist's Day is celebrated in Russia.