June 12 — Russia Day: history and traditions of the holiday

On June 12, Russians will celebrate one of the most important public holidays — Russia Day. This date represents the choice of a new political course that the country took at the end of the 20th century, and serves as a reminder of civic responsibility, respect for national history and the desire for unity. In 2025, the holiday falls on a Thursday. Read about its history and traditions in the Izvestia article.

Russia Day — 2025: the history of the holiday

The historical basis of the holiday was the meeting of the first Congress of People's Deputies of the RSFSR, held on June 12, 1990. On this day, the Declaration of State Sovereignty was adopted, a document that fixed the priority of the Constitution of the RSFSR over the union laws, proclaimed the equality of all forms of ownership and confirmed the principle of separation of powers. From that moment, a new era began in the development of Russian statehood.

Exactly one year later, on June 12, 1991, the first national elections of the President of the Russian Federation were held in the country. They were won by Boris Yeltsin, who became the first president of the Russian Federation and a symbol of the transition period. In 1994, June 12 was officially recognized as a public holiday, and already in 1995, the first solemn events were held in the Kremlin.

Initially, the date was called the Day of the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty, but this designation caused difficulties for a wide audience. In society, the holiday was more often called Independence Day, despite the absence of a formal act on Russia's secession from the USSR.

In 1998, President Boris Yeltsin proposed changing the name to a more concise and understandable one — Russia Day. The new name was legally fixed in 2002 with the entry into force of the updated Labor Code.

Over the years, the perception of the holiday has changed significantly. Russia Day has ceased to be perceived solely as a political date — it has become a reminder of the most important values, freedom, peace, civic responsibility and the desire for national unity. This day unites people, regardless of age, profession and region of residence.

Russia Day on June 12: what is the importance of this holiday

In 2025, Russians will rest for four days, from June 12 to June 15.

The meaning of the holiday, which is celebrated in Russia on June 12

Russia Day symbolizes the formation of a new model of government focused on democracy, civil liberties and the rule of law. In the public consciousness, this holiday is being strengthened as a sign of national unity and responsibility for the future of the country.

Traditions of celebrating Russia Day

Since 1995, the main state tradition dedicated to Russia Day has been the presentation of State Prizes in the Kremlin for outstanding achievements in science, culture, art and technology.

Concerts, mass celebrations, exhibitions, sporting events and patriotic actions are held in all corners of the country on this day. In Moscow, large-scale celebrations are taking place on Red Square and VDNKh, in Gorky Park and other central venues of the capital. In the evening, the sky lights up with fireworks.

The official symbol of the holiday is the Russian tricolor. It decorates administrative buildings, balconies of residential buildings, squares and transport. Everywhere, volunteers distribute ribbons painted with the colors of the flag.

The second important symbol of the holiday is the Russian national anthem, written to the music of Alexander Alexandrov and the words of Sergei Mikhalkov. It is played at most festive events across the country.

Spoil the holiday: what tricks to expect from scammers before Russia Day

Attackers can speculate on the topics of rest and payments by June 12.

What citizens are forbidden to do with the flag of the Russian Federation

The national flag can be used for private and public purposes: to place it on the facades of houses, to use it on private cars, to wear it at processions and rallies, to publish the image of the tricolor on social networks. These actions support the spirit of celebration and respect for state symbols.

However, any form of desecration of the flag — its deliberate damage, burning or disrespectful treatment — is tantamount to insulting symbols of state power and is punished in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation.

Earlier, Izvestia had prepared beautiful postcards and greetings for Russia Day.