On May 9, 2025, Arkhangelsk will come alive with a series of events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, also known as the Great Patriotic War. The day will feature a ceremonial laying of flowers, parades, concerts, and exhibitions, all designed to honor those who sacrificed their lives during the conflict.
The day’s activities will kick off at 10:00 AM at Peace Square, where a solemn ceremony will take place to lay flowers at the Monument to those who died during the Great Patriotic War. This poignant moment will set the tone for the day, as the community gathers to remember and pay tribute to the heroes of the past.
Following the ceremony, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, a ceremonial parade will commence, featuring a live broadcast of the Victory Parade in Moscow. This connection to the national celebration will allow Arkhangelsk residents to partake in the larger narrative of remembrance and pride that spans across the country.
At noon, the Immortal Regiment procession will take to the streets, allowing participants to honor their ancestors who fought in the war. This event, running from 12:00 to 1:00 PM, has become a cherished tradition, where people carry portraits of their family members who served, symbolizing the continuation of their legacy.
From 12:30 to 3:00 PM, the concert program titled "Front Brigades" will be held at various field kitchens set up around Peace Square. These kitchens will not only provide food but also serve as a gathering point for community members to enjoy music and camaraderie, reflecting the spirit of unity that characterized the wartime efforts.
The festivities will continue with themed events from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, including "Victory Songs," "Victory Record," "Victory Weapons," and "Victory Waltz." Each event is designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride, celebrating the resilience and bravery of those who fought for their country.
In addition to the activities at Peace Square, a procession of military historical equipment will take place along the streets of Arkhangelsk starting at 11:00 AM. This event will showcase a variety of military vehicles, allowing locals and visitors alike to appreciate the historical significance of the equipment used during the war.
Moreover, an exhibition of historical military equipment will be on display from 1:00 to 8:30 PM on Karl Liebknecht Street, providing an educational opportunity for those interested in learning more about the military history of the region.
Field kitchens will be operational at multiple locations, including the Northern Dvina embankment near the Northern Museum and near the Arkhangelsk - City of Military Glory stele, from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM. These kitchens will serve as a tribute to the wartime efforts and will provide traditional meals to attendees.
As the day progresses, a concert program will take place near the Arkhangelsk Drama Theater from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM, featuring performances that celebrate the cultural heritage of the region. A field kitchen will also be available in Petrovsky Park from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, further enhancing the communal atmosphere of the day.
At 6:55 PM, a broadcast of the All-Russian Minute of Silence will be observed near the Arkhangelsk Drama Theater, allowing everyone to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war. This moment of silence will be a powerful reminder of the heavy toll of conflict.
The day will culminate in a spectacular festive salute, launched from a barge in the Northern Dvina water area near Krasnaya Pristan at 10:00 PM. This grand finale will be a visual celebration of victory and remembrance, lighting up the night sky in a fitting tribute to the heroes of the past.
In addition to the events in Arkhangelsk, the Volga region will also host two simultaneous festive salutes on the same day, both set to launch at 10:00 PM. The first salute will be near the Hero category, best viewed from the Nizhnevolzhskaya and Verkhnevolzhskaya embankments, as well as from Minin and Pozharsky Square. This connection between regions highlights the national significance of Victory Day across Russia.
On May 7, 2025, an aerostat with a large St. George ribbon was spotted flying over the city of Bor, serving as an early celebration of the upcoming Victory Day festivities. This visual display has sparked excitement among residents and serves as a reminder of the patriotic spirit that unites the country during this important time of year.
As Arkhangelsk prepares for this momentous occasion, the community is reminded of the importance of remembrance and the collective effort to honor those who fought for freedom. The events planned for May 9, 2025, promise to be not only a celebration of victory but also a heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices made by countless individuals during one of history's most significant conflicts.
