As the Victory Day celebrations approach, several cities across Russia are preparing for a series of rehearsals that will temporarily disrupt traffic and public transport. The rehearsals for the Victory Parade, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, will see significant road closures and changes in public transport schedules in cities like Kaliningrad, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, and St. Petersburg.
In Kaliningrad, the city administration has announced that the center will be closed on May 7 and 8, 2025, due to rehearsals for the parade. The closures will take place from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM on both days. Traffic will be blocked on major thoroughfares including Lenin Avenue and Victory Square, affecting 11 key locations. The main event, along with the "Immortal Regiment" procession, is scheduled for May 9, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Additionally, on May 9, Butkova Street will be closed from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and fireworks will take place from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, necessitating further restrictions on Rumyantseva and Guards Avenue.
Public transport in Kaliningrad will also be affected. Tram and trolleybus number 7 will only operate until 3:30 PM on May 7, 8, and 9. Trolleybus number 1 will alter its route during the morning hours of the rehearsals, and various buses will follow adjusted routes in the evening of May 9.
Meanwhile, in Novosibirsk, the city will experience similar disruptions on the evening of May 7, 2025, as the center will be closed for the general rehearsal of the Victory Parade from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM. The closures will impact Krasny Prospekt and adjacent streets. Parking will be prohibited from 7:30 AM to 10:30 PM on May 7 in key areas, including Lenin Square and Yadrintsevskaya Street. On May 8, additional closures will occur, particularly on Deputatskaya and Plakhotnogo streets.
In St. Petersburg, the preparations for the parade will lead to significant traffic disruptions as well. On May 7, from 7:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Palace Square and nearby streets, including Nevsky Prospekt, will be closed. On May 8, similar closures will take place from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM. These measures are part of the lead-up to the main parade on May 9, where traffic will be halted across numerous streets and embankments in the city center. Additionally, commemorative events on May 9 will also lead to closures in Peterhof and Kronstadt.
Yekaterinburg is also bracing for traffic restrictions. The city's center will be closed on May 7, 2025, due to the general rehearsal for the Victory Parade, with restrictions lasting until noon. The closures will affect public transport and private vehicles alike, leading to significant delays. Many residents are expressing frustration over the disruptions, with some questioning the timing of the rehearsals. One local resident commented, "How are we supposed to get our kids to school or get to work? It's a disaster!"
In light of these rehearsals, the local authorities are urging citizens to plan their travel accordingly. The city of Yekaterinburg is also preparing for a large concert on May 9, featuring popular artists such as Yulia Parshuta and Stas Piekha, which adds another layer of excitement—and traffic management—to the celebrations.
As the rehearsals unfold, public safety remains a priority. Authorities have issued reminders that bringing pyrotechnics and alcoholic beverages to the parade is strictly prohibited, and attendees are required to carry identification. The use of drones is also banned during the events.
With the Victory Day celebrations just around the corner, cities across Russia are gearing up for a mix of solemn remembrance and festive celebration. Despite the inconveniences caused by the rehearsals, many citizens are looking forward to honoring the sacrifices made during the war and participating in the various events planned for May 9.
As preparations continue, residents are encouraged to stay informed about traffic changes and to participate in the commemorative events that honor the legacy of those who fought for their country. The upcoming days promise to be filled with both reflection and celebration, as communities come together to remember the past and celebrate the present.
