On May 9, 2025, Moscow proudly celebrates the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, marking a significant historical milestone with a series of festive events throughout the city. The central attraction is the grand Victory Parade held at Red Square, where military personnel and veterans gather to honor those who fought for freedom and peace.
The day began early, with police securing the streets and blocking off major thoroughfares in anticipation of the celebrations. Although city officials have not officially announced a fireworks display to conclude the festivities, it is noted in documents that a salute is planned to light up the evening sky.
Live updates from the MSK1.RU website showcase the vibrant atmosphere in Moscow as citizens come out in droves to partake in the celebrations. Among them is Rustam, a military serviceman and participant in the Special Military Operation, who arrived at Red Square carrying a photograph of his grandfather. He shared a poignant story about his grandfather's bravery during the war, stating, "He participated in the defense of Moscow and the liberation of Prague. He suffered a serious injury and lost an eye; he died in 1944. We’ve come to pay tribute to the liberation of Europe and Russia from fascism."
In a spontaneous display of remembrance, more than a hundred people participated in the Immortal Regiment march along Tverskaya Street, carrying signs adorned with photos of their relatives who served in the war. They shouted "Hurrah!" and sang military songs, creating a powerful and emotional atmosphere. While the official Immortal Regiment event was only held online this year, the enthusiasm for honoring the past was palpable on the streets.
One participant, Aleksandr Lomakin, traveled from the Voronezh Region to honor his grandfathers, Ivan Lomakin and Grigory Karaulov. He recounted his grandfather's remarkable journey as a volunteer who faced numerous battles and hardships, saying, "My grandfather Ivan Alekseevich Lomakin went to war as a volunteer. He survived the Kharkov cauldron, defended Stalingrad, liberated Koenigsberg, and returned home only in 1946." His other grandfather, Grigory Karaulov, had an equally harrowing experience, having escaped from captivity multiple times and enduring severe injuries during the war.
As the day progressed, crowds flocked to the metro stations, creating a bustling scene underground as they navigated through the city. Some metro stations remained closed, adding to the congestion as the public sought to reach the main events.
Restrictions on traffic in the city center began to ease as the day wore on. The outer side of the Garden Ring was reopened, allowing for a smoother flow of vehicles. The parade itself was a spectacle, featuring military equipment, soldiers, and flying aerobatic teams, all of which drew cheers from onlookers lining the sidewalks.
At 10:00 AM, the area around Novy Arbat was packed with spectators, with only those with VIP seating able to find a vantage point. Military vehicles began to leave Red Square, making their way along the Garden Ring as the celebrations continued.
On Volgogradsky Prospekt, dozens of people gathered, some waving flags in the colors of the St. George ribbon and the tricolor. Many were eager to catch a glimpse of the military equipment, while others found themselves unable to cross the street due to closed underground passages.
In addition to the festivities in Moscow, other cities across Russia, such as Perm and Chelyabinsk, also held their own celebrations. Perm kicked off its Victory Day festivities with a parade and the Immortal Regiment procession on Oktyabrskaya Square, followed by concerts and a ten-minute salute to cap off the day. The atmosphere was lively, with some residents enjoying concerts on the embankment while others danced in nearby squares.
In Chelyabinsk, the day featured a similar lineup of events, including the laying of flowers at the Eternal Flame and a parade at Revolution Square. Governor Aleksey Teksler participated in the Immortal Regiment procession, carrying a photograph of his grandfather, who fought on the Leningrad and Volkhov fronts. The governor emphasized the importance of this event, stating, "The Immortal Regiment is not just a procession; it is a living connection between generations, a reminder of the great feat of our people. Thanks to them, we build our future and raise our children with pride."
As the sun began to set, the anticipation for the evening's fireworks grew, despite ominous weather forecasts predicting rain. Yet, the spirits of the participants remained high, reflecting the resilience and pride of the Russian people.
In the heart of the celebrations, many took a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war. The collective memory of the Great Patriotic War continues to resonate deeply within the hearts of those who gather each year to honor the fallen and celebrate the victory that shaped the nation's history.
This year's Victory Day festivities not only commemorate the past but also serve as a reminder of the enduring spirit of a nation united in remembrance and gratitude.
