On January 25th, Russia celebrates two significant occasions: Russian Student Day and Tatiana's Day. These celebrations have become intertwined over the years, especially as various leisure activities across Moscow invite both students and women named Tatiana to enjoy free or discounted events. It’s the perfect opportunity to recall the charming tune "Ah, Tanya-Tanya-Tanichka..." and select entertainment suited to one’s taste.
On this special day, the Moscow Cable Car will offer free rides for all Tatianas. They can also grab a ski pass for one hour to enjoy the slopes at Vorobyovy Gory without any cost. Meanwhile, students will receive 50% off their cable car tickets purchased online, and the chance to ski for free for one additional hour with the purchase of the first hour.
The city is also hosting ice skating events, with artificial ice allowing for prolonged enjoyment without the worry of cold. Various venues are ready to welcome students and Tatianas, including Luzhniki, Gorky Park, and the movie park Moskino, where admittance is granted by showing either student ID or personal identification. At the skating rink by the Northern River Station, they can rent skates free of charge.
Vystavka of Achievements of National Economy (VDNH) provides numerous offerings as well. On this day, free entry to the exhibition "You Look Great at 100!" at the Moscow Transport Museum, the "Cosmonautics and Aviation" Center, the "ATOM" Museum, the Slavic Writing Museum "Word," the "Burana" complex, and the Tretyakov Gallery's exhibition will be available. Tatianas can skate for free at the VDNH rink throughout the day, and students can buy tickets for the evening performance starting at 7 PM for just 300 rubles. Tatianas also have access to complimentary tickets available at the skating rink’s client centers.
Students will receive special discounts, including 20% off at the Air Tramway and at the "House of Fears" within the family-themed park "Orion." The celebration continues with students being able to ride on the Moscow Sun Ferris Wheel at reduced rates, with additional perks for those presenting their student ID.
It’s noteworthy to mention the origins of these festivities. Since 2005, Russian Student Day has been officially celebrated on January 25th. This date marks the founding of Moscow State University (MSU) back in 1755, which we recognize today as one of the most prestigious educational institutions.
Together with the celebration of students, January 25 holds additional significance as it corresponds with the feast day of St. Tatiana, regarded as the patroness of education and those within the academic sphere. This special intertwining of culture and education is celebrated across Russia and the community surrounding the university.
MSU this year marks its 270th anniversary, with its founding influencing the educational pathway of countless students and academia. The university was established through the efforts of the notable scholar Mikhail Lomonosov and his associate Ivan Shuvalov, who appointed this date to honor Shuvalov's mother, Tatiana. St. Tatiana was also revered as the early Christian martyr associated with higher learning.
The university boasts of around 50,000 students spread across its 40 faculties, making MSU not just a local landmark, but a pillar of higher education recognized globally. The pride of MSU lies within its role as a beacon of progress for thousands of its graduates, many of whom shaped Russia’s scientific, cultural, and artistic landscapes.
Its current Rector, Viktor Antonovich Sadovnichiy, continually emphasizes the significant relationship between the university and Russia's growth, stating, "There would be no Russia without Moscow University, but the university is truly impossible without Russia!" This reflects the institution's essence as both emblematic and constructive within the national fabric.
General celebrations reflect the joy and significance of the student experience; it recognizes aspirations and dreams, which are hallmarks of student life. The camaraderie and connections formed during this time are invaluable, and as expressed by the community, "Happy holiday, dear students!" Each lecture is not merely educational but rather milestones toward broader horizons.
This year marks yet another celebration of student spirit and unity, as events and activities flourish throughout Moscow, inspiring generations ready to take their next steps boldly. Merry Russian Student Day and Tatiana's Day to all!