On February 23rd, Russia celebrates Defender of the Fatherland Day, honoring military personnel and the sacrifices made for the nation. The day typically features various cultural and community events, recognizing the valor of individuals who have served the country. Notably, February 23rd will be marked by changes to the holiday schedule for 2025, with the traditional long weekends expected to be absent this year.
For 2025, Defender of the Fatherland Day falls on a Sunday. Instead of extending the holiday to the following Monday, February 24th, the Russian government has decided to shift the observance of the holiday to May 8th. This move aims to extend vacation time during the spring's warmer months, creating two long weekends around May Day.
This year, the shift has raised concerns among many Russians who anticipated using the holiday for activities and family gatherings. The upcoming change means working right after the weekend, potentially affecting plans for those hoping to celebrate the day more fully. February’s holiday schedule will consist of eight days off including weekends from the 1st to the 2nd, 8th to 9th, 15th to 16th, and finally February 22nd and 23rd before heading back to work on February 24th.
Despite the schedule changes, several initiatives are underway to commemorate Defender of the Fatherland Day with enthusiasm. One notable effort is the International Drawing competition titled ‘Defenders of the Fatherland. Zavetam Verny’, organized by the Museum of Victory alongside the state fund ‘Defenders of the Fatherland’. This project invites participants, particularly from various Russian regions, to send their artistic depictions capturing the essence of heroes who have defended the nation throughout its history.
With more than 10,000 submissions already logged, young artists are encouraged to showcase their talent using various artistic techniques. Participants ranging from ages six and above may portray scenes showing warriors such as the famed Dmitry Donskoy and Ermak, or contemporary defenders. “The drawing competition is dedicated to the Year of Defender of the Fatherland. Authors depict warriors, heroes of our country from different eras,” reported by the Museum of Victory.
Submissions for this artistic endeavor are accepted until February 12th, 2025, with the results set to be revealed at the end of the month during an awards ceremony at the Museum of Victory, ensuring recognition for budding artists. The competition offers various categories based on age, and certain special nominations have been included, such as the 'Heroes of the Great Patriotic War' initiative supported by Russian media organizations like ‘Russia Today’.
With changes to the traditional holiday schedule and the introduction of creative competitions, the observances surrounding February 23rd are shaping up to take on modern significance. The adjustments reflect Russian authorities' aspirations to optimize holiday periods, promoting longer vacations during periods considered more appealing for leisure and travel. The Deputy Head of the Labor Inspectorate, Lyudmila Danilina, stated, “Work performed on February 23rd must be paid at least double,” reinforcing the rights of workers during this significant day.
While this restructuring may challenge some plans for individuals seeking extended rest during February, it opens up opportunities later on with prolonged weekends suggested around May, encouraging summer activities and outdoor engagements. The forthcoming celebrations not only celebrate the present but pay homage to the past, inspiring the younger generation through art and recognition of those who have served the country.
Final outcomes from the drawing competition will surely contribute positively to the celebrations of Defender of the Fatherland Day, fostering national pride and community engagement. By connecting art with honor, these events aim to cultivate awareness and appreciation of the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout Russian history.