As Russia prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II on May 9, 2025, cities across the nation are gearing up for a series of grand celebrations, highlighted by military parades, cultural events, and various community activities.
The centerpiece of the festivities will be the Victory Parade on Red Square in Moscow, which is set to begin at 10:00 AM. This year, attendance will be limited to those holding special invitation tickets, primarily veterans and their companions, as well as government officials and representatives from various sectors. The parade will feature infantry columns comprising military personnel from Russia and allied nations, alongside cadets from military academies and veterans of the Great Patriotic War.
Following the infantry, a procession of over 130 units of military equipment will roll through the streets, with the iconic T-34 tank leading the way. Spectators can expect to see a range of modern military hardware, including the T-90M tank, Typhoon-K armored vehicles, and Iskander missile systems. The parade will also be accompanied by an aerial display featuring fighter jets and helicopters, with the best viewing spots identified along major thoroughfares such as Leningradsky Prospekt and Tverskaya Street.
In addition to the main event in Moscow, cities like Novosibirsk, Tyumen, and Brest are hosting their own celebrations. In Novosibirsk, the day will kick off at 6:00 AM with a patriotic event titled "And the City Learned About Victory!" aimed at recreating the atmosphere of May 1945. This will be followed by a military parade at 10:00 AM, showcasing the troops of the Novosibirsk garrison. The day will also feature the "Immortal Regiment" procession at 10:45 AM, where citizens will march in honor of their relatives who fought in the war.
Brest is similarly embracing the spirit of commemoration, with a diverse program that includes tree planting and a forum of hero cities. Residents will gather to plant 80 trees in honor of the victory, and various cultural activities are planned, including a theatrical performance and a concert. The main events will take place on May 8 and 9, culminating in a grand concert and fireworks display in the evening.
Meanwhile, in Tyumen, the "Immortal Regiment" procession will also return to an in-person format for the first time since 2022. The procession, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2007, will see participants carrying portraits of family members who served during the war. This year, public transport in Tyumen will operate on a weekend schedule to accommodate the large crowds expected for the celebrations.
In Novokuznetsk, the city will host a series of thematic events, including concerts and exhibitions of military equipment. The main parade is scheduled for 10:00 AM, followed by a variety of celebratory activities throughout the day, such as concerts, a victory-themed relay race, and cultural programs across different districts.
As part of the festivities, various cities are also ensuring that veterans are honored with special events, including concerts and community meals. In many places, large screens will be set up in public areas to broadcast the main parades, allowing those who cannot attend in person to participate in the celebrations.
Overall, the 80th anniversary of Victory Day is shaping up to be a significant occasion, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War while fostering a sense of national pride and unity among citizens.
