On May 9, 2025, Saint Petersburg celebrated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day with a series of grand events that brought together citizens and visitors alike. The city was alive with festivities, culminating in a spectacular salute at the historic walls of the Peter and Paul Fortress at 20:00.
As the sun set, the Rostral Columns were illuminated, and the Trinity and Palace Bridges glowed in the colors of the St. George's ribbon, creating a stunning backdrop for the evening's celebrations. Residents gathered along the Palace and Pirogov embankments to enjoy the fireworks, which were set to begin at 22:00, with additional viewing from Marsovo Pole.
The day’s events kicked off with the "Immortal Regiment" march, which saw an impressive turnout of 1.1 million participants, according to the press service of Smolny. The march included veterans of the Special Military Operation (SMO) alongside families, honored citizens, and representatives from various cultural organizations. The procession began at 14:00, as participants made their way through the city, chanting "Russia, Russia!" and proudly displaying portraits of their ancestors who fought in the Great Patriotic War.
Before the march, the city hosted a festive concert titled "From Victory to Victories" on Palace Square, featuring prominent artists such as Alexander Rosenbaum, Vasily Gerello, and Dmitry Pevtsov. The concert was a celebration of resilience and memory, with performances from various ensembles and cadets from the St. Petersburg Cadet Corps.
Throughout the day, additional events were held, including exhibitions of retro cars from the 1930s and 1940s near the Levashovsky Bread Factory. This display featured iconic vehicles such as the GAZ-AA and ZIS-5, adding a nostalgic touch to the celebrations. Meanwhile, the city’s public transport system, including the metro, operated under adjusted schedules due to the festivities, with certain stations, like "Gostiny Dvor," open only with restrictions.
In a heartwarming moment during the celebrations, police cavalryman Alexander Maly proposed to his girlfriend, Anna Sokolova, at St. Isaac's Square, amidst the festive atmosphere. The couple's engagement added a personal touch to the day, showcasing love and unity alongside the commemorations.
As the day progressed, the crowds grew denser, especially at Palace Square, where attendees enjoyed the concert and awaited the evening's fireworks. The streets were alive with the sounds of military music, as retro cars paraded through the city, further enhancing the celebratory mood.
In addition to the festivities in Saint Petersburg, other cities across Russia also marked Victory Day with parades and commemorative events. In Moscow, a significant military parade commenced at 10:00, featuring over 4,000 participants and approximately 80 units of military equipment, including the first-ever participation of Cossacks. The parade concluded with a salute at 22:00, as fireworks lit up the Moscow sky.
In Rostov-on-Don, a military parade took place at Theater Square, and residents were invited to participate in walking tours that highlighted the city’s history during the war. The "Victory Tram" also operated, providing a unique way for citizens to engage with the day’s commemorations.
As night fell, the anticipation for the fireworks grew. The salute in Saint Petersburg was not only a visual spectacle but also a symbolic gesture of remembrance and honor for those who sacrificed their lives during the war. The fireworks display was set to last approximately ten minutes, marking the end of a day filled with pride, reflection, and celebration.
With the clear skies and pleasant weather, the atmosphere in the city was nothing short of festive. Petersburgers and visitors alike were treated to a beautiful day, filled with events that honored the past while fostering a sense of community and national pride.
Overall, the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in Saint Petersburg was a resounding success, with millions coming together to remember and celebrate the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War. The city’s rich history and vibrant culture shone through in every event, making it a memorable day for all.
