On May 9, 2025, the city of Samara will come alive with a series of festive events to commemorate Victory Day, celebrating the triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II. The centerpiece of the celebrations will be a grand parade on Kuibyshev Square, featuring approximately 30 military units and 40 pieces of military equipment. This event is expected to draw large crowds, eager to pay tribute to the heroes of the past.
The day will kick off at 9:00 AM with a solemn ceremony where wreaths and flowers will be laid at the Eternal Flame and the 'Grieving Mother' monument, honoring those who sacrificed their lives during the war. At 10:00 AM, the traditional military parade will commence, showcasing the strength and pride of the armed forces.
Following the parade, at 11:00 AM, the 'Immortal Regiment' procession will take place, allowing citizens to march in memory of their ancestors who fought in the Great Patriotic War. This poignant event will be complemented by a live broadcast from Red Square in Moscow, where President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to address the nation at 11:15 AM.
As the day transitions into evening, the festivities will continue on Kuibyshev Square. From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, a field kitchen will serve traditional dishes, allowing attendees to enjoy a taste of history. The highlight of the evening will be a festive concert starting at 5:00 PM, featuring a lineup of talented artists and creative groups from the Samara region, alongside renowned Russian pop stars.
Among the performers will be Sergei Voytenko, a Honored Artist of the Russian Federation, who will take the stage at 6:00 PM. Following him, at 7:20 PM, the beloved People's Artist of Russia, Larisa Dolina, will perform, captivating the audience with her powerful voice. The rock band 'Chaif' will close the concert at 8:30 PM, leading into a spectacular vocal and choreographic performance involving nearly 400 artists.
The evening will culminate in a dazzling fireworks display at 10:00 PM, launched from both the Volga River and Kuibyshev Square. This grand finale is expected to light up the night sky, marking the end of a day filled with remembrance and celebration.
The following day, May 10, 2025, will feature a military-sports festival titled 'Ready to Defend the Fatherland.' Scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM on the Volga embankment, this event will include 36 interactive venues and two stages, offering a variety of activities for participants of all ages.
Weather permitting, the 'Rus' aerobatic team is set to perform an air show at 4:00 PM, showcasing their impressive skills on L-39 aircraft, adding an exhilarating element to the festivities.
These events not only honor the past but also foster a sense of community and patriotism among the residents of Samara. As Alexander Fetisov, the First Deputy Governor of the Samara Region, stated: "The festive concert will be dedicated to the heroic events of the Great Patriotic War and the special military operation." This sentiment reflects the importance of these commemorative events in preserving the memory of those who fought for their country.
In summary, the Victory Day celebrations in Samara promise to be a memorable occasion, filled with honor, pride, and community spirit. As residents gather to participate in the parade, concerts, and other activities, they will not only celebrate the historical significance of the day but also reinforce their bonds as a community dedicated to remembering their shared history.