Russia Day 2027

Why Russia celebrates 12 June On 12 June 1990, the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic issued a Declaration of State Sovereignty — asserting the primacy of Russian law over Soviet law.

The historical and symbolic centre of Russia — the fortified complex in Moscow houses the president and St Basil's Cathedral.

On 12 June 1990, the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic issued a Declaration of State Sovereignty — asserting the primacy of Russian law over Soviet law. A year later, on 12 June 1991, Boris Yeltsin became the first democratically elected president of Russia. The date was officially adopted as Russian Independence Day in 1992, later renamed Russia Day.

Russia Day celebrates the establishment of the modern Russian Federation as a distinct state separate from the Soviet Union. The holiday was controversial when first introduced — many Russians saw no reason to celebrate independence from a state they themselves dominated. Over time, Russia Day became more of a general patriotic holiday, rebranded around Russian culture, history and national pride.

The day is marked with a presidential address, fireworks displays in Moscow and other major cities, and the Kremlin's ceremony for state awards. Red Square fills with concerts and cultural events. In recent years the holiday has taken on more nationalist overtones as Russia's political direction has shifted.

• 1991Russian Federation declares sovereignty from the Soviet Union
• 1993Russian constitution adopted following the constitutional crisis
• 2014Crimea annexed by Russia — significant shift in post-Soviet geopolitics

• Currency: Russian ruble
• Language: Russian
• Driving: on the right
• Capital: Moscow
• Phone: +7
• Emergency: 112
• Electricity: 230 V, 50 Hz, plugs C/F