Defender of the Fatherland Day in Russia honors the men and women serving in the Russian Armed Forces and all who defend the nation. It is also widely observed as Men's Day, celebrating bravery, duty and patriotism.

When is Defender of the Fatherland Day?

Defender of the Fatherland Day in Russia is celebrated on February 23 every year.

The following is the list of Defender of the Fatherland Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Defender of the Fatherland Day?

Defender of the Fatherland Day traces its roots to the early years of Soviet Russia. The holiday originated in 1918, during the Russian Civil War (1917–1922), a turbulent period following the October Revolution.

The Bolshevik government, led by Vladimir Lenin, established the Workers' and Peasants' Red Army on January 28, 1918 (February 10 in the Gregorian calendar). A few weeks later, on February 23, 1918, mass volunteer recruitment events were held across Russia to strengthen the Red Army against advancing German forces near St. Petersburg. Although early Soviet historians later exaggerated the military success of that day, it became symbolically associated with the birth of the Red Army.

In 1919, February 23 was officially declared "Red Army Day", commemorating the formation of the Soviet military. The holiday quickly became one of the most significant annual celebrations in the Soviet calendar, honoring the soldiers and promoting loyalty to the Communist Party and the revolution.

During World War II (1941–1945), February 23 gained deeper meaning as the Soviet Union fought for survival against Nazi Germany. It evolved from a day commemorating the Red Army's founding into one celebrating the courage, sacrifice, and heroism of all who defended the Soviet homeland.

After the war, the holiday was renamed "Soviet Army and Navy Day" in 1949, expanding its scope to include all military branches, and it became a major state holiday. Over time, it also became informally known as "Men's Day", since nearly every Soviet family had members who had served in the military. Women often gave small gifts or greetings to male relatives and colleagues, mirroring the way International Women's Day (March 8) honored women.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Russian Federation retained February 23 as a national observance. In 2002, it was officially renamed "Defender of the Fatherland Day" and designated as a public holiday.

The holiday's meaning broadened from honoring soldiers alone to celebrating all who serve or have served, including veterans, reservists, and those working in national defense. It also remains a day of appreciation for men in general, continuing the tradition of being informally called Men's Day.