Victory Day in Belarus commemorates the end of World War II in Europe and honors the immense sacrifices made by Belarusians during the conflict. Known locally as the Great Patriotic War, it holds deep emotional and historical significance, over a quarter of the population perished during the Nazi occupation. Victory Day stands as a solemn yet proud celebration of courage, resilience and national unity.

When is Victory Day?

Victory Day in Belarus is celebrated on May 9 every year.

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

The History of Victory Day?

Victory Day is one of the most significant and emotional holidays in Belarus, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945 and the end of the Great Patriotic War, as World War II is known in the former Soviet Union. The day honors the extraordinary sacrifice, courage, and endurance of the Belarusian people, who suffered more than almost any other nation during the war.

When Nazi forces invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941, Belarus—then the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic (BSSR)—became one of the first targets. Within weeks, most of the country was occupied, and it endured some of the war's most brutal atrocities. Entire villages were burned, and countless civilians were executed. An estimated 2.2 to 2.5 million Belarusians, about one-quarter of the population, died during the conflict.

Despite this devastation, Belarus became a center of partisan resistance. Tens of thousands of Belarusian men and women joined underground movements that sabotaged enemy operations and aided the Soviet Army. Their courage helped weaken Nazi control and contributed to the eventual liberation of the country in July 1944 during Operation Bagration, one of the war's largest and most decisive offensives.

Following the end of World War II in Europe on May 9, 1945, the Soviet Union declared the day Victory Day, commemorating the triumph over fascism and honoring all who had fought and fallen. In Belarus, the day quickly became a symbol not only of victory but also of collective endurance and national rebirth.

After gaining independence in 1991, Belarus retained Victory Day as a national holiday, continuing many of the traditions established during Soviet times. The day is marked by military parades in Minsk, wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, veterans' gatherings, and fireworks displays.

Today, Victory Day remains a deeply personal and national occasion—a time for honoring veterans, remembering the fallen, and celebrating peace. It reminds Belarusians of their extraordinary resilience during one of the darkest chapters in human history and of their lasting commitment to preserving the memory of those who gave their lives for freedom.