What Do People Do?

Many people attend a local military parade and watch the fireworks at night on Victory Day. The parade is in the main city square, showcasing Russia's military forces. Most veterans wear their medals as they head to the parade or an event organized by a local veteran organization. One of the Victory day's tradition is to give flowers, usually red carnations, to veterans in the street and to lay wreaths at the war memorial sites. Neighborhood schools may host a program prepared by the students, featuring wartime songs and poetry.