In the USSR, 23 February was celebrated as the Day of the Soviet Red Army and Navy, but after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the day was renamed. Today, this patriotic holiday is dedicated primarily to servicemen and employees of law enforcement agencies, but children usually congratulate their fathers, regardless of whether they were in the army or not, giving them touching cards.

23 February is an official holiday with of patriotic concerts at each city. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed.