Holidays and events

The Airborne Troops Day is traditionally marked in Russia on August 2. On that day in 1930, a team of 12 paratroopers were for the first time parachuted during military exercises near the city of Voronezh in southern Russia. Now, the strength of Russia’s airborne troops stands at about 45,000 men.

This Day is a professional holiday for those serving in the Airborne Forces. It is not an official holiday, but is widely celebrated, especially in city parks.

Paratroopers wearing their uniform vest and blue berets walk around the city, congratulate each other and drink together, in memory of their service. Symbols of the Airborne Troops can be seen on this day on flags, banners and cars, and even in parks.