Defender of the Fatherland Day 2026

On February 23, 2026 Russia celebrates Defender of the Fatherland Day. That is observed in Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Ukraine and several other former republics of the Soviet Union. In Kazakhstan Defender of the Fatherland Day is celebrated on the 7th of May. Since 2002 Defender of the Fatherland Day is day off holiday.

It commemorates the birth of the Red Army, who is actually the defender of the Russian fatherland. The Red Army was founded in January 25, 1918 and since 1919 this event is celebrated in Russia. Defender of the Fatherland Day was formerly known as Red Army Day or Soviet Army and Navy Day.

More dates:

• Defender of the Fatherland Day on Feb 23, 2027 in Russia
• Defender of the Fatherland Day on Feb 23, 2028
• Defender of the Fatherland Day on Feb 23, 2029