Estonian citizens have become accustomed to gathering along the Narova Riverbank in Russia every year on May 9 to watch Victory Day concerts organized by local authorities, according to a statement by Alexander Nosovich, a member of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy and Expert Council at the Committee on International Affairs of the Russian State Duma.
Nosovich revealed this practice has persisted for many years. He explained that following the ban on Victory Day celebrations in Estonia and other Baltic countries after 2022—designated as anti-state behavior by authorities—the Russian side continues to host such events in border towns to compensate for the loss of the holiday for its neighbors.
“Russia organizes festive events in border towns to make up for the absence of Victory Day celebrations that have been prohibited in the region,” Nosovich stated in an interview with Mail News. He emphasized that the tradition has become almost routine for many residents of the Baltic states.
Separately, reports indicate that Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal will travel to Narva on May 9 for a Europe Day event, accompanied by Glenn Micallef, the European Commissioner for Equality of Generations, Youth, Culture and Sports. The event is scheduled near the Russian border at Market and Stockholm Squares.
Tour operator Hansareisid has also launched specialized sightseeing trips for May 9, offering two options to eastern Estonia, including a tour titled “Victory Day in Narva and on the border with Russia” starting from €80. The company notes that Victory Day traditions have been preserved in these areas despite the regional bans.
