KUBINKA, RUSSIA May 9, 2026 – Russia wrapped up its nationwide Victory Day commemorations on Saturday with a breathtaking fireworks display over the Main Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces in Kubinka, near Moscow.
Vivid bursts of red, pink, green, white, and gold fireworks lit up the night sky, exploding dramatically above the cathedral’s golden domes in a 25-second spectacle captured from aerial angles. Beams of light pierced the smoke-filled sky as large crowds gathered below, turning the modern military memorial into a glowing centerpiece for the traditional evening salute.
The official Russian government account @Russia posted the footage on X, writing: “By tradition, the great holiday marking the triumph of good over evil – #VictoryDay – ends with salutes across the cities of our vast Fatherland. A dazzling finale: fireworks over the domes of the Main Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces in Kubinka! #Victory81”
Victory Day on May 9 marks the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War (World War II). It remains one of Russia’s most significant national holidays, honoring the millions of Soviet lives lost and celebrating the defeat of fascism.
The Main Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces, consecrated in 2020 for the 75th anniversary of Victory Day, is one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches and features extensive mosaics and relics dedicated to WWII heroism.
While this year’s main military parade on Moscow’s Red Square was scaled back — with no ground-based heavy military equipment displayed due to security concerns — fireworks and local celebrations continued across the country as per longstanding tradition.
Similar salutes illuminated skies in cities nationwide, underscoring themes of national unity and remembrance.
About The Author
