For the majority of the western world, March 8th might not mean very much… But half-way around the world, millions of people consider it a big day. Vosmoe Marta, or International Women’s Day, is one of the main national holidays in Russia and most Eurasian countries.
The Vosmoe Marta holiday is a blend of Mother’s Day and St. Valentine’s Day, except all girls and women are the center of attention on this holiday. The International Women’s Day started as a political message of women’s rights and equality back in the early 1900's. The meaning of this holiday has changed since, and it now stands for recognizing the important role of women in our lives. You can read more about the history of the holiday and watch a video on how people celebrate it in Russia on the International Women’s Day website.
Vosmoe Marta is the holiday that represents spring, appreciation and love for all women, and the whole essence of life. All men are expected to give flowers, chocolate, and presents, however big or small, to their loved ones - wives, girlfriends, daughters, mothers, sisters, teachers, the list goes on… This is the day when all girls feel extremely special.
It is important to note that this day has nothing to do with the feminist movement, at least in its modern interpretation. On the contrary, the ladies enjoy their feminine role and expect to be cared for by the men they love. It’s definitely our day to get spoiled. :)
If you also come from the country that celebrates the International Women’s Day, please post a comment below and let us know what other nations celebrate this wonderful holiday. And if you have a female friend from the part of the world where March 8th is not just another ordinary day, don’t forget to say today: S Vosmym Marta!
Olga, in Armenia, after it gained its independence from the Soviet Union, the government decided to switch Women's Day from March 8 to April 7, which is a religious holiday in honor of St. Mary.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately for them, women demanded their DAY back and won the battle. From that day, Armenians unofficially celebrate Women's Month, that starts on March 8 and ends on April 7:)The bottom line - don't mess up with women:)
It's awesome that women (and men :)) in Armenia get to celebrate March 8th all month long! Maybe we ladies can do even better than that - how about March 8th EVERY DAY?!? :)
DeleteSo, did you introduce your non-Russian husband to this Holiday? Did you receive any flowers from him today?
ReplyDeleteIt is exactly the purpose of this post to introduce all the people who are clueless about the meaning of this important holiday to the International Women's Day :) It's sort of a cross-cultural orientation for men :) Read and learn!
ReplyDeleteMarch 8th is a big Day in Georgia as well. I remember at school or at University all boys would bring lots of flowers on this day and gave it to every girl. It always was such a beautiful day. It's sad that here in US it's not a big deal, but yesterday I say some men with flowers walking in the streets of DC:)
ReplyDeleteAnna - Happy Int'l Women's Day to you! In Georgia, do you get a day-off on March 8th as well?
DeleteIt's exactly the same when I was living in Russia - even when we were at school, the boys would give all the girls flowers or small gifts on March 8th. And I would always get presents from my Dad :)
I love this holiday!