Every year, the last spring weekend is a notable time for the capital of Ukraine as Kyiv celebrates its “birthday.” This year, Kyiv Day falls on May 25.

Kyiv Day: Historical Context

According to the “Tale of Bygone Years,” Kyiv was founded by the Polyan princes Kyi, Shchek, Khoriv, and their sister Lybid. Although the exact date of the city's founding is unknown, archaeological evidence suggests that Kyiv was established around the 6th century AD. It began as a small settlement on the hill now known as Old Kyiv Hill.

Thus, our proud city of Kyiv has been around for over 15 centuries, officially celebrating 1542 years. Interestingly, Kyiv has not always been the capital of Ukraine; its capital status has shifted to Kharkiv, Lviv, Stanislav, and Ternopil at various times.

The first Kyiv Day celebration took place in May 1982, marking the 1500th anniversary of the city. However, historians assert that this date is approximate, and Kyiv's age is several centuries greater. It is believed that this grand celebration in 1982 was an attempt by the Soviet regime to divert attention from the 50th anniversary of the Holodomor.

Prior to the full-scale invasion by Russia in 2022, no Kyiv Day celebration occurred without the annual charity run “Run Under the Chestnuts,” traditional international cycling competitions, kite festivals, and other large-scale events. Even in these challenging times, thematic events will still take place in the capital, albeit on a smaller scale for the safety of citizens.

Symbols of Kyiv Day

• The Coat of Arms of Kyiv. The official coat of arms was approved in 1995, with the first mentions dating back to around 500 AD. It depicts Archangel Michael.
• The Blue-and-Yellow Flag. This represents freedom and independence and is a significant symbol of Kyiv Day.
• The Anthem of Kyiv. A song written in 1962 became the unofficial anthem until it gained official status in 2014.
• Chestnuts. There is perhaps no other symbol of the city as recognizable as the blooming chestnut alleys.
• The Golden Gates. This historical arch is one of the most recognizable architectural monuments of Kyiv.

What to Expect for the Celebrations in 2025

Last May, a series of cultural events took place to celebrate Kyiv Day, featuring performances by the band KOLABA and other artists, as well as film screenings. This year's celebrations in 2025 are expected to be equally exciting, including large concerts and the traditional charity run “Under the Chestnuts.”

Interesting Facts about Kyiv

• Kyiv is considered one of the oldest cities in Europe, founded in 482 AD.
• The city is rich in internationally significant historical monuments, some of which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• The “Motherland” monument is the tallest in the capital.
• The Kyiv Metro is one of the oldest in Europe, with “Arsenalna” being the deepest station.
• The Grunewald Oak is regarded as the oldest oak in Kyiv.
• Volodymyrska Street is the oldest street in the capital, while Khreshchatyk is the widest.