Day of the Defenders of Ukraine

Day of the Defenders of Ukraine is a state holiday in Ukraine, observed annually on October 1st. It honors all those who defend the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and freedom of Ukraine.

History of Day of the Defenders of Ukraine

The holiday was originally established in 2014, with its first celebration in 2015, to replace the Soviet-era Defender of the Fatherland Day and to honor those fighting for Ukraine.

For many years it was celebrated on October 14th, which has historical significance: it coincides with the Intercession of the Theotokos (a religious feast), the Day of Ukrainian Cossacks, and the founding date of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army.

In 2023, the date was officially changed to October 1st by law. The change aligned with reforms in the Ukrainian church calendar and other adjustments in national holiday observances.

The name was also updated to explicitly include both “defenders and defendresses” to recognize the role of women alongside men in Ukraine’s defense.

Why is Day of the Defenders of Ukraine important?

This holiday is deeply meaningful for Ukrainians. It’s not only a formal recognition of military service, but a tribute to courage, sacrifice, solidarity, and resilience in the face of external aggression. It reminds people that peace, sovereignty, and freedom have real cost, borne by individuals and families across the country.

It also helps unify people: across regions, genders, and generations. By explicitly including both defenders and defendresses, the holiday reflects modern Ukraine’s values of equality and inclusive national identity. It connects with historical traditions while addressing current realities—ongoing conflicts, the importance of recognizing everyone who contributes to defense.

Some things that many people find meaningful:

• remembering and honoring soldiers and volunteers who defend Ukraine
• appreciating the role of women in defense, not just men
• connecting with historical traditions like the Cossacks and UPA
• feeling a shared national identity and sense of unity
• recognizing the personal sacrifices families and communities make

How to Celebrate Day of the Defenders of Ukraine

People observe this day in various ways—through public ceremonies, military parades, memorial services, concerts, and cultural events dedicated to Ukrainian heritage. Flags are displayed, speeches are made, and tributes are paid to the fallen and to those still serving.

In everyday life, individuals might visit memorials, write messages of gratitude, support veterans’ families, or simply take a moment to reflect on what freedom and service mean. Schools and communities often organize educational programs about historical defenders and modern ones.

Here are simple ideas:

• lay flowers or light a candle at a memorial
• send a message of thanks to someone who served
• participate in local events or ceremonies
• learn or share stories of specific defenders
• wear national symbols or the defender’s ribbon to show solidarity

Day of the Defenders of Ukraine Dates Table

Alex’s Take on Day of the Defenders of Ukraine

Well friends, here it’s very clear—I 100% support the struggle of Ukrainians for freedom and self-determination. More than that, the war in Ukraine has become one of the key challenges for the world order and for global democracy itself. That’s why I believe this is not just some local holiday, but a holiday for the entire free and democratic world. Don’t think that sounds too grand. We have to defend our values—otherwise, someone else’s values will be forced on us. I really fear the world could slide into some kind of dystopia where dictatorial countries like Russia or China call the shots.

Today, you can find Ukrainians all over the world. Support those near you—with words, with deeds. They will appreciate it. And I truly hope that next year, when I come back to update this article, I’ll be able to write something more positive.

Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!