Day of Belarusian Literature

Traditionally, since 1994, on the first Sunday of September, all of Belarus celebrates the Day of Belarusian Literature. This national holiday was established by the president of the country in order to emphasize the inextricable connection of the unity of the Belarusian printed word with the history and culture of the Belarusian people, as well as to demonstrate the importance of printing national literature and the education of the country as a whole. Thus, the state recognizes the enormous role that literature plays in the spiritual and moral education of its citizens and encourages them to in-depth study of journalism and book publishing. This holiday unites everyone who values ​​their native language and culture and protects the country’s national heritage. It is interesting that magnificent festive events alternately take place in various cities of Belarus, which are historical centers of culture, science and literature. Polotsk, as the most ancient city of Belarus and the birthplace of the pioneering printer Francis Skaryna, became the first city to take on the role of the “capital” of festive events for the Day of Writing. Each subsequent city tries to give the holiday a local flavor and chooses its own thematic focus. A variety of events are celebrated on this day: the opening of monuments, parks, and museums. The entire city becomes a huge festive arena with key thematic venues, where everyone can get acquainted with the latest books, meet with domestic and foreign writers, visit exhibitions and fairs, listen to performances by songwriters, creative groups, and watch knightly tournaments. Also, according to annual tradition, on this day the winners of the competition for the best works of the year are awarded. Not only the Union of Belarusian Writers, but also senior officials of the Republic of Belarus, heads of ministries, representatives of embassies, and foreign delegations take an active part in the festive events. Thus, ordinary citizens and senior people of the state pay tribute not only to their native language, but also to the entire culture of the Republic of Belarus.