October 30: A Day of Celebrations, Remembrance, and Some Very Interesting Birthdays!
Well, isn’t October 30 a mixed bag of holidays—like a surprise box of chocolates, only with a few existential crises thrown in for good measure! If you ever thought life was all sunshine and rainbows, this day would kindly beg to differ. Let’s dissect this fantastic 24-hour rollercoaster!
Holidays in Russia
Foundation Day of the Navy
Ahoy there, me hearties! October 30 is the day when Russian surface sailors rock their naval gear and reminisce about Peter I’s smart decision back in 1696 to decree "Sea Vessels to Be." It’s like an ancient version of ordering pizza—"We’re getting ships, and I want them now!" But unlike ordering pizza, this decree ended up creating an entire Navy with nuclear submarines and missile cruisers. Talk about an upgrade from the ol’ rowboat!
And let’s be honest, how else can you turn a navy into an impressive collection of warships unless you know a thing or two about building it? They’ve gone from paper boats in a kiddie pool to some of the most formidable watercraft on the planet. Now that’s what I call a “sea change!”
Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repression
Now, shifting gears—because why not?—we come to a more somber occasion: the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repression. Established in 1991, this memorial day remembers the innocent lives lost to Soviet repression. For anyone who thinks history is just something that happened, take note: it echoes loudly, often coming back to haunt us at family gatherings.
And let’s be real; if you’re from a creative background in Russia, this day will make you want to write poetry and drink vodka—lots of it. It’s a day of quiet reflection, perhaps with a hint of rebellion in the air.
Other Celebrations
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Coach’s Day: Here’s the day every couch potato can finally give a nod to their coach while vacuuming the crumbs from last night’s binge-watch session!
- Mechanical Engineer Day: Recommended gifts include wrenches and maybe a nice cup of “Stop complaining and just fix it!” tea.
World Holidays and Other Celebrations
Let’s throw an international layer onto this festive cake!
World Life Day
First up, we have World Life Day, celebrated since 2008. Established to remind us that life is priceless—unless you’re Alex from accounting, then it’s likely negotiable. Today, donor campaigns sweep through with events dedicated to human rights, health lectures, and, of course, free medical consultations. Because who doesn’t want a check-up while parading around for a good cause? Sign me up!
Other Global Shenanigans
- Brown Eyes Day: All the blue-eyed folks can step aside; today’s for the earthy hued crew!
- World Radio Drama Day: An excuse to sit back and enjoy some perfectly scripted chaos!
- Sugar Addiction Awareness Day: A gentle reminder that yes, you can devour that chocolate cake and still feel guilty about it!
Church Holidays Galore!
Now let’s dip our toes into the spiritual side. It’s the Commemoration of All Orthodox Christians Who Were Killed Innocently. Look, it’s a long title for a day dedicated to those who suffered for their beliefs. A day filled with solemnity, prayers, and maybe a good sermon about being thankful for… well, not being in a Soviet camp.
Day of the Icon of the Mother of God “Deliverer”
And if that wasn’t enough ecclesiastical zeal for the day, it also commemorates the “Deliverer” icon—because saving your skin is always a good idea, right? You can thank the family of Emperor Alexander III for being in the right place at the right time. Train wrecks have never been that charming until now!
Signs and Superstitions
If you’re superstitious, October 30 has got your back!
- If the wheel you remove from your cart doesn’t creak, get ready for good harvests.
- Changing clothes multiple times? Great way to confuse evil spirits, or it just might get you a call from your mum wondering whether you’ve lost the plot!
- And if the stars are few, expect worse weather; so, you might want to cancel that picnic!
Who’s Celebrating a Birthday Today?
When it comes to birthdays, October 30 has some heavyweights!
Nadezhda Mandelstam (1899-1980)
This writer was more than just a partner to poet Osip Mandelstam; she memorized his works and documented some serious Soviet terror. Basically, she was a wonder woman—minus the cape, and maybe a little more intellectual bite.
Diego Maradona (1960-2020)
The man, the legend, the walking highlight reel of football! Who can forget the “Goal of the Century”? And just like that, Diego scored his way into our hearts… and our Spotify playlists!
Now, if I could get paid for every time I try to score a goal in my living room, I’d be a millionaire!
So there you have it: October 30—a day that brings joy, remembrance, and a hearty dose of deep thinking! Just don’t forget to grab a slice of cake (preferably sugar-free)! Cheers!
On October 30, Russian surface sailors proudly commemorate their professional holiday, Foundation Day of the Navy, a significant date in naval history. Around the globe, Life Day is observed, and Orthodox Christians take the time to remember those innocently imprisoned for their faith. Lenta.ru provides a detailed overview of the various holidays celebrated on this date, along with an homage to notable individuals who were born on October 30.
Holidays in Russia
Foundation Day of the Navy
Photo: Belkin Alexey / Globallookpress.com
This day holds historical significance, as on October 30, 1696, Tsar Peter I motivated the Boyar Duma to pass the groundbreaking Decree titled “Sea Vessels to Be.” This pivotal legislation is commonly recognized as the inception of the Russian Navy. Today, the Russian Navy boasts a formidable force, equipped with an impressive array of warships including state-of-the-art missile cruisers, advanced nuclear submarines, anti-submarine combat vessels, versatile landing crafts, and cutting-edge naval aircraft.
Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repression
On this date in 1974, courageous prisoners from the Mordovian and Perm camps bravely commenced a hunger strike, protesting the rampant political repression that gripped the Soviet Union. This act of defiance led to the establishment of a memorial day in 1991, a tribute to the countless innocent victims who suffered in the camps. The height of political repressions occurred between 1937-1938, a dark period during which official records indicate that over one and a half million individuals were arrested on dubious political grounds.
What other holidays are celebrated in Russia on October 30
- Coach’s Day;
- Mechanical Engineer Day.
Holidays around the world on October 30
World Life Day
In 2008, the humanitarian organization Friends of Life based in Côte d’Ivoire initiated the celebration of World Life Day to emphasize the fundamental truth that life is the most valuable asset that needs protection. This year, various donor campaigns and human rights events are taking place globally, aimed at raising awareness and encouraging participation in life-affirming initiatives. Schools are hosting lectures focused on mental health along with the prevention and treatment of numerous health issues. Additionally, some clinics are providing free medical consultations to honor this significant day. At 13:00 GMT (16:00 Moscow time), the Global Moment of Joy in Honor of Life is set to take place worldwide, promoting unity and celebration of life.
What other holidays are celebrated around the world on October 30?
- Brown Eyes Day;
- World Radio Drama Day;
- Sugar Addiction Awareness Day.
What church holiday is today?
Commemoration of all Orthodox Christians who were killed innocently by atheists or who were innocently imprisoned
A notable and solemn observance occurs today, dedicated to the memory of Orthodox Christians who suffered unjustly at the hands of oppressors. Established in 2021, this commemorative date harmonizes with the Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Political Repression. Across Russia, memorial services are being conducted to honor the clergy and righteous Christians who endured suffering within the confines of Soviet camps. In reverence of this day, many believers partake in a defining fast.
Day of the Icon of the Mother of God “Deliverer”
This holiday celebrates the revered miraculous icon known as the “Deliverer,” which became associated with the royal family after their survival from a tragic train accident near Borki station on the Kursk-Kharkov-Azov road. Notably, just weeks before the accident, Emperor Alexander III and his family visited New Athos monastery, where the icon was housed, leading many to believe that the miraculous icon was present during their time of danger.
What other church holidays are celebrated on October 30
- Memorial Day of Anthony Leokhnovsky, Abbot of Novgorod;
- Memorial Day of Hieromartyr Alexander (Schukin), Archbishop of Semipalatinsk;
- Memorial Day of the Prophet Hosea;
- Memorial Day of the Venerable Martyr Andrew of Crete.
Signs for October 30
Traditionally known as the Day of Hosea the Wheeler, this date signifies a shift in rural practices, where carts are thoroughly prepared for the winter ahead by removing wheels from their axles. This practice has spawned the saying: “In the prophet Hosea, wheel and axle are forgiven.”
- If the wheel does not creak upon removal, it heralds a promising harvest for the following year.
- Additionally, it is considered auspicious to change clothes multiple times on this day as a way to confuse malevolent spirits, with the old garments needing to be washed.
- The visibility of fewer stars in the night sky often signifies deteriorating weather conditions ahead.
Who was born on October 30
Nadezhda Mandelstam (1899-1980)
Nadezhda Mandelstam, a significant Russian writer and memoirist, dedicated her life to preserving the literary legacy of her husband, the esteemed poet Osip Mandelstam. In the shadow of her husband’s death, she undertook the incredible feat of memorizing his entire body of work, ensuring it survived the oppressive scrutiny of the Soviet regime. Her memoirs are now considered indispensable for understanding both Osip Mandelstam’s poetry and the broader socio-political landscape of the Stalinist era.
Diego Maradona (1960-2020)
Photo: imago sportfotodienst / Globallookpress.com
The legendary Argentine footballer, Diego Maradona, recognized as one of the greatest midfielders and strikers in the history of the sport, was celebrated not only for his exceptional skill but also for his vibrant personality. Named World Champion and honored as the Best Footballer of the 20th Century by FIFA, Maradona is perhaps most famously remembered for scoring the unforgettable “Goal of the Century” against England in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, a moment forever etched in football history.
