Builder's Day (14/08)

On the second Sunday of August, Russia and some countries of the post-Soviet space celebrate Builder's Day.

For the first time, this professional holiday of workers in the construction industries was celebrated in the USSR on August 12, 1956. And it was established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR « On the establishment of the annual holiday "Builder’s Day"» (on the second Sunday of August) dated September 6, 1955.

The laconic nature of the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR is proof that Builder's Day did not appear by chance, and that its appearance was implied and prepared. Here's how newspapers commented on it:

« A new manifestation of the party and government’s concern for builders is the Resolution of the CPSU Central Committee and the Council of Ministers of the USSR « adopted on August 23, 1955 On measures for further industrialization, improving quality and reducing construction costs». This resolution analyzes with fullness and clarity the state of construction and determines further ways for the widespread industrialization of the construction industry» («Building Newspaper», September 7, 1955).

Construction craft and the art of architecture have always been valued in Rus' and other countries. After all, the development of any locality depends on the construction of residential, public and cultural buildings and structures. Without mass construction, it is impossible to imagine any developed state. Therefore, the emergence of cities and villages, schools and kindergartens, theaters and museums, industrial and transport infrastructure facilities owes many generations of workers in the construction industry.

It is curious that many traditions laid down at the dawn of the celebration of Builder’s Day have survived to this day: awards for the holiday, ceremonial meetings with the participation of representatives of government agencies, and the opening of new facilities... But specialized exhibitions dedicated to this professional holiday, —, unfortunately, are rare.

But the tradition of celebrating Builder's Day widely is still being revived. Traditionally, new facilities are commissioned for this day: schools, hospitals, bridges, residential buildings. On this day, various ceremonial meetings of builders, congratulatory concerts for workers in this industry are held, with the presentation of state awards to the best of them and honoring veteran builders.

On the second Sunday of August, builders from Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Ukraine celebrate their professional holiday.



Postcard «Builder's Day»

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