A Day For Russian Men

23rd of February is the "Defender of Fatherland" day, which is an unofficial holiday for all Russian men (in Russia).

In Russia, all men must serve in the military, (it's compulsory). They are therefore part of the "National Defending Force" - present or future soldiers.

The day is only officially a holiday in Russia (formerly all U.S.S.R.), but it may still be of importance to Russian people in the now "FSU" countries, particularly if they are ethnic Russian. It is common for women to give small gifts to men they know, not just partners or family, but can also be the men at their place of work, or university.

As a point of "conversation", you can ask your Russian girlfriend about 23 February - "The Defender Day", and how/if she celebrated it - she will be impressed with your knowledge of the Russian calendar and such a historical date.