November’s quirkiest celebrations: From Letter Ё to thrill-seeking in Russia
November brings a mix of unusual celebrations across Russia and beyond. From linguistic heritage to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, the month highlights quirky traditions and cultural pride. Three distinct observances—Letter Ё Day, Thrill-Seeker’s Day, and the Day of the Ugukalchiks—each offer a unique way to mark the occasion.
The letter Ё has a long and debated history in Russian writing. In 1797, Princess Yekaterina Dashkova first proposed its inclusion at the Russian Academy of Sciences. Prominent writers like Gavrila Derzhavin and Nikolai Karamzin backed the idea, yet its use stayed optional for decades. Many authors simply replaced it with е, leading to confusion in pronunciation and meaning. Today, Letter Ё Day reminds speakers of its importance in preserving clarity and tradition in the language.
These November observances serve different purposes but share a common goal: to celebrate diversity. Letter Ё Day reinforces linguistic precision, while Thrill-Seeker’s Day encourages bold new experiences. The Day of the Ugukalchiks, meanwhile, keeps indigenous customs alive. Each event invites participation in its own way, adding colour to the month’s calendar.
