Russia marks Airborne Forces Day on August 2, tracing the occasion to the first Soviet parachute drop in 1930, while the Edinburgh Festival Fringe opens in Scotland and Orthodox Christians observe the feast of the Prophet Elijah.
Russian Airborne Forces Day
The holiday originates from August 2, 1930, when a combat group of soldiers parachuted for the first time in Soviet history during exercises held by the Moscow Military District. The first Soviet airborne units were formed the following year and incorporated into the Soviet Air Forces in 1932.
The day was observed informally from the 1990s before a presidential decree formally placed it on the calendar in 2006. Traditional observances include bathing in fountains, gatherings in parks, car rallies, religious processions, concerts, and the laying of flowers at soldiers’ graves.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe opens in the first days of August and runs for nearly a month. The festival dates to 1947, when Scotland organised a large arts event intended to bring European peoples together after the Second World War. When several groups were denied places in the official programme, an alternative event known as the Fringe was born on the margins of the main festival.
Over time the Fringe grew more popular than the official event. Its central aim is to give anyone who wishes a chance to perform, and during the festival opera singers, comedians, musicians, and other artists from many countries take to the streets. Both professionals and amateurs may take part.
Elijah’s Day
Orthodox Christians observe August 2 as the feast of the Prophet Elijah, regarded as one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament. Tradition holds that because of his steadfast faith he was taken into heaven alive in a chariot of fire, and scripture identifies him as the forerunner of the Second Coming of Christ.
Folk belief connected to the day holds that anyone caught in rain on Elijah’s feast will enjoy good health for the coming year.
Notable birthdays
American actor Sam Worthington, known for his roles in Avatar, Clash of the Titans, and Terminator Salvation, turns 50. Russian mixed martial artist Alexander Emelianenko, a multiple champion in combat sambo and younger brother of Fedor Emelianenko, turns 45.
