1. September 1st — День знаний (Knowledge Day)

September 1st is not just the first day of school in Russia and Belarus — it is a national holiday called День знаний (Knowledge Day). Schools hold formal ceremonies, children wear their best clothes, and the atmosphere is festive. For first-graders, it is an especially emotional day — the beginning of their school life.

2. Белые бантики — the white bows tradition

On September 1st, girls traditionally wear large white bows (бантики) in their hair, often with braids (косички). The white bows are one of the most recognisable visual symbols of the day. Although modern families sometimes skip this tradition, it remains deeply associated with the first day of school in the collective memory.

3. Первый звонок — the bell ceremony

The First Bell (Первый звонок) is a formal ceremony that marks the start of the school year. The most iconic moment: a senior student (старшеклассник) lifts a first-grader (первоклассник) onto their shoulders, and the child rings a small bell (колокольчик). This bell symbolises the beginning of a new school year for everyone — and the beginning of school life for the youngest students.

4. Букет для учительницы — flowers for the teacher

On September 1st, children bring flowers for their teacher. This tradition is so widespread that the area outside schools is filled with children carrying bouquets in the morning. The flowers are a sign of respect and gratitude. Masha’s father gives her a bouquet specifically for the teacher — and her surprised reaction (“Is this for me?”) is a charming moment that every parent will recognise.