New East Digital Archive

Sofas, fridges, and other surprises we saw at Belarus’s Independence Day parade

5 July 2017

Those lucky enough to attend the Independence Day celebrations in Minsk on Monday were treated to a very special parade, featuring military tanks, soldiers, flags, and some other more unusual items. Tractor ballet, anyone?

After the traditional military and sports parade, things started to get a little confusing when out came a vibrant array of floats celebrating the best of Belarusian business and produce. Sofas, sausages, washing machines, bread and bathtubs: this Independence Day parade had it all. This was topped only by the tractor ballet — a phenomenon that seems to be taking hold in Belarus.

Catch more surprising moments from the parade here.