2 May 2026
by OVD-Info
Source: OVD-Info
Hello!
The May bank holidays [May Day – 1st May and Victory Day – 9th May. Trans] is a time of long-awaited country visits and kebab-eating. But in modern Russia, even innocent picnicking can bring unexpected legal complications or the attention of the authorities.
At OVD-Info, we believe knowledge protects. To avoid unpleasantness on your days of rest, we have made a special list of top tips. We have covered the main risks of kebab-eating – from fire safety rules to the nuances of ‘war censorship’ and made a practical checklist so you can enjoy the holidays peacefully.
Even if you don’t plan on spending the holidays out in nature, please send this list to friends and relatives. Knowing your rights and the fundamental rules of safety is the best way to protect yourself from unpleasant surprises.
Choose a suitable place
A suitable place is not just about pleasant scenery and convenience – it is also safe. There are strict legal requirements about where you can light a fire.
You must not cook kebabs:
On balconies, loggias or roofs;
In forests, squares and parks not located in areas with special equipment – search for signs saying ‘Picnic areas’;
In children’s play areas and in the courtyards on blocks of flats;
On country homes within five metres of any buildings.
❗Caution: If the wind speed is more than 10 metres a second, it is illegal to light a fire even in designated areas. Violating fire safety laws in forests carries a fine of a minimum of 15,000 roubles under the Code of Administrative Offences.
Avoid sacred locations
Cooking or drinking near memorials, especially eternally-lit flames to Great Patriotic War soldiers, might be seen as displaying support for Nazism under Article 354 of the Criminal Code.
Instances of this happening have become much more common in recent years and it carries a very harsh punishment – ranging up to 5 years’ imprisonment in a penal colony. Avoid memorials and military cemeteries.
Observe public order
It is easy to relax on holiday, but you still need to keep in mind the rules of conduct in public places.
Petty hooliganism (according to Article 20.1 of the Code of Administrative Offences) is defined as uncensored verbal abuse, harassment and damaging property.
Under Article 20.20 of the Code of Administrative Offences, drinking spirits (or beer) in parts, squares or on the streets is illegal. Fines can also be issued for violating others’ dignity owing to drunkenness.
Remember political and musical inoffensiveness
Given the current ‘war censorship’, innocent things like conversations with friends and playing music can give rise to criminal prosecutions.
We encourage you to refrain from discussing politics, the war, political repression or the recent internet restrictions, with people you don’t know. In the current political climate, revealing your views about the President or the war to your fellow picnic-goers can have unpredictable outcomes: not just verbal or even physical alternations, but even with you being reported to the authorities. You may be charged with administrative or even legal offences for ‘discrediting the Russian Army’ under Article 20.3.3 of the Code of Administrative Offences, ‘war fakes’ under Article 207.3 of the Criminal Code, or other articles of the law relating to expressing ‘anti-war’ views.
Choose your music carefully
If you are spending the holidays in a public place where strangers may be listening to you, please be careful what music you listen to. Playing music or listening to it in a public pace might be seen as ‘propagating’ its message. Propagating certain tracks can lead to prosecution, for example tracks featuring on the Ministry of Justice’s list of ‘extremist materials’ can be punished with a fine or arrest lasting 15 days under Article 20.29 of the Code of Administrative Offences. Anti-war songs, tracks referencing Ukraine or songs written by opposition groups may cause the authorities to take notice.
Remember the basic rules of environmental friendliness
Fly-tipping and littering carries a fine of 3000 roubles under Article 8.2 of the Criminal Code;
Always be sure to completely put out a fire of coals before leaving;
We are in the insect season. Use repellents, check yourselves for insets every 2 hours and keep pets safe.
Always remember:
If you are approached by police during your picnic:
Be calm and politely ask them to identify themselves. Ask them why the issue is. Write down details of the encounter – preferably in a laptop.
Do not sign charge sheets you do not agree with without also noting your reasons for being opposed to it.
Contact us if you believe your rights are being violated. If you need help or if you need to consult with a lawyer:
📞 8-800-707-05-28
📩 in**@*****fo.org
🤖 https://t.me/OvdInfoBot
We hope you won’t need these instructions, but forewarned is forearmed. Save this email and share it amongst friends.
Take care of yourself and enjoy your time off!
In solidarity,
The OVD-Info Team
Translated by Oscar Seecharan
