On 27 June, the Youth Day was celebrated across Russia under the unifying theme of “Dream. Pride. Unity.” To mark the occasion, a large-scale flash mob entitled “Light of the IFY” took place in Russian regions and abroad, in support of the International Festival of Youth 2026. The event served as the culmination of the Youth Day celebrations and drew thousands of participants.

The primary venues for the action were Smolensk, Russia’s Youth Capital; Yelets, designated the City of Youth; and Ekaterinburg, which will host the International Festival of Youth this September. In the evening, young people illuminated their mobile phone lanterns to recreate the festival’s official symbol—a lighthouse that beckons emerging leaders from across the globe.

“The lighthouse is directly linked to our festival’s motto. It represents a guiding light steering each participant towards their dreams, while reminding us that Russia is a space for open dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to justice. We invite young people from around the world to become full partners in this conversation,” said Dmitry Ivanov, Director General of the World Youth Festival Directorate.

The initiative drew participation from activists, partners, and alumni of the World Youth Festival Directorate across 13 countries: Abkhazia, Argentina, Venezuela, Egypt, India, Morocco, Peru, the United States, Thailand, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Chile, and Sweden.

“In a world where platforms for genuine dialogue are scarce, Russia is creating a space for young people from every corner of the globe to connect. It is truly remarkable! This festival, like a beacon, attracts talented young leaders from diverse nations to forge something genuinely global and meaningful for all of humanity,” commented Mehdi Yous, a participant from Morocco.

Young people from foreign countries lit up central thoroughfares and the lighthouse sites in their home nations, affirming that the festival’s guiding symbol is already drawing like-minded individuals together worldwide.

“A lighthouse is a symbol of light. And the International Festival of Youth in Ekaterinburg is likewise a beacon of knowledge and opportunity. Activists and experts from around the world will assemble to jointly tackle global challenges. We are grateful to Russia for creating this space, where youth, energy, and ideas from different countries converge to find shared solutions,” said Anastasia Prikhodko, an activist from Sweden.

The International Festival of Youth is scheduled to take place from September 11 to 17 in Ekaterinburg, bringing together 10,000 young leaders from 190 countries. Held under the motto “Follow Your Dream,” it aims to foster open international dialogue, facilitate the search for like-minded partners, and offer young leaders from abroad a deeper understanding of true Russia, including youth support initiatives implemented under the auspices of President Vladimir Putin’s policy decisions.

“I am very much looking forward to the International Festival of Youth. The festival platform is always a place for lively communication, meaningful encounters, and the chance to launch new projects and bring ideas to life. For me, this event is like a lighthouse—it helps me navigate and find my direction. It also gives us hope that everything will be fine,” said Noah Schenk, an activist from the United States.

On the Youth Day, the official name of the regional mascot for the IFY-2026—a young sable—was announced in Ekaterinburg. The name was selected by residents of the Sverdlovsk Region through an open public vote. The winning choice was Uralik. The other finalists included Ekatik, Demid, Snezhok (Snowball), and Malakhitik (Little Malachite).

The mascot was first unveiled on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in June 2026. Its design draws inspiration from the white sable featured on the Sverdlovsk Region’s coat of arms, and embodies energy, openness, curiosity, and a drive for development. Uralik the Sable is set to become one of the festival’s central symbols, appearing at the opening and closing ceremonies, greeting guests at main venues, and helping to create a festive atmosphere throughout the event.

Overview:

The World Youth Festival took place in Sirius on March 1-7, 2024, according to the Decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the development of international youth cooperation. The WYF-2024 brought together 20,000 young leaders from 190 countries.

In line with the Russian President’s instructions to preserve and further develop the legacy of the World Youth Festival, festival events are now held annually across the Russian Federation. In 2025, the World Youth Festival Assembly was held in Nizhny Novgorod, bringing together 2,000 young people from 120 countries. In 2026, the International Festival of Youth will welcome 10,000 participants. The next World Youth Festival for 20,000 participants will take place in 2030.

The World Youth Festival Directorate continues its work to strengthen international youth cooperation and develop a global community of young people committed to shaping a better future.