A Russian may not see it as a holiday, but September 1st is certainly a special date. On this День Знаний (Day of Knowledge, since 1984), knowledge is honored and celebrated—but of course, knowledge is not gained easily. So, September 1st is also the day when Russian children return to school (or go for the first time). Accompanied by festivities, but once the первый звонок (first bell) rings, freedom and vacation are truly over.