World Bard Song Day, also known as World Author Song Day, is celebrated every December 22, primarily in Russia and other former Soviet countries. The day honors the bardic tradition, which originated from Celtic cultures and was adapted in the Soviet Union during the 1960s to refer to singer-songwriters who performed outside the Soviet establishment. Initially, bard songs were composed in the 1950s, focusing on themes of friendship and courage, often sung around campfires. Over time, the genre expanded to include political songs that critiqued the regime, with some bards facing persecution for their work. The day was established around 2000 by singer-songwriter Konstantin Shlyamov, and it coincides with the winter solstice, providing an opportunity for gatherings to sing and celebrate bards. A notable tradition includes singing Bulat Okudzhava’s song “Molitva” (“Prayer”) at 4 p.m. Moscow time.