Artek celebrated 100th anniversary: grand festive concert was held at the National Centre RUSSIA
A festive concert marking the centenary of the Artek International Children's Centre was held at the National Centre RUSSIA. Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergei Kravtsov addressed the participants.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that this event marked the beginning of a large-scale marathon of festivities dedicated to Artek's 100th anniversary.
"Those of us born in the USSR naturally feel something special when we hear the word 'Artek.' We know that this international children's recreation centre sets the gold standard, both for Russians and the world at large. Over the past 100 years, more than 2 million children from 150 countries have experienced Artek for themselves and forever become part of its community. Here, they took part in educational programmes, improved their health, practised sports and engaged in creative activities — but most importantly, as our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin says, Artek teaches friendship," he emphasised.
Dmitry Chernyshenko added that the President had instructed the creation of an organising committee, which prepared an extensive programme of anniversary events, including a rocket launch, filming of documentary films, the release of commemorative medals and postage stamps, and much more. The highlight of the celebrations will be a final grand event to be held on June 16 at Artek itself.
The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to everyone contributing to the development of the educational and upbringing system. In honour of Artek’s centenary, a new badge of distinction — "Russia's Camp Counsellor" — has been established, and a competition of the same name will be launched shortly.
Dmitry Chernyshenko presented the first "Russia's Camp Counsellor" badge for significant contribution to the upbringing and education of the younger generation. The award was given to Rоza Yakovlevna Shatyro from the Republic of Tatarstan, who served as a camp counsellor at Artek in 1965–1966 and is recognised as an Honoured Educator of the Russian Federation.
In her acceptance speech, Roza Yakovlevna noted that during her time as a camp counsellor, she gave her heart to thousands of children.
"We are very fortunate people because we make friends and carry these friendships across the globe. Thanks to Artek, I have friends all over the world. I keep in touch with all of them — we exchange greetings on holidays," she added.
Minister of Education of the Russian Federation Sergei Kravtsov took to the stage together with Valentina Nikolayevna Cherkasova. As a child, she survived the Siege of Leningrad, and after the war, in 1949, she spent time at Artek. Together, they performed the song "The Artek Oath," written by Pionerskaya Pravda journalists Vladimir Boganov and Anatoly Anufriyev.
"Today, Artek is the finest international children's centre. The camp counsellors of Artek are the best counsellors in the world. Everyone who has once been to Artek becomes a role model for their peers. Just as it was 100 years ago, today children still dream of coming to the centre. We continue to support and develop Artek — its branches are operating in the Zaporozhye Region and in Sevastopol. The centre also trains school principals’ advisors on upbringing. And we will do everything we can to ensure that a piece of Artek lives in every pupil’s heart," Sergei Kravtsov said.
The anniversary concert welcomed guests from 89 regions of Russia, including ministers of education, heads of constituent entities of the Russian Federation, children recognised as Artek stars over the years, and veterans of the Artek International Children's Centre. In addition, foreign delegations from around 30 countries attended the event.
"Today, here in Moscow, people from all corners of Russia and the world have gathered — representatives of all regions, different ages and cultures. Artek has always been a symbol of childhood, dreams, and international cooperation. And today, it has once again proved its strength by bringing together those who believe in kindness, mutual understanding, and shared values. Schoolchildren and adults, youth leaders and guests — each has brought their own story, traditions, and energy, creating the unique atmosphere of Artek’s warmth," emphasised Konstantin Fedorenko, Director of the Artek International Children's Centre.
On June 16, 2025, the Artek International Children's Centre will mark its 100th anniversary. Previously, themed photo expositions were held in the State Duma and the Federation Council. A significant milestone was the issuance of a Presidential Decree by Vladimir Putin awarding the Artek team the Order of Honour.
Five films have been produced to mark the anniversary, including "100 Years of Happy Childhood," which premiered in January 2025. In cooperation with Samara University and the Foundation for Assistance to Innovations, a branded small spacecraft was launched into orbit, and on February 28, a carrier rocket featuring the Artek anniversary logo was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome. In late May, the 6th anniversary session began at the children’s centre and will continue until June 17–18.
On June 5, a press screening of the adventure film "Artek. Across the Centuries," filmed on the grounds of the Artek International Children's Centre, will take place. On June 9, an exposition titled "Artek at Full 100!" will open in GUM (Moscow), featuring unique archival materials. Visitors will also enjoy an interactive programme from the youth leaders. On June 12, the International Children's Festival "Let There Always Be Sunshine" will begin.
Event photobank
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