The National Centre RUSSIA: from concept to implementation across the country
The story of the creation of the National Centre RUSSIA is a journey from a bold idea to a large-scale project that brings the whole country together. It all began in 2023 at the International RUSSIA EXPO at VDNH in Moscow, where a vital question was first asked: how can we showcase Russia in all its diversity so that each region and federal district can tell its unique story? Not just through dry facts, but through vivid imagery, traditions, and human stories.
The idea of establishing the National Centre RUSSIA was born at the International RUSSIA EXPO in 2023, where the main objective was to present the diversity of the country through its distinctive histories, traditions, and regional characteristics. During his visit to the RUSSIA EXPO, President of Russia Vladimir Putin made the decision to implement the project, and on July 1, 2024, a corresponding directive was issued by the Head of State. The creation of regional branches was also approved. By the end of the year, new branches are planned to open in the Primorye region, Sevastopol, Ryazan, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra and Krasnoyarsk; the first to launch will be the branch in Vladivostok.
Vladivostok
A significant part of the construction work has already been completed at the future site of the National Centre RUSSIA branch in Vladivostok. As previously stated by Governor of the Primorye region Oleg Kozhemyako, the spacious halls, with a total area of 4,000 square metres, will house unique expositions and become a new point of attraction for local residents and visitors alike.
"We will present what we are rightly proud of, what every resident of Primorye holds dear," emphasised the head of the region.
The Vladivostok branch is set to become a high-tech and interactive space. On the ground floor, visitors will be greeted by a hologram of Vladimir Arsenyev, who will speak about the exploration of the Russian Far East. The innovative "Feel Primorye Region" zone, featuring augmented reality, will allow guests to literally feel the sea breeze and the beauty of the local nature. The second floor will be dedicated to the region’s modern achievements — from industry to logistics — with interactive exhibits, including the opportunity to "manage" the region’s energy system.
Special attention will be given to local traditions. In an 80-square-metre Department Store, visitors will find traditional crafts, honey from Primorye, dietary supplements, and other renowned regional products. In the large aquarium, sturgeons — including the legendary fish that was the first inhabitant of the city’s oceanarium back in 1990 — will return to their permanent home.
The National Centre RUSSIA is a meeting place of past and future. The opening of the Vladivostok branch, scheduled for September 1, 2025, will mark an important step in creating a nationwide cultural space that preserves the unique legacy of every region.
The main goal of the hackathon is to involve young professionals in the development and creation of contemporary architectural solutions.
A couple from France raising many children were among the honoured guests of the II All-Russian Wedding Festival.
In 2025, the "My Profession is IT" competition became part of the range of projects of the presidential platform "Russia – Land of Opportunity."
