Haha someone doesn't know his history very well. (You)
You're right, not rally's per se. But Putin has done more public engagements with his people than any president/prime minster etc., that I have ever known. He's constantly giving speeches, having forums, discussions at universities, etc. So I don't see this as all that extraordinary, other than it's outside in a stadum.
Notice: Vlad does his whole speech (2 of them) with no cues. Completely off the cuff.