HOLIDAYS IN RUSSIA

Journey through the holidays in Russia, where joy, tradition, and community intertwine to create memorable and culturally significant moments throughout the year. Russia celebrates various holidays, including national, regional, and professional ones. In this article, we listed the types of official holidays available as well as regional holidays. This will enable you to make your plan for when to visit Russia for a holiday.

Holidays In Russia

In Russia, there are numerous holidays, including national, regional, and professional holidays. Some holidays are observed as public holidays, while others are not. Russians typically have around two weeks off per year for public holidays, although sometimes a public holiday may require working on a weekend day to compensate for the time off.

Official State Public Holidays

#1. New – January 1st

The New Year is a widely celebrated holiday in Russia. Since 2005, Orthodox Christmas has been combined with the New Year holidays, and Russians often celebrate it again on January 14th.

#2. Orthodox Christmas – January 7th

Orthodox Christmas has been a non-working public holiday in Russia since 1991. It is celebrated by the Orthodox Christian community.

#3. Defender of the Fatherland Day – February 23rd

This holiday was originally established to honor men who fought in wars and defended the country. Nowadays, it is a holiday for all men, regardless of their age and occupation.

#4. International Women’s Day – March 8th

International Women’s Day is a holiday that celebrates women’s solidarity and emancipation. It is a day to honor women and show appreciation for their contributions.

#5. Spring and Labor Day – May 1st

Also known as the “First of May,” this holiday was widely celebrated in the Soviet Union. It is an opportunity for people to take a short vacation and get away from the city or town.

#6. Victory Day – May 9th

Victory Day commemorates the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II. It is a significant holiday in Russia, marked by parades, fireworks, and ceremonies.

#7. Russia Day – June 12th

Russia Day is a relatively young holiday, officially celebrated in 1992. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of Russia, which marked the country’s independence from the Soviet Union.

#8. Unity Day – November 4th

Unity Day was first celebrated in 2005. It commemorates the historical event known as the “Day of National Unity” and promotes unity among the diverse ethnic and religious groups in Russia.

Regional Holidays

#1. City Day

Celebrated in various cities throughout Russia, City Day is a holiday dedicated to a specific city or town. It is usually associated with parades, concerts, fireworks, and various cultural events.

#2. Republic Day

Celebrated in the republics of Russia, Republic Day commemorates the establishment of the republic and highlights its cultural heritage and achievements.

#3. Day of the Republic of Tatarstan

Celebrated in the Republic of Tatarstan, this holiday marks the establishment of Tatarstan as a sovereign republic within the Russian Federation.

#4. Siberian Taiga Day

Celebrated in the Siberian region, this holiday focuses on raising awareness about the importance of preserving the unique taiga ecosystem and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Professional Holidays

#1. Teacher’s Day

Celebrated on the first Sunday of October, Teacher’s Day honors educators and their contributions to society. It is a day to express gratitude and appreciation to teachers for their hard work.

#2. Medical Worker’s Day

Celebrated on the third Sunday of June, Medical Worker’s Day recognises the dedication and achievements of healthcare professionals in Russia.

#3. Engineer’s Day

Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of November, Engineer’s Day honours engineers and their contributions to technological advancements and infrastructure development.

#4. Journalist’s Day

Celebrated on June 6th, Journalist’s Day recognises the important role of journalists in providing information, news, and analysis to the public.

Religious Holidays

#1. Easter

Easter is celebrated by the Orthodox Christian community in Russia. The date varies each year based on the Julian calendar and is usually accompanied by religious services, feasts, and the exchange of Easter greetings.

#2. Ascension Day

Celebrated 40 days after Easter, Ascension Day marks the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It is an important religious holiday for Orthodox Christians.

#3. Pentecost

Celebrated 50 days after Easter, Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. It is observed with religious services and traditions.

Places To Visit During Holidays In Russia

When choosing places to visit during holidays in Russia, several options cater to different interests and preferences. These popular destinations include:

#1. Moscow

The capital city of Russia offers a mix of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and modern attractions. Visit iconic sites like Red Square, the Kremlin, and St. Basil’s Cathedral. Explore world-class museums, enjoy the bustling nightlife, and indulge in Russian cuisine.

#2. St. Petersburg

Known as the cultural capital of Russia, St. Petersburg is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. Take a boat tour along the canals, attend a ballet performance, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history.

#3. Golden Ring

The Golden Ring is a collection of historic cities northeast of Moscow, known for their well-preserved medieval architecture and charming atmosphere. Explore cities like Suzdal, Vladimir, and Sergiev Posad, and admire their ancient cathedrals, monasteries, and kremlins.

#4. Lake Baikal

Located in Siberia, Lake Baikal is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world. It offers breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife. Enjoy hiking, camping, and boat trips, or experience the Trans-Siberian Railway journey that passes near the lake.

#5. Kazan

The capital of Tatarstan, Kazan is a vibrant city known for its mix of Russian and Tatar cultures. Visit the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, explore the colorful streets of the Tatar Quarter, and try traditional Tatar cuisine.

#6. Sochi

Situated on the Black Sea coast, Sochi is a popular resort city known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and the Caucasus Mountains. Enjoy water sports, visit the Olympic Park from the 2014 Winter Olympics, and explore the nearby natural wonders, such as the Sochi National Park.

#7. Kamchatka Peninsula

For adventure seekers, the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Russian Far East offers stunning landscapes, volcanoes, hot springs, and wildlife. Experience hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in this remote and pristine region.

#8. Karelia

Located in the northwest of Russia, Karelia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and waterfalls. Explore the picturesque Kizhi Island with its wooden architecture, visit the Kivach Nature Reserve, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.

#9. Veliky Novgorod

This historic city is located between Moscow and St. Petersburg and is known for its rich history and architectural heritage. Visit the Novgorod Kremlin, explore the ancient churches, and take a boat trip on the Volkhov River.

#10. Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM)

If you’re interested in train travel, consider taking a journey on the BAM railway. This scenic route crosses Siberia, offering stunning views of forests, mountains, and remote villages.

Various Ways To Spend Holidays In Russia

#1. Traveling within Russia

Russia is a vast country with diverse landscapes and cultural attractions. Many Russians choose to explore different regions of their own country during holidays. Popular destinations include Moscow, St. Petersburg, the Golden Ring cities, Crimea, and Sochi.

#2. International Travel

Russians also enjoy traveling abroad for holidays. Popular international destinations for Russian tourists include Turkey, Thailand, the Maldives, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and European countries like Italy, France, and Spain.

#3. Celebrating National Holidays

Russians celebrate several national holidays, such as New Year’s Day (January 1st), Victory Day (May 9th), and Russia Day (June 12th). These holidays often involve family gatherings, festive meals, fireworks, and cultural events.

#4. Spending Time with Family

Holidays in Russia are often seen as an opportunity to spend quality time with family and loved ones. Many Russians use holidays as a chance to gather together, exchange gifts, and enjoy special meals.

#5. Visiting Dachas

Dachas are country cottages that many Russians own outside of cities. During holidays, families often retreat to their dachas to relax, enjoy nature, and engage in activities like gardening, barbecuing, and outdoor games.

#6. Attending Cultural Events

Holidays in Russia are often marked by various cultural events, such as concerts, theater performances, exhibitions, and festivals. Cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg offer a wide range of cultural activities during holidays.

#7. Visiting Historical Sites

Russia is known for its rich history and architectural wonders. During holidays, you can visit historical sites like the Red Square and the Kremlin in Moscow, the Hermitage Museum, and the Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg, or explore the ancient cities of the Golden Ring like Suzdal or Vladimir.

#8. Enjoying Winter Activities

Russia experiences long winters, and holidays provide an opportunity to engage in winter activities. You can go ice skating in outdoor rinks, try cross-country skiing or snowboarding, or even take a trip to ski resorts like Rosa Khutor in Sochi or Sheregesh in Siberia.

#9. Attending Festivals and Events

Russia hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. During holidays, you can participate in events like the Moscow International Film Festival, the White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg, the Maslenitsa (Pancake Week) celebrations, or the International Fireworks Festival in Moscow.

#10.Relaxing in Banya

Banya, the traditional Russian sauna, is a popular way to relax and rejuvenate. During holidays, you can visit a banya and enjoy steam sessions, birch branch massages, and traditional Russian bathing rituals.

Benefits Of Holidays in Russia For Both Locals And Tourists

#1. Time for Relaxation

Holidays provide an opportunity for people to take a break from their regular routines, relax, and rejuvenate. It allows individuals to spend quality time with family and friends, engage in leisure activities, and recharge their energy.

#2. Cultural and Historical Exploration

Russia has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and holidays provide an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s landmarks, museums, and historical sites. Whether it’s visiting the iconic Red Square in Moscow, exploring the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, or discovering the ancient cities of the Golden Ring, holidays allow for a deeper understanding and appreciation of Russian culture and history.

#3. Festivals and Celebrations

Russia is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Attending these festivals provides a chance to immerse oneself in the local traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. Festivals like Maslenitsa, Victory Day, and White Nights Festival offer unique cultural experiences that showcase the diversity and vibrancy of Russian culture.

#4. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Russia is home to stunning natural landscapes, including Lake Baikal, the Altai Mountains, and the Kamchatka Peninsula. Holidays provide an opportunity to explore these natural wonders, engage in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting, and appreciate the country’s diverse ecosystems.

#5. Opportunity to Experience Russian Hospitality

Russians are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Holidays in Russia allow visitors to interact with locals, experience their traditions and customs firsthand, and create lasting memories and connections.

#6. Access to Global Talent

For businesses and employers, holidays in Russia can be an opportunity to tap into the country’s talent pool. Russia is one of the top 10 countries with the largest populations in the world, offering a diverse range of skilled professionals. Hiring remote talent from Russia can provide access to global expertise and contribute to the growth and success of businesses.

#7. Opportunity for Travel

Holidays provide an excellent opportunity to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of Russia. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, there are countless destinations to discover, including historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural landmarks.

#8. Health Benefits

Taking a holiday and getting away from the daily routine can have positive effects on mental and physical health. It allows individuals to relax, reduce stress levels, and rejuvenate, leading to improved overall well-being.

#9. Culinary Delights

Russian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and holidays offer the perfect chance to indulge in traditional dishes. From hearty soups like borscht and solyanka to savory dumplings like pelmeni and vareniki, exploring Russian cuisine is a delightful experience during holidays.

#10. Shopping and Souvenirs

Holidays provide an opportunity to explore local markets, boutiques, and souvenir shops. From traditional crafts and artwork to unique Russian souvenirs, there are plenty of options to find special mementos and gifts to take back home.

What Is Russia’s Main Holiday?

Russia’s main holiday is often considered to be New Year’s Day. Celebrated on January 1st, it is a festive occasion marked by fireworks, gift-giving, and gatherings. Russians also celebrate New Year’s Day on January 14th, which corresponds to the Julian Calendar used in Russia before 1918. Another significant holiday is Victory Day on May 9th, which commemorates the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. It is observed with military parades and ceremonies. International Women’s Day on March 8th is widely celebrated, honoring women with flowers and gifts.

Is Sunday A Working Day In Russia?

Yes, Sunday is generally considered a non-working day in Russia. The common working week in Russia begins on Monday and ends on Friday, with Sunday being a day off for most people. However, it’s important to note that some businesses, such as shops, eateries, and essential services, may operate on Sunday. Additionally, there may be exceptions or variations in specific industries or regions.

What Holiday Is On May 5 In Russia?

May 5th in Russia is not widely recognized as a major national holiday. There is no specific holiday for May 5th in Russia. However, Russia has a rich calendar of holidays throughout the year, including significant celebrations such as New Year’s Day, Victory Day, International Women’s Day, and Russia Day. These holidays hold cultural, historical, and social importance in Russia. While May 5th may not be a widely celebrated holiday in the country, it’s always advisable to check for any local or regional observances that may occur on that day.

Is Saturday A Holiday In Russia?

Yes, Saturday is generally considered a working day in Russia. The common working week in Russia typically runs from Monday to Friday, with Saturday being a regular working day for most people. However, it’s important to note that there may be exceptions or variations in specific industries or regions, and some businesses may have different working schedules.

Where Do Russians Go On Holiday?

Russians have a variety of holiday destinations, both within Russia and abroad. Popular international destinations for Russians include Turkey, Thailand, the Maldives, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the Seychelles. Within Russia, popular holiday destinations include Crimea and Sochi. It’s important to note that individual preferences may vary, and the availability and popularity of destinations can be influenced by various factors.

Conclusion

During holidays in Russia, some cities offer a mix of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy boat tours, ballet performances, and traditional Russian cuisine. These holidays allow individuals to recharge, enjoy local traditions, and engage in leisure activities. Russia’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists. Additionally, holidays provide an opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and enjoy traditional Russian cuisine.