Public Holidays in Russia (2025)

Privet! Kojo here. If you’re heading to Russia in 2025 — whether it’s to see Moscow’s grandeur or the charm of St. Petersburg — it’s important to understand the country’s public holidays. Some holidays mark historical milestones, others reflect Russia’s Orthodox Christian roots, and a few are remnants of the Soviet era. But all of them impact everything from traffic to shop hours — so planning ahead is key.

🇷🇺 Public Holidays in Russia (2025)

Holiday	Date (2025)	Day	What It’s About
New Year’s Day	January 1	Wednesday	Celebrates the start of the new year
New Year Holiday Week	January 2–6	Thursday–Monday	A continuation of the New Year celebration — most of Russia shuts down
Orthodox Christmas Day	January 7	Tuesday	Observed by the Russian Orthodox Church
Defender of the Fatherland Day	February 23	Sunday (observed Monday)	Honors military personnel — unofficially known as “Men’s Day”
International Women’s Day	March 8	Saturday (observed Monday)	One of Russia’s most beloved holidays — flowers, gifts, and respect for women
Spring and Labor Day	May 1	Thursday	Originally Soviet Labor Day — now a springtime holiday
Victory Day	May 9	Friday	Commemorates WWII victory over Nazi Germany — huge parades and pride
Russia Day	June 12	Thursday	Celebrates the declaration of Russia’s sovereignty in 1990
National Unity Day	November 4	Tuesday	Celebrates unity and the end of foreign occupation in 1612

🧠 Kojo’s Travel Tips for Russia’s Holidays

New Year Week (Jan 1–7) is a national shutdown — most businesses close, but Moscow lights up with ice parks and decorations.
Victory Day (May 9) features grand military parades — especially in Moscow. If you’re into history and patriotism, don’t miss it!
Russia Day and Unity Day are great chances to see patriotic displays, but less intense than Victory Day.
Public transport generally operates throughout the holidays, but roads can be blocked near major celebration zones.

🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are stores and restaurants open during holidays?
During New Year week and Orthodox Christmas, expect widespread closures — even in big cities. On other holidays, major stores and malls may remain open with shorter hours.

2. What’s the best holiday to visit for the experience?
Victory Day (May 9) is unforgettable — military parades, fireworks, and powerful history. It’s like the 4th of July meets a museum exhibit!

3. Are Orthodox holidays different from Western ones?
Yes. Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7, not December 25. Easter and other holidays also follow a different calendar.

Final Word from Kojo

Russia’s public holidays offer deep insight into its culture — a mix of Orthodox spirituality, Soviet legacy, and national pride. If you plan your visit with these dates in mind, you’ll avoid disruptions and gain an authentic glimpse into Russian life. From snow-covered Red Square to summer parades, there’s always something unforgettable happening.

— Kojo, from Explore With Kojo

April 23, 2025 Public Holidays by Country