Russia Public & National Holidays (2026)

Russia is the largest country in the world by land area, occupying over an eighth of the planet’s inhabited regions. The country spans across much of Northern Asia and Eastern Europe, sharing borders with Finland, Estonia, Norway, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and others.

Public holidays in Russia are a mix of both religious and national holidays observed across the country. The list below consists of all the official holidays recognized by the Government of Russia.

When are public holidays in Russia?

Which are the public holidays in Russia?

New Year’s Holidays
New Year’s Day is observed on the 1st of January in celebration of the start of a new year. However, in addition to New Year’s Day celebrations, January 1st to January 5th is also a public holiday referred to as New Year’s Holidays. During this period, most businesses and public offices are closed. If any of these dates fall on a weekend, the holiday will be extended until January 6th or even 8th.

Orthodox Christmas Day
In Russia, the Orthodox Church celebrates the birth of Jesus on January 7th according to the Julian calendar, which corresponds to December 25th of the Gregorian calendar.

Defender of the Fatherland Day
Defender of the Fatherland Day is observed on February 23rd in remembrance of the veterans and military forces. Initially, in the Soviet era, this day was known as the Day of the Soviet Army and Navy or the Red Army Day and was observed in honor of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, including those who had served in the past.

International Women’s Day (in lieu)
Women’s Day is an annual observation held on March 8th in celebration of the achievements of women. This holiday was first established in 1977 by the United Nations to recognize and honor women and their contributions to society.

Labor Day
Labor Day was initially observed in USSR as International Workers’ Solidarity Day before it was converted to Spring and Labour Day. It is celebrated on May 1st.

Victory Day
Victory Day, observed on May 9th, marks the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany during World War II. During this day, Russians pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty, survivors, and veterans.

Russia Day
Russia Day, also known as the National Day of the Russian Federation, is observed annually on June 12th. This day marks the 1991 declaration of Russian independence from the Soviet Union.

Day of Unity
Day of Unity or Unity Day is celebrated on November 4th to mark the end of foreign intervention in Russia. Celebrations on this day call for acceptance between the various religious and ethnic groups in the country.

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