Orthodox Easter Day
Millions of Orthodox Christians around the world often celebrate Easter Sunday at a different time to the date set by many western churches.
Russians have an extended New Year, starting in either the end of December or January 1. The number of days vary from year to year, depending on government announcements.
Is New Year Holiday Week a Public Holiday?
New Year Holiday Week is not a public holiday. Businesses have normal opening hours.
New Year fireworks in the center of Moscow.
©iStockphoto.com/Evgeny Dontsov
Changes in New Year Break
In October 2012, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev signed a decree that has added additional holidays to the Russian calendar.
Russians had a 10 day New Year break, starting December 30 that year and ending the day after the Russian Orthodox Christmas Day on January 8 the following year.
Other Holidays Affected
Additionally, in order to compensate for holidays that fall during the weekend of the New Year break, the decree extended the Spring and Labor Holiday by two days. The Spring and Labor Holidays start on May 1 and end on May 5.
Victory Day celebrations and holidays have also been extended by at least one additional day.
New Year Holiday Week Observances
New Year Holiday Week was only observed in the year 2013.
| Year | Weekday | Date | Name | Holiday Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Mon | Dec 30 | New Year Holiday Week | Observance |
We diligently research and continuously update our holiday dates and information. If you find a mistake, please let us know.
You Might Also Like
Ramadan starts
Ramadan is a period of prayer, reflection and fasting for many Muslims worldwide. It is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar.
Spring and Labor Day
For many Russians, Spring and Labor Day, which falls on May 1, is a family holiday and a time for relaxation.
Victory Day
One of the biggest Russian holidays, Victory Day, marks Germany’s surrender to the Soviet Union in 1945, ending one of the bloodiest wars in Russia’s history.
Share this page / Follow us on:
Visit us on: