Kazakhstan Public Holidays
Kazakhstan Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Kazakhstan? All public holidays in Kazakhstan are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Kazakhstan employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Kazakhstan and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Kazakhstan, a vast and diverse country in Central Asia, observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its rich history, cultural heritage, and religious traditions. These holidays provide insight into the country’s journey from ancient nomadic cultures to modern statehood, highlighting important historical events and religious practices. Public holidays in Kazakhstan include national holidays, religious holidays, and commemorative days, each offering unique opportunities for reflection, celebration, and community participation.
National Public Holidays
National public holidays in Kazakhstan celebrate the country’s history, independence, and achievements. These holidays are important markers of Kazakhstan’s national identity, unity, and progress, and they are widely observed across the country.
Independence Day (16th December)
According to getzipcodes.org, Independence Day is the most significant national holiday in Kazakhstan, celebrated annually on the 16th of December. It commemorates Kazakhstan’s declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, marking the beginning of the country’s journey as a sovereign state.
Celebrations:
- Official Ceremonies: The main Independence Day celebrations take place in the capital, Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan), where government officials, including the President, participate in flag-raising ceremonies and deliver speeches emphasizing the importance of independence and the country’s progress.
- Parades and Performances: Parades are organized in major cities, featuring military displays and cultural performances that showcase Kazakhstan’s ethnic diversity and traditions.
- Public Events: Across the country, people gather for concerts, traditional music, and dance performances. Public squares and parks become hubs of activity, with families and friends enjoying the festive atmosphere.
- Fireworks: In the evening, fireworks displays light up the skies in major cities, symbolizing national pride and unity.
Republic Day (25th October)
Republic Day, celebrated on the 25th of October, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty in 1990, a crucial step toward Kazakhstan’s eventual independence from the Soviet Union. This holiday was reinstated in 2022, reflecting Kazakhstan’s ongoing journey toward self-determination.
Key Events:
- Government Speeches: Political leaders deliver speeches on Republic Day, highlighting Kazakhstan’s journey toward statehood and the importance of sovereignty.
- Cultural Celebrations: Events showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and art exhibitions, are held in cities and towns across the country.
- Educational Programs: Schools and universities may organize lectures and discussions about the significance of Republic Day and Kazakhstan’s history.
Constitution Day (30th August)
Constitution Day, observed on the 30th of August, marks the adoption of Kazakhstan’s constitution in 1995. This holiday celebrates the establishment of the country’s legal framework and its commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
Traditions:
- Official Ceremonies: Government officials participate in ceremonies that emphasize the importance of the constitution in maintaining stability, democracy, and human rights in Kazakhstan.
- Public Celebrations: People gather for concerts, public events, and cultural performances that reflect national pride. These events often highlight the progress Kazakhstan has made since the adoption of its constitution.
- Legal Awareness Campaigns: Some organizations hold public discussions or seminars aimed at increasing awareness of citizens’ rights and responsibilities under the constitution.
Defender of the Fatherland Day (7th May)
Defender of the Fatherland Day, celebrated on the 7th of May, honors the men and women who serve in Kazakhstan’s armed forces. It is a day to recognize their contributions to the country’s security and independence.
Celebrations:
- Military Parades: In Astana and other major cities, military parades are held, showcasing the strength and discipline of Kazakhstan’s armed forces.
- Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: Wreaths are laid at war memorials and monuments dedicated to soldiers who have defended the country.
- Veterans’ Recognition: Veterans are often honored at public events, and their service is recognized through speeches and tributes.
Religious Public Holidays
Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, with Islam and Christianity being the most widely practiced religions. Religious holidays in Kazakhstan are observed with respect for the country’s diverse religious traditions, allowing people to celebrate their faiths freely.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, known as Oraza Ait in Kazakhstan, is one of the most important Islamic holidays. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The holiday is a time for celebration, gratitude, and giving to the less fortunate.
Traditions:
- Morning Prayers: Muslims in Kazakhstan gather at mosques for special Eid prayers, where they express gratitude for the strength to complete Ramadan and seek blessings for the coming year.
- Charitable Giving: Before the Eid prayers, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr (a form of charity) to help the poor and ensure that everyone can participate in the festivities.
- Feasting and Family Gatherings: Families come together to celebrate with festive meals, often including traditional dishes like baursak (fried dough) and pilaf. It is also a time to visit friends and neighbors, exchanging gifts and well-wishes.
- Acts of Charity: Many people take this opportunity to help those in need by donating food, money, or clothing.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, known as Kurban Ait in Kazakhstan, is another major Islamic holiday. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. The holiday is celebrated about 70 days after Eid al-Fitr.
Key Celebrations:
- Animal Sacrifice: One of the central traditions of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep or cow. The meat is then distributed among family, friends, and the poor, symbolizing charity and compassion.
- Prayers and Sermons: The day begins with prayers at mosques, followed by sermons that reflect on the themes of sacrifice, faith, and generosity.
- Family Feasts: After the sacrifice, families prepare large meals, sharing food with neighbors and those in need. It is a time of communal celebration and reflection on religious values.
Orthodox Christmas (7th January)
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on the 7th of January by Kazakhstan’s Russian Orthodox Christian community. The holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is marked by religious ceremonies and family gatherings.
Traditions:
- Church Services: Orthodox Christians attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve, followed by services on Christmas Day. Churches are beautifully decorated, and hymns are sung to celebrate the birth of Christ.
- Family Gatherings: Christmas is a time for families to come together and enjoy festive meals, often featuring traditional dishes like kutya (a sweet grain pudding) and pork roast.
- Gift Giving: Although less commercialized than in other parts of the world, Orthodox Christmas is a time for exchanging small gifts, especially for children.
Commemorative Days
In addition to national and religious holidays, Kazakhstan observes several commemorative days that honor its history, culture, and contributions to global peace and solidarity.
Victory Day (9th May)
Victory Day, celebrated on the 9th of May, marks the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II. This day honors the veterans and fallen soldiers who contributed to the defeat of fascism and is a major commemorative event in Kazakhstan.
Observances:
- Veterans’ Tributes: Kazakhstan pays tribute to its World War II veterans with public ceremonies and events. Veterans often wear their medals and participate in parades and gatherings.
- Military Parades: In cities like Almaty and Astana, military parades are held to honor the soldiers who fought in the war. These parades often include speeches from government officials and veterans.
- Wreath Laying: Wreaths are laid at war memorials and monuments across the country, including the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen in Almaty, which is dedicated to soldiers who died in the war.
Women’s Day (8th March)
International Women’s Day, observed on the 8th of March, is a public holiday in Kazakhstan that celebrates the achievements and contributions of women to society. The holiday is widely celebrated, and it is a time for honoring women in all areas of life.
Celebrations:
- Flowers and Gifts: It is customary for men to give flowers and gifts to the women in their lives—mothers, wives, daughters, and colleagues. Tulips and roses are particularly popular, and women are showered with well-wishes throughout the day.
- Public Events: Schools, government institutions, and cultural organizations often hold events that focus on the importance of gender equality and women’s rights. These events include speeches, exhibitions, and performances.
- Family Celebrations: Many families gather for meals or outings, using the day as an opportunity to show appreciation for the women in their families.
First President’s Day (1st December)
First President’s Day, celebrated on the 1st of December, honors Kazakhstan’s first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, who played a key role in shaping the country’s political and economic landscape after its independence from the Soviet Union.
Traditions:
- Tributes to Leadership: Government officials and citizens use this day to reflect on the achievements of the first president and his contributions to the stability and growth of Kazakhstan.
- Public Events: Cultural events, exhibitions, and lectures are held across the country to highlight the role of the first president in Kazakhstan’s development.
- Cultural Performances: Performances showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage are organized to celebrate national pride and unity.
