Mongolia Public Holidays
Mongolia Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Mongolia? All public holidays in Mongolia are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Mongolia employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Mongolia and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Description
New Year’s Day in Mongolia is celebrated on January 1st, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is one of the major public holidays and is widely observed by people across the country. On this day, Mongolians celebrate with various activities such as family gatherings, festive meals, and public events. Many people use this holiday to reflect on the past year and set goals for the new year.
In cities like Ulaanbaatar, public spaces are adorned with decorations, and special events such as concerts and fireworks displays take place. The holiday offers Mongolians a chance to relax, enjoy time with loved ones, and participate in celebrations that bring together both the younger and older generations.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) (Variable Date, February or March)
Description
Tsagaan Sar, also known as the Lunar New Year, is one of the most significant holidays in Mongolia, celebrating the arrival of the new lunar year according to the traditional Mongolian calendar. Tsagaan Sar is a time to honor family, friends, and ancestors, and it is marked by religious observances, feasts, and community gatherings.
The holiday lasts for several days, during which Mongolians visit family members, exchange well wishes, and share traditional foods such as buuz (steamed dumplings) and other Mongolian dishes. On the first day, people perform a ceremonial greeting known as the “Zolgoh,” where younger people offer respect to elders by bowing and wishing them happiness and good health.
Duration
Tsagaan Sar is typically a three-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the duration of the celebrations.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the holiday period, though essential services remain operational.
International Women’s Day (March 8)
Description
International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8th, is an important holiday in Mongolia to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day is marked by events that promote gender equality, celebrate women’s contributions to society, and raise awareness about issues that women face.
In Mongolia, the day is celebrated with a variety of activities, including public speeches, educational events, and social gatherings. The government organizes events to celebrate women’s progress, and many workplaces honor female employees with flowers, gifts, or special recognition.
Duration
International Women’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is a global holiday honoring workers and their contributions to society. In Mongolia, the day is observed to recognize the role of workers in building and maintaining the country’s economy. Labour Day is marked by parades, speeches, and public events organized by labor unions, political groups, and other organizations.
In Ulaanbaatar and other cities, there are often marches and rallies where workers show solidarity for better working conditions, fair wages, and social justice. The holiday is both a celebration and a call to action for better treatment of workers in various sectors.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia, particularly workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Naadam Festival (July 11-13)
Description
Naadam is Mongolia’s biggest and most important traditional festival, celebrated annually from July 11th to 13th. It commemorates the historic victory of the Mongol Empire and celebrates the core values of the nation: strength, resilience, and unity. The festival is known for its three major events: wrestling, horse racing, and archery, which are deeply embedded in Mongolian culture and tradition.
During Naadam, people from all regions of Mongolia travel to participate in festivities. The holiday is filled with parades, traditional music, dances, and exhibitions of Mongolian arts and crafts. The Naadam Festival is both a celebration of Mongolia’s history and an opportunity for people to connect with their cultural heritage. The festival also features performances, food stalls, and other social events.
Duration
Naadam Festival lasts for three days, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the duration of the celebration.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the festival period, though essential services remain operational.
National Independence Day (November 26)
Description
National Independence Day in Mongolia, celebrated on November 26th, marks the country’s declaration of independence from Qing Dynasty China in 1911. This day is an important national holiday that reflects on Mongolia’s sovereignty and the sacrifices made to preserve its independence.
The day is observed with national celebrations, including flag-raising ceremonies, military parades, and cultural performances. People reflect on the history of Mongolia’s struggle for independence, its path to democracy, and the resilience of its people. Various events are held in Ulaanbaatar, and citizens across the country participate in the commemoration of the nation’s independence.
Duration
National Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Constitution Day (November 26)
Description
Constitution Day is celebrated on November 26th, marking the adoption of Mongolia’s first democratic constitution in 1992. This day honors the country’s transition to democracy and the establishment of a legal framework that guarantees citizens’ rights and freedoms.
Constitution Day is marked by public ceremonies, educational events, and discussions about the country’s progress since adopting the constitution. Government officials often give speeches highlighting the importance of the constitution in shaping modern Mongolia and ensuring justice and equality for all citizens.
Duration
Constitution Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mongolia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is recognized by Christian communities in Mongolia. While Mongolia is predominantly Buddhist, there is a growing number of Christians, especially in urban areas. Christmas is celebrated with church services, prayers, family gatherings, and festive meals.
In Ulaanbaatar, the capital, there are often public Christmas events, such as concerts, decorations, and church services. The holiday provides a moment for the Christian community to reflect on their faith and come together to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians, though some non-Christians also observe the holiday.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Mongolia
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) | Variable (February/March) | 3 days | General Public |
| International Women’s Day | March 8 | 1 day | General Public |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Naadam Festival | July 11-13 | 3 days | General Public |
| National Independence Day | November 26 | 1 day | General Public |
| Constitution Day | November 26 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
