Turkmenistan Public Holidays

Turkmenistan Public Holidays

Searching for the national holidays in Turkmenistan? All public holidays in Turkmenistan are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Turkmenistan employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Turkmenistan and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.

National Public Holidays in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan, a country located in Central Asia, observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its cultural heritage, Islamic traditions, and historical events. These holidays celebrate national unity, religious values, and important milestones in the country’s history. Below is a list of the main public holidays in Turkmenistan, detailing their significance, celebrations, and which groups of people observe them.

New Year’s Day – January 1

Date: January 1
Observance: Nationwide

New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. In Turkmenistan, the holiday is widely celebrated with family gatherings, parties, and public events. Many citizens attend concerts and fireworks displays, particularly in the capital, Ashgabat. It is also a time for reflection on the past year and for people to set personal goals for the upcoming year.

Significance:
New Year’s Day represents a fresh start and is a celebration of new beginnings. It is also a time for people to express hope for prosperity and success in the year ahead.

Day Off:
New Year’s Day is a public holiday in Turkmenistan, and it provides a day off for all citizens across the country.

International Women’s Day – March 8

Date: March 8
Observance: Nationwide

International Women’s Day is celebrated in Turkmenistan to honor the achievements and contributions of women in society. The day is marked by various events, including speeches, rallies, and public celebrations. It is also a time to recognize the progress made in gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Significance:
International Women’s Day focuses on the advancement of women’s rights, the recognition of women’s contributions in various fields, and the ongoing work needed to achieve gender equality. It is a day of solidarity, highlighting women’s role in the development of Turkmen society.

Day Off:
International Women’s Day is a public holiday in Turkmenistan, and it provides a day off for all citizens, with a particular emphasis on honoring women.

Nowruz (Persian New Year) – March 21

Date: March 21
Observance: Nationwide

Nowruz is the Persian New Year and marks the arrival of spring. It is an ancient holiday celebrated in Turkmenistan with great enthusiasm. Nowruz is a time for people to gather with family, clean their homes, and partake in feasts, dances, and other cultural activities. It also marks the beginning of the agricultural season, and many people celebrate by planting trees and flowers.

Significance:
Nowruz symbolizes renewal, growth, and hope. The holiday is deeply rooted in Turkmenistan’s culture, reflecting ancient traditions and a celebration of nature’s rebirth with the arrival of spring.

Day Off:
Nowruz is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens to engage in cultural celebrations and family gatherings.

Turkmenistan Independence Day – October 27

Date: October 27
Observance: Nationwide

Independence Day is one of the most significant holidays in Turkmenistan, marking the country’s declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The day is celebrated with patriotic events, parades, and public ceremonies, with speeches by government officials and cultural performances. People across the country reflect on the journey of Turkmenistan toward sovereignty and celebrate its progress as an independent nation.

Significance:
Independence Day commemorates Turkmenistan’s liberation from Soviet rule and the establishment of its sovereignty. The holiday reflects the national pride and unity of the Turkmen people.

Day Off:
Independence Day is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens to take part in the national celebrations and events.

Independence Day of the Turkmen People – May 18

Date: May 18
Observance: Nationwide

The Independence Day of the Turkmen People honors the country’s first declaration of independence, which took place on May 18, 1991. It was a precursor to the country’s eventual full independence later that year. This day is marked by national ceremonies, public speeches, and cultural activities. It is a day to reflect on the history of Turkmenistan and the sacrifices made by the Turkmen people for their independence.

Significance:
The holiday highlights the Turkmen people’s struggle for sovereignty and serves as a reminder of their rich cultural heritage and national identity.

Day Off:
The Independence Day of the Turkmen People is a public holiday, providing a day off for all citizens of Turkmenistan.

Day of Neutrality – December 12

Date: December 12
Observance: Nationwide

The Day of Neutrality commemorates Turkmenistan’s declaration of permanent neutrality in 1995, which was recognized by the United Nations. The country’s neutral status has shaped its foreign policy and is a source of national pride. On this day, various ceremonies, speeches, and cultural events take place, particularly in the capital, Ashgabat. It is a celebration of the country’s commitment to peace and non-interference in the conflicts of other nations.

Significance:
The Day of Neutrality underscores Turkmenistan’s dedication to peace, neutrality, and a non-aligned foreign policy. It reflects the country’s desire to maintain friendly relations with all nations and contribute to global stability.

Day Off:
The Day of Neutrality is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens to participate in the national celebrations.

Constitution Day – May 18

Date: May 18
Observance: Nationwide

Constitution Day in Turkmenistan marks the day the country’s first Constitution was adopted in 1992. The Constitution laid the foundation for Turkmenistan’s legal and political system. This day is celebrated with ceremonies, speeches, and events focusing on the country’s legal system and the principles of democracy and governance.

Significance:
Constitution Day reflects the importance of the rule of law, democratic principles, and the protection of citizens’ rights. It is a reminder of the fundamental principles that guide the governance of the country.

Day Off:
Constitution Day is a public holiday in Turkmenistan, and it provides a day off for all citizens to celebrate and reflect on the importance of the Constitution.

Army Day – January 27

Date: January 27
Observance: Nationwide

Army Day in Turkmenistan honors the Turkmen Armed Forces and celebrates the role of the military in defending the country’s sovereignty and independence. The holiday is marked by military parades, demonstrations of military equipment, and speeches by government officials. It is a day to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of military personnel.

Significance:
Army Day emphasizes the importance of the military in maintaining national security and sovereignty. It is also a day to show gratitude to those who serve in the armed forces.

Day Off:
Army Day is a public holiday in Turkmenistan, and it provides a day off for military personnel and citizens to honor the armed forces.

Revival of the Turkmen Nation and the 10th Anniversary of the Election of the President – February 12

Date: February 12
Observance: Nationwide

This holiday commemorates the revitalization of Turkmenistan’s national identity and the 10th anniversary of the election of the country’s first president, Saparmurat Niyazov, in 1992. It is a day of national pride, with speeches, cultural performances, and reflection on the country’s achievements since independence.

Significance:
The holiday celebrates the efforts to restore and preserve Turkmen culture, traditions, and sovereignty. It also honors the leadership and vision that shaped the country’s political and social landscape.

Day Off:
The Revival of the Turkmen Nation Day is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens of Turkmenistan.

Table of Public Holidays in Turkmenistan

The following table summarizes the main public holidays in Turkmenistan, the number of days off, and the groups of people who benefit from these holidays:

Holiday	Date	Days Off	Groups Observed
New Year’s Day	January 1	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
International Women’s Day	March 8	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Nowruz (Persian New Year)	March 21	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Turkmenistan Independence Day	October 27	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Independence Day of the Turkmen People	May 18	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Christmas Day	December 25	1	Nationwide (Christian communities)
Boxing Day	December 26	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Day of Neutrality	December 12	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Constitution Day	May 18	1	Nationwide (All citizens)
Army Day	January 27	1	Nationwide (All citizens, military personnel)
Revival of the Turkmen Nation Day	February 12	1	Nationwide (All citizens)