Ukraine Public Holidays

Ukraine Public Holidays

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

Holidays in Ukraine

National Public Holidays in Ukraine

Ukraine celebrates a variety of public holidays that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, historical milestones, and religious traditions. Many of these holidays are associated with important events in the nation’s history, while others are dedicated to honoring figures, religious observances, and national pride. Below is a list and description of the key public holidays in Ukraine, along with their significance and the groups that observe them.

New Year’s Day – January 1

Date: January 1
Observance: Nationwide

New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the year according to the Gregorian calendar. In Ukraine, this holiday is widely celebrated with festive events, fireworks, and gatherings. People across the country celebrate by spending time with family, attending parties, and enjoying traditional food and drinks. It is a time of renewal and optimism as people look forward to the new year.

Significance:
New Year’s Day represents a fresh start and is an occasion to reflect on the year that has passed. It is a holiday enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Day Off:
New Year’s Day is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens of Ukraine.

Orthodox Christmas Day – January 7

Date: January 7
Observance: Nationwide (Primarily Orthodox Christians)

Orthodox Christmas Day is celebrated by the majority of Christians in Ukraine, particularly those who follow the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is a religious holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. The day is observed with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. People also exchange gifts and celebrate the occasion with traditional Ukrainian foods such as borscht, dumplings, and pastries.

Significance:
Orthodox Christmas Day is an important religious holiday that emphasizes the birth of Christ and the spiritual significance of his arrival in the world. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate their faith.

Day Off:
Orthodox Christmas Day is a public holiday in Ukraine, and it is primarily observed by Orthodox Christian citizens. It provides a day off for those who follow the Eastern Orthodox Church.

International Women’s Day – March 8

Date: March 8
Observance: Nationwide

International Women’s Day is a public holiday in Ukraine that celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in society. The holiday is marked by rallies, cultural events, and discussions about gender equality, women’s rights, and empowerment. While it has its origins in the socialist movement, International Women’s Day is now widely recognized as a celebration of women’s contributions to every aspect of life.

Significance:
International Women’s Day is a day to honor women and highlight the progress made toward gender equality. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to improve the status of women worldwide.

Day Off:
International Women’s Day is a public holiday in Ukraine, providing a day off for all citizens, with many people participating in events that celebrate women’s contributions.

Easter Sunday – Varies (Christian Holiday)

Date: Varies annually (First Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox)
Observance: Nationwide (Primarily Christians)

Easter Sunday is the most important religious holiday for Christians, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. In Ukraine, Easter Sunday is celebrated with church services, festive meals, and the blessing of Easter baskets containing traditional foods such as eggs, ham, bread, and cakes. Many Ukrainians participate in religious processions and attend liturgical services throughout the Easter season.

Significance:
Easter represents the victory of life over death and is a central theme in Christian theology. It is a time for renewal, hope, and joy as Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

Day Off:
Easter Sunday is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for Christians across Ukraine to observe religious services and celebrate the occasion.

Labour Day – May 1

Date: May 1
Observance: Nationwide

Labour Day is a public holiday in Ukraine that honors the working population. Originally tied to the socialist movement, the day has evolved into a celebration of workers’ rights, labor unions, and the contributions of workers to the country’s economy. In Ukraine, Labour Day is marked by parades, speeches, and various community events.

Significance:
Labour Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of workers and to advocate for better working conditions, fair wages, and social justice. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity among workers.

Day Off:
Labour Day is a public holiday in Ukraine, providing a day off for workers across the country.

Victory Day – May 9

Date: May 9
Observance: Nationwide

Victory Day commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. It is one of the most important holidays in Ukraine, as it honors the memory of those who fought and died in the war. The day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and wreath-laying events at war memorials. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on remembering all those who suffered during the war, including Ukrainian soldiers and civilians.

Significance:
Victory Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made during World War II and to honor the resilience of the people who fought for peace and freedom. It is a day of remembrance for all who contributed to the war effort.

Day Off:
Victory Day is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens of Ukraine to participate in commemorations and events.

Constitution Day – June 28

Date: June 28
Observance: Nationwide

Constitution Day in Ukraine celebrates the adoption of the country’s constitution on June 28, 1996, following independence from the Soviet Union. The day is marked by official ceremonies, speeches from government leaders, and public events that celebrate the principles of democracy and the rule of law. It is an occasion to reflect on the progress Ukraine has made as an independent and democratic nation.

Significance:
Constitution Day is a reminder of Ukraine’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It celebrates the fundamental legal document that shapes the country’s political and social system.

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

Independence Day – August 24

Date: August 24
Observance: Nationwide

Independence Day is one of the most important holidays in Ukraine, celebrating the declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991. The day is marked by patriotic celebrations, including parades, concerts, fireworks, and various cultural activities. Independence Day is an occasion to reflect on the achievements of Ukraine as a sovereign nation and to celebrate the country’s national identity and unity.

Significance:
Independence Day commemorates the moment Ukraine declared its independence and became a free and sovereign state. It is a day to honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence and to celebrate the country’s progress since 1991.

Day Off:
Independence Day is a public holiday in Ukraine, providing a day off for all citizens to participate in celebrations and reflect on the country’s history.

Defenders of Ukraine Day – October 14

Date: October 14
Observance: Nationwide

Defenders of Ukraine Day is a relatively new holiday established to honor the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the veterans who have defended the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The holiday is marked by ceremonies, parades, and commemorations of military personnel and their families. It is a day to recognize the sacrifices made by soldiers in defense of Ukraine, especially during ongoing conflicts in the east of the country.

Significance:
Defenders of Ukraine Day is an important occasion to recognize the bravery and sacrifices of Ukrainian soldiers who have fought to protect the nation. It is also a reminder of the importance of national security and defense.

Day Off:
Defenders of Ukraine Day is a public holiday, and it provides a day off for all citizens, with particular recognition for military personnel and their families.

Christmas Day – December 25

Date: December 25
Observance: Nationwide (Primarily Christians)

Christmas Day is celebrated by Christians in Ukraine to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, Ukrainians observe Christmas on January 7 according to the Eastern Orthodox Church calendar. However, December 25 was officially recognized as a public holiday in 2017. The day is celebrated with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals, including the traditional twelve-dish Christmas Eve supper.

Significance:
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the central event of Christian faith. It is a day of joy, peace, and reflection for Christians around the world, and it is increasingly observed as a public holiday in Ukraine.

Day Off:
Christmas Day is a public holiday in Ukraine, and it provides a day off for all citizens, particularly those of the Christian faith.

Table of Public Holidays in Ukraine

Below is a table summarizing the key public holidays in Ukraine, 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)
Orthodox Christmas Day January 7 1 Nationwide (Orthodox Christians)
International Women’s Day March 8 1 Nationwide (All citizens)
Easter Sunday Varies annually 1 Nationwide (Christians)
Labour Day May 1 1 Nationwide (All workers)
Victory Day May 9 1 Nationwide (All citizens)
Constitution Day June 28 1 Nationwide (All citizens)
Independence Day August 24 1 Nationwide (All citizens)
Defenders of Ukraine Day October 14 1 Nationwide (All citizens, military personnel)
Christmas Day December 25 1 Nationwide (Christians)

Ukraine Public Holidays