Russians to Enjoy a 12-Day Break During the Upcoming New Year Celebrations
According to a draft calendar reported by RIA Novosti, the Russian Ministry of Labor has proposed an optimised work and rest schedule for 2026, featuring extended holiday periods and a new public holiday.
The most notable change is the extension of the New Year holidays, which will last 12 days from December 31, 2025, to January 11, 2026. This decision aims to postpone days off that fall on weekends, effectively combining them with the holiday period.
In addition to the extended New Year celebrations, multiple three-day weekends have been proposed throughout the year. In February, citizens can expect a break from February 21 to 23. March will see a three-day weekend from March 7 to 9, while May will have two three-day breaks: May 1 to 3 and May 9 to 11.
June will also offer a three-day weekend, coinciding with Russia Day on June 12. The year will conclude with a public holiday on November 4, National Unity Day.
The draft calendar also includes December 31, 2026, as a public holiday. For the May holidays, Russians will enjoy a six-day break, including May 1-3 and May 9-11.
Citizens will also have time off on February 23, March 8, and 9 in the spring. National Unity Day, a significant Russian holiday, is included in the draft calendar for 2026.
This draft calendar is subject to government approval and public discussion, but it outlines a promising year for extended holidays and a new public holiday in Russia. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
[1] RIA Novosti: Russian Ministry of Labor proposes draft calendar of holidays and public holidays for 2026 [3] RIA Novosti: National Unity Day included in draft calendar of holidays and public holidays for 2026
The Russian Ministry of Labor's proposed calendar for 2026 includes extended holidays and a new public holiday, with the New Year holidays lasting 12 days and multiple three-day weekends scattered throughout the year. This proposed calendar is significant in Russian politics, as it could impact the general-news landscape for work and rest periods in 2026.
