As the May holidays approach, Russians are gearing up for extended breaks in 2025, with official holidays scheduled from May 1 to May 4 and again from May 8 to May 11. These long-awaited periods of rest come as a result of strategic adjustments made to align weekends with public holidays, offering citizens a much-needed respite.
According to Yaroslav Nilov, head of the State Duma Committee on Social Policy, the decision to shift holidays was prompted by the alignment of regular weekends with public holidays. For instance, the holiday on January 4, which is recognized under the Labor Code, fell on a Saturday this year. In response, the Russian government moved this holiday to May 2. Additionally, February 23, which also fell on a Sunday, was shifted to May 8, providing an extra day off for workers.
The extended breaks are significant not only for the relaxation they offer but also for their historical importance. The first part of the holiday period, May 1 to May 4, celebrates the Day of Spring and Labor. The latter half, from May 8 to May 11, honors Victory Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory in World War II. May 8, 9, and 11 are designated as official days off to commemorate this milestone in Russian history.
For many citizens, these holidays provide an opportunity to unwind, spend time with loved ones, or partake in leisure activities. As anticipation builds, the May holidays are expected to bring communities together for festivities and celebrations, with numerous cities hosting special events.
In addition to the May holidays, Russia will also observe another extended break in June. A four-day holiday from June 12 to June 15 will commemorate Russia Day, continuing the tradition of significant national celebrations. Leading up to this holiday, workers will benefit from reduced hours, with pre-holiday workdays limited to seven hours.
In cities like Volgograd, the May holidays are expected to attract large numbers of visitors. The city is preparing for Victory Day celebrations, which will include various activities to honor the sacrifices made during World War II. The atmosphere in Volgograd is often described as deeply reflective, providing a chance for citizens to connect with the history of Russia’s naval fleet and its broader national narrative.
One of the main attractions during these celebrations will be the presence of several historic icebreakers, including the ‘Captain Nikolaev’, ‘Mudyug’, and ‘Captain Plakhin’. Visitors can also explore the floating museum ‘Icebreaker Krasin,’ offering an immersive experience into Russia’s maritime history.
As the May holidays draw near, excitement continues to build across the country. With only three working days between the two holiday periods, many are already planning how to make the most of their time off. Whether it’s taking a short trip, attending local events, or simply resting at home, the upcoming holidays are set to be a time of relaxation and reflection.
In conclusion, the extended May holidays in 2025—from May 1 to May 4 and May 8 to May 11—are a result of government planning aimed at aligning public holidays with weekends. These breaks, which commemorate both the Day of Spring and Labor and Victory Day, provide workers with an opportunity to rest, reflect, and celebrate the rich history of Russia. As the holidays approach, Russians across the nation eagerly await a chance to honor the past and embrace the spirit of community.
