February 2025 is shaping up to be quite different for Russian workers as the schedule for public holidays undergoes significant changes. Traditionally celebrated as the Day of Defender of the Fatherland on February 23, this year’s observance will not result in the long weekends many have come to enjoy. Instead, the holiday will be effectively moved to May 8, as per the regulations set forth by the Russian government.
This change means workers will not have the usual day off on Monday, February 24, leading to widespread discontent among those who were hoping for time to relax. Instead, they will work throughout the start of the week following the holiday weekend, which consists only of Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23.
According to the government resolution No. 1335, the adjustment was made to promote longer stretches of holiday breaks later on. With February being just 28 days long, the absence of additional holiday periods means individuals will only get two official days off during the entirety of the month. Conversely, the relocation of the holiday will mean four consecutive days off during the first week of May (from May 1 to May 4) and again from May 8 to May 11.
Residents from various regions, including Tula and Kaluga, have expressed disappointment. "We will not have long weekends this February due to the transfer of one of the 'holiday' days to May," said reports from РИА ВладNews, reflecting the sentiment of many. The repercussions will be felt across the board, as February now presents just two weekends with the absence of extra time to celebrate the significant date commemorated by veterans.
This decision reflects the government's shift toward creating longer breaks, effectively promoting tourism and outdoor activities during the warmer months. Experts have explained this as part of strategies to redistribute holiday breaks, as highlighted by government officials, who stated, "The decision is part of the overall strategy to allocate holidays equitably, creating longer recreational periods during warm weather." The approach is expected to encourage both citizen engagement with nature and participation in holiday events.
The historical approach to the holiday, primarily viewed as the Day of Defender of the Fatherland, has often encouraged citizens across various regions to take advantage of the time off to participate in memorials and family gatherings. This February, unfortunately, forgoes the opportunity for such prolonged celebrations.
Observers have noted the significance of having both February and March host celebrations—February with the Day of Defender of the Fatherland and March with International Women’s Day. With significant shifts to the holiday schedules, it is not surprising citizens anticipate the adjustments coming with both excitement and uncertainty.
Interestingly, this pattern of shifting holidays has not affected March as it will continue to see shorter breaks. Still, following the pattern set out for May, there is also contemplation about whether future plans will involve similar strategies for February 2026.
Many will still enjoy the two weekends off and commemorate the holiday with respect, even if they must return to work the next day. The fact remains, citizens will quickly adjust to this new normal, preparing themselves for the longer weekends anticipated later on, particularly as the approach for May becomes clearer. Indeed, instead of the lengthy February breaks, the prospect of extended May getaways may provide broader opportunities for escapades.
Before May, the structure of weekends shows there are 20 working days and 8 weekend days across February, with weekends on the 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, and concluding with the last weekend on the 22-23. Therefore, Monday, February 24 will be the first working day of the week.
Despite these changes, it remains to be seen how citizens will adapt to this tweak. Russians have been known for their resilience, and as they grasp the opportunity for extended breaks, they will also adapt to the loss felt during February.
With varying perspectives on the adequacy of vacation time, this decision perhaps evokes communication and reconsideration for the future, allowing for reflection on how holidays are spaced throughout the year.
Overall, the official decree to move the holiday from 23 February to 8 May surely marks February 2025 as one of unanticipated change for employees, making the holiday shifts resonate well beyond mere calendar adjustments.