As the month of May approaches, Russians are gearing up for a shift in the traditional format of their May holidays. In 2025, instead of the usual extended ten-day break, the holidays will be split into two distinct periods: from May 1 to May 4, focusing on the Spring and Labor Day, and from May 8 to May 11, which will honor Victory Day. This change aims to balance the interests of businesses with the desire of citizens to enjoy meaningful rest.
According to the Ministry of Labor, this new arrangement will allow for a more thoughtful celebration of these significant events. The first holiday block, dedicated to the celebration of labor, will provide a four-day break, while the second block will commemorate the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War. April 30 will serve as a shortened working day, leading into a notably brief workweek from May 5 to May 7, which will consist of just three working days.
In total, May 2025 will see 13 days off, an increase of two days compared to the previous year. This change is not just about time off; it also aims to stimulate domestic tourism. The shorter breaks provide an opportunity for Russians to embark on quick getaways within the country, exploring the rich cultural heritage of regions like the Golden Ring or enjoying nature.
However, the new holiday structure may pose challenges for those accustomed to longer vacations. Planning extended trips abroad could become more complicated, and some workers express concerns that the shorter breaks might not allow sufficient time to recharge before returning to their jobs. Olga Vladimirova, a labor law expert at HeadHunter, emphasizes that taking a vacation in May might not be as financially beneficial due to the high number of weekends.
Vladimirova pointed out that vacation pay is calculated based on the average daily earnings multiplied by the number of days taken off. Consequently, the more weekends and public holidays in a month, the lesser the vacation pay. For example, April 2025 features 22 working days, making it an ideal time to schedule a vacation. If employees take leave from April 28 to April 30, they can use just three vacation days to enjoy a full week off, thanks to the May holidays that follow.
In contrast, May presents a different scenario with only 20 working days and 11 days off. Employees who extend their holidays beyond May 5 to 7 may find their vacation payouts diminished. However, those who strategically plan their time off from May 5 to 11, capturing the weekends, will receive more substantial vacation payments, as they will be compensated for a full week rather than just three workdays.
The government has also made adjustments to the holiday calendar to enhance the length of the May breaks. By moving weekends from January 4 and February 23 to May 2 and May 8 respectively, both holiday periods now enjoy four days off. This creative solution aims to maximize the number of days off while still adhering to the new holiday structure.
Experts suggest that the short workweek from May 5 to May 7 is an excellent opportunity for employees to take leave and extend their time off. By planning vacations during this period, workers can enjoy longer weekends perfect for family outings or travel. Additionally, it is advised to utilize bank cards that offer cashback and favorable terms for purchases during the holiday season, maximizing the benefits of the time off.
Ultimately, the May holidays in 2025 represent an experimental approach to organizing leisure time, focusing on a more conscious celebration of national events and the promotion of domestic tourism. The effectiveness of this new model will largely depend on public reception and its overall impact on productivity and well-being.
If the experiment proves successful, it could lead to a permanent change in how May holidays are structured in Russia. Conversely, if the response is negative, there could be a return to the traditional lengthy May holidays. As the date draws nearer, Russians are left to ponder how best to navigate these changes, balancing the desire for rest with the practicalities of vacation planning.
