As the May holidays approach, Russians are gearing up for an extended break, with official rest periods scheduled from May 1 to May 4 and again from May 8 to May 11, 2025. These long-awaited holidays, which many working citizens look forward to, have been made possible due to the strategic shifting of weekends and public holidays.
According to Yaroslav Nilov, the head of the State Duma Committee on Social Policy, the adjustments stem from the alignment of regular weekends with public holidays. Specifically, the holiday on January 4, which is recognized under the Labor Code, coincided with a Saturday. As a result, the Russian government decided to move this holiday to May 2. Similarly, February 23, which fell on a Sunday this year, was also shifted, leading to an additional day off on May 8.
The long May holidays are not just a time for relaxation; they also commemorate significant events in Russian history. The first part of the holiday period celebrates the Day of Spring and Labor, while the latter half honors Victory Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. This year, May 8, 9, and 11 are designated as days off in recognition of this important occasion.
For many, these holidays represent a much-needed break from work, providing an opportunity to spend time with family and friends or to engage in leisure activities. The anticipation surrounding the May holidays is palpable, as citizens across the country prepare for festivities and gatherings.
In addition to the extended breaks in May, there is more good news for workers. In June, another four-day holiday is scheduled from June 12 to June 15 to celebrate Russia Day. As with the May holidays, the days leading up to this celebration will also see a reduction in working hours, with pre-holiday days legally required to have only seven hours of work.
The upcoming May holidays are expected to attract many visitors, especially in cities with notable celebrations. For instance, in Volgograd, locals are eagerly awaiting the festivities associated with Victory Day, which will see various events and activities designed to honor the sacrifices made during World War II. The atmosphere during this time is often described as unique, as it allows citizens to connect with the history of the Russian naval fleet and the broader narrative of national pride.
Among the main attractions during these celebrations will be several icebreakers, including the 'Captain Nikolaev', 'Mudyug', and 'Captain Plakhin'. A special program is also planned aboard the floating museum 'Icebreaker Krasin', which promises to offer visitors an immersive experience into Russia's maritime history.
As the May holidays draw near, excitement is building across the nation. With only three working days between the two holiday periods, many are already making plans for how to best utilize their time off. Whether it’s taking a short trip, enjoying local events, or simply resting at home, the upcoming holidays are set to be a time of joy and reflection.
In summary, the extended May holidays in 2025, from May 1 to May 4 and May 8 to May 11, are a result of careful planning and adjustments made by the government to align weekends with public holidays. This year’s celebrations not only honor the Day of Spring and Labor and Victory Day but also provide a much-needed respite for workers across the country.
As Russians prepare to celebrate these significant occasions, the anticipation of extended time off and the opportunity to engage with their rich history continues to resonate throughout the nation. The May holidays are more than just time off; they represent a moment to come together, honor the past, and celebrate the spirit of community.
