Kazakhstan, a lively nation in Central Asia, celebrates many public holidays that show its rich history, culture, and values. From the happy festivities of New Year’s Day to the respectful remembrance of Victory Day, these holidays provide insight into the heart of the Kazakh people.
As you learn about each celebration, you’ll see a nation that respects its ancient traditions, values its multicultural heritage, and looks forward to a bright future. Whether it’s the vibrant celebrations of Nowruz, the heartfelt appreciation on International Women’s Day, or the strong patriotism of Independence Day, public holidays in Kazakhstan in 2025 promise a year full of meaning, unity, and joy.
Join us on this fascinating journey through Kazakhstani culture and experience the warmth and spirit of this wonderful land.
| Also Read: Public Holidays In Indonesia In 2025 |
Public Holidays in Kazakhstan In 2025
Kazakhstan’s public holidays in 2025 provide a fascinating look into the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and important traditions. From joyful celebrations to solemn remembrances, these holidays unite the people of Kazakhstan to honor their past, enjoy their present, and look forward to a brighter future.
Here are the list of Public Holidays in Kazakhstan In 2025:
New Year’s Day (January 1)
New Year’s Day is a joyful holiday in Kazakhstan, as in many places worldwide. It marks the beginning of the new year on the Gregorian calendar. People often celebrate on New Year’s Eve with parties, fireworks, and countdowns.
On New Year’s Day, families and friends gather for meals, exchange gifts, and share good wishes for the year ahead. It’s a time of happiness, new beginnings, and setting new goals. Many people have the day off to relax and enjoy the festivities. Decorations like New Year’s trees are common. Overall, New Year’s is a loved holiday and a time to come together with loved ones.
Orthodox Christmas Day (January 7)
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated by many Christians in Kazakhstan who follow the Julian calendar. It honors the birth of Jesus Christ. The day is marked by special church services, nativity plays, and festive meals. Families gather to celebrate and exchange gifts.
Though not an official public holiday, many Orthodox Christians take the day off to observe this significant religious festival. Decorations like Christmas lights and trees are common. Overall, Orthodox Christmas is a time of faith, family, and festivity for those who celebrate it in Kazakhstan.
International Women’s Day (March 8)
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in Kazakhstan and around the world. It has been observed since the early 1900s. On this day, people honor important women in their lives such as mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, friends, and colleagues.
Many men give flowers and gifts to the women they know to show appreciation. Special events and media coverage highlight gender equality issues and celebrate progress. Companies may host special gatherings to recognize their female employees. Overall, it’s a day to support women’s rights and celebrate women’s important role in society.
Nowruz (March 21-23)
Nowruz is an ancient festival that welcomes the start of spring. Originating in Persia, it’s celebrated across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and beyond. In Kazakhstan, Nowruz is an official public holiday celebrated with enthusiasm. Festivities include traditional music and dance, street fairs, games, and sports.
Families enjoy festive meals, including dishes like Nauryz kozhe, a traditional soup. People decorate their homes with flowers and wheat grass, symbolizing renewal. Nowruz promotes peace, solidarity, and friendship among neighbors and nations. It’s a cherished holiday and recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Unity Day (May 1)
Unity Day celebrates Kazakhstan’s ethnic and cultural diversity. Kazakhstan is home to over 100 different ethnicities, including Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, Ukrainians, Germans, and others. Established in 1996, this holiday promotes harmony and understanding among different groups. Celebrations include cultural performances, traditional music and dance, parades, and street fairs showcasing Kazakhstan’s multicultural heritage. Political leaders often give speeches emphasizing the importance of unity and tolerance.
Overall, Unity Day is about appreciating diversity, fostering a national identity, and strengthening social bonds. It’s a time to celebrate the vibrant cultures that make up Kazakhstan.
Defender’s Day (May 7)
Defender’s Day honors Kazakhstan’s military and their role in protecting the nation’s sovereignty and security. Established in 2012, it coincides with the anniversary of Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces founding in 1992 after independence.
The holiday pays tribute to all who serve or have served in the military, including soldiers, veterans, and those who died in the line of duty. Celebrations include military parades, ceremonies at war memorials, and events honoring veterans. Political leaders give speeches expressing gratitude for the military’s service. Overall, Defender’s Day is about recognizing the bravery and sacrifice of Kazakhstan’s soldiers and their essential role in safeguarding the nation.
Victory Day (May 9)
Victory Day, also known as the Day of Remembrance and Honor, commemorates the end of World War II and honors those who fought in it. This holiday has been observed since Soviet times and remains significant in Kazakhstan and other former Soviet republics. Celebrations include military parades, ceremonies at war memorials, and events honoring veterans.
People give flowers and gifts to veterans to express appreciation for their service. Films and documentaries about the war are often broadcast. The day is a solemn occasion to remember the sacrifices made during the war and to promote peace. It’s also a time to honor Kazakhstan’s contributions to the Allied victory, including the many Kazakhs who fought and died in the conflict.
Kurban Ait (July 20-21)
Kurban Ait, also known as Eid al-Adha, is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims in Kazakhstan and worldwide. It honors the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah (God). The holiday also marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Celebrations include special prayers at mosques, festive meals with family and friends, and the sacrifice of a lamb or other animal, with the meat shared among family, friends, and the needy.
People dress in their finest clothes and exchange gifts and greetings. Charity and compassion are important themes. Kurban Ait is a time for Muslims to come together, strengthen community ties, and express gratitude for Allah’s blessings.
Capital Day (July 6)
Capital Day, also known as Nur-Sultan Day, commemorates the decision to move Kazakhstan’s capital from Almaty to Astana (now called Nur-Sultan) in 1994. The holiday celebrates the capital city’s rapid development and modernization since then. Festivities include concerts, fireworks, sporting events, and cultural performances. The city’s modern architecture, such as the iconic Baiterek Tower, is showcased.
Political leaders give speeches highlighting the capital’s importance and future plans for development. Overall, Capital Day is a time to take pride in Nur-Sultan’s achievements and its role as the nation’s political and cultural center. It’s a celebration of Kazakhstan’s progress and aspirations for the future.
Constitution Day (August 30)
Constitution Day commemorates the adoption of Kazakhstan’s first post-independence constitution on August 30, 1995. The constitution established Kazakhstan as a democratic, secular state and outlined citizens’ fundamental rights and freedoms. The holiday celebrates Kazakhstan’s sovereignty and the rule of law. Festivities include official ceremonies, educational events about the constitution, and citizen award ceremonies.
Political leaders give speeches emphasizing the importance of the constitution and democracy. Schools and universities hold special lessons or events on constitutional topics. Overall, Constitution Day is a time to reflect on Kazakhstan’s democratic principles, celebrate the rights and freedoms in the constitution, and promote civic engagement and responsibility.
Republic Day (October 25)
Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Constitutional Law on the Independence of the Republic of Kazakhstan on October 25, 1990. This law declared Kazakhstan’s state sovereignty and paved the way for full independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The holiday celebrates Kazakhstan’s statehood and the progress made since independence. Festivities include official ceremonies, cultural events, concerts, and fireworks. Political leaders give speeches highlighting Kazakhstan’s achievements and future goals. Schools and universities hold special lessons or events on topics related to independence and statehood.
Overall, Republic Day is a time to take pride in Kazakhstan’s independence, reflect on the nation’s journey since 1990, and look forward to its future as a sovereign state.
Independence Day (December 16)
Independence Day is one of Kazakhstan’s most important national holidays, commemorating the country’s independence from the Soviet Union on December 16, 1991. The holiday celebrates Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, national identity, and progress since independence.
Festivities include grand official ceremonies, military parades, fireworks, concerts, and cultural events. Political leaders give speeches highlighting Kazakhstan’s achievements and future goals. Schools and universities hold special lessons or events on topics related to independence and national history. People may dress in traditional Kazakh clothing or display the national flag.
Overall, Independence Day is a time for patriotism, national pride, and celebration of Kazakhstan’s freedom and achievements as an independent nation. It’s a day to honor the country’s history, culture, and aspirations for the future.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| New Year’s Day Holiday | Jan 02, 2025 | Thursday |
| Orthodox Christmas Day | Jan 07, 2025 | Tuesday |
| International Women’s Day | Mar 08, 2025 | Saturday |
| Nowruz | Mar 21, 2025 | Friday |
| Nowruz Holiday | Mar 22, 2025 | Saturday |
| Nowruz Holiday | Mar 23, 2025 | Sunday |
| Nowruz Holiday | Mar 24, 2025 | Monday |
| Unity Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Defender’s Day | May 07, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Victory Day | May 09, 2025 | Friday |
| Kurban Ait | Jun 06, 2025 | Friday |
| Capital Day | Jul 06, 2025 | Sunday |
| Capital Day Holiday | Jul 07, 2025 | Monday |
| Constitution Day | Aug 30, 2025 | Saturday |
| Republic Day | Oct 25, 2025 | Saturday |
| Independence Day | Dec 16, 2025 | Tuesday |