Public holidays in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan began celebrating New Year in line with European traditions during the Russian Empire’s influence in the mid-19th century, and today, it remains one of the country’s most cherished holidays.

In Kazakhstan, the central figures of New Year’s festivities are Ayaz Ata (Father Frost) and his granddaughter Qar Qiz (Snow Maiden). Together, they deliver gifts and spread joy across homes, schools, and public spaces throughout the nation. Even as children grow into adults, the magic of these New Year’s celebrations—carefully crafted by their parents and relatives—leaves an indelible mark, inspiring them to recreate the same festive atmosphere for future generations.

At the stroke of midnight on December 31st, people usher in the New Year with spirited congratulations, a dazzling display of fireworks, heartfelt toasts, and lavish feasts shared with family and friends. Though traditionally a family-oriented celebration, many residents in Kazakhstan’s larger cities now opt to ring in the New Year at festive events hosted by restaurants and bars. Read more…

Orthodox Christians in Kazakhstan, along with their counterparts around the world, celebrate Christmas on January 7th. The festive day is marked by the chiming of church bells and the recitation of special liturgies in Orthodox churches throughout the country. The main service is held at the Assumption Cathedral in the capital, Astana, the largest Orthodox church in Central Asia, capable of accommodating up to four thousand worshippers.

After the service, it is customary for believers to visit friends and family, exchanging gifts, sweets, and special Christmas presents for children. In 2005, Orthodox Christmas was declared an official holiday in Kazakhstan, and today, the celebration is observed by many, regardless of religious or ethnic background.

International Women’s Day, widely celebrated in Kazakhstan and around the world, has a long history. It dates back to 1908, when over fifteen thousand women marched through the streets of New York, demanding equal rights, shorter working hours, better pay, and the end of child labor. Two years later, at a conference in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin proposed an international day for women to unite in advocating for their rights through rallies and demonstrations.

In Kazakhstan, March 8th was designated a public holiday in 1966. In the lead-up to the celebration, the president honors mothers with multiple children and other distinguished women with state awards. On this day, men express their appreciation by giving flowers and gifts to the women in their lives. Schools, businesses, and public venues also host events recognizing women’s contributions to society. Read more…

Eid al-Adha, one of the most important Islamic holidays in Kazakhstan, marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage. Celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar calendar’s final month, it is a time for family, charity, and reflection. A key tradition is the sacrifice of an animal, such as a cow, ram, or camel, with the meat being distributed to the poor. Charitable activities and prayer services (ait-namaz) are central to the day, and celebrations often extend beyond the Muslim community to include people of various faiths across Kazakhstan.

Constitution Day commemorates the approval of Kazakhstan’s Constitution, which was adopted through a national referendum on August 30, 1995. This day celebrates the fundamental values of the country, including democracy, secularism, and the protection of individual rights. In the capital, numerous events take place, from concerts featuring Kazakh and international pop stars to sports festivals where citizens can participate in games like tug-of-war, streetball, and traditional nomadic activities. The day concludes with spectacular fireworks displays.

Republic Day was originally celebrated until 2009, when it was removed from the official calendar, but it was reinstated in 2022 at the proposal of President Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev. Now celebrated on October 25, the day is marked with concerts, scientific conferences, cultural competitions, and patriotic events across Kazakhstan, recognizing the significance of the nation’s history and progress.

Independence Day on December 16 is one of Kazakhstan’s most significant national holidays, celebrating the country’s declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The festivities span two days and include large-scale events such as award ceremonies for cultural and political figures, concerts, and parades. The celebrations culminate in a dazzling fireworks display, as Kazakhstanis across the country reflect on their journey of independence.