2024 Public Holidays in Kazakhstan

Public Holidays in Kazakhstan in 2024

Kazakhstan, a diverse and culturally rich country in Central Asia, celebrates various public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are rooted in the nation’s history, traditions, and religious beliefs. In 2024, Kazakhstan will observe a range of public holidays, each with its own significance and customs.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day (Zhety Zhasyl Kūn) – January 1st

New Year’s Day in Kazakhstan is celebrated with great enthusiasm and festivity. It marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is observed with fireworks, parties, and family gatherings. Many people exchange gifts and enjoy traditional Kazakh dishes to welcome the new year.

International Women’s Day (Qayraq Kūnī) – March 8th

International Women’s Day is celebrated in Kazakhstan to honor women’s achievements and contributions to society. It is a day to show appreciation for mothers, wives, daughters, and female colleagues. Many people give flowers and gifts to women and participate in events that promote gender equality and women’s rights.

Nauryz Meyrami (Nauryz Meyrami) – March 22nd

Nauryz Meyrami is an ancient festival celebrated by Kazakhs and many other Central Asian communities to mark the arrival of spring and the New Year in the traditional Kazakh calendar. It is a time for renewal, prosperity, and family gatherings. Nauryz festivities include music, dancing, feasting, and various cultural activities.

Unity Day of the People of Kazakhstan (Kazakstan Halqy Týindagy Kýnish Kūnі) – May 1st

Unity Day of the People of Kazakhstan celebrates the unity and diversity of Kazakhstan’s ethnic and cultural groups. It is a day to promote national harmony, multiculturalism, and social cohesion. Many communities organize cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions to celebrate Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage.

Victory Day (May 9th) – May 9th

Victory Day commemorates the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II. It is a day to honor the sacrifices of those who fought and died during the war. In Kazakhstan, Victory Day is celebrated with parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and patriotic events to pay tribute to veterans and remember the horrors of war.

Capital City Day (Astana Kūnі) – July 6th

Capital City Day celebrates the founding of Kazakhstan’s capital city, Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana). It is a day to commemorate the city’s development and growth as the political, economic, and cultural center of Kazakhstan. Many events and activities are organized to showcase Nur-Sultan’s achievements and highlight its significance to the nation.

Constitution Day (Konstitūciya Kūnі) – August 30th

Constitution Day commemorates the adoption of Kazakhstan’s constitution on August 30, 1995. It is a day to reflect on the principles of democracy, rule of law, and human rights enshrined in the constitution. Many people participate in educational programs, seminars, and discussions to promote constitutional values and civic engagement.

Defender of the Fatherland Day (Qazaqstan Obası Qorshyg’y Kūnі) – May 7th

Defender of the Fatherland Day honors the courage and sacrifice of Kazakhstan’s armed forces personnel. It is a day to pay tribute to soldiers, veterans, and their families for their service and dedication to protecting the nation’s security and sovereignty. Many communities organize military parades, concerts, and commemorative events to honor Kazakhstan’s defenders.

Table of Public Holidays and Days Off