Traditional Russian Holidays: A Guide for International Students
Learning about these holidays is a great way to engage with Russian culture and make connections with your classmates and neighbors. Here’s a guide to some of the most cherished traditional Russian holidays, their celebrations and what makes them special.
December 31 – January 1: New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
In fact, the New Year is the most celebrated holiday in Russia. Celebrations start with family visits, celebratory meals and much sparkling wine. Russians watch the televised address from President Putin, followed by the chiming of the Kremlin’s clock at midnight, marking the start of the new year.
How is it celebrated? Families and friends get together to share traditional dishes like Olivier salad, salad with herring and beetroot, tangerins and oranges. Across Russia people enjoy fireworks and street parties.
Traditions to Note: Similar to a Christmas tree, Russian New Year’s tree is decorated in homes and public spaces. New Year’s Eve is also a time for toasts and heartfelt wishes for the year ahead.
Tip for Students: Attend a celebration near you or participate in university-run events. It’s a good way to feel the warmth of Russian hospitality.
Orthodox Christmas (January 7)
How is It celebrated? Orthodox Christians go to midnight church services on the Christmas Eve.
The meal, enjoyed by families following a period of fasting, includes dishes such as kutya (a sweet grain pudding). On this holiday people cast magic spells, especially common in rural areas.
Tip for Students: Attend a local church to witness the beautiful rituals and choral music, or learn to cook a traditional dish among friends.
Maslenitsa (end of February to early in March)
Maslenitsa or Pancake Week is Russia’s version of Mardi Gras. It signifies both the end of winter and the start of Lent for Orthodox Christians.
How is It celebrated? The main tradition is eating pancakes (blini) which symbolize the sun. They come topped with a variety of spreads — jam, sour cream and caviar. Similarly outside, celebrations feature sledding, bonfires and a straw effigy — which is a symbol for the winter — that you burn. Moreover there are folk performances and traditional games, along with craft fairs, also contribute to the festive environment.
Historical Tradition: Maslenitsa is rooted in pagan Slav traditions that honored the sun and the end of winter. Today it is a cultural and a religious holiday.
Tip for Students: Visit a park or public space to partake in festivities and eat some tasty blini.
Victory Day
Victory Day is a historically important holiday marking the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. It’s a day of national pride and reflection.
How is It celebrated? There are military parades in cities across Russia, with the largest on Red Square in Moscow. People place flowers at war memorials and wear St. George’s ribbons as symbols of remembrance and in the evening you can enjoy fireworks illuminating the sky.
This holiday is so important for Russians because many families have stories of relatives who were in the war. The Immortal Regiment march, in which people carry portraits of their ancestors who fought in the war, has become a cherished tradition.
Tip for Students: Consider attending a local parade, or visiting a war memorial, to pay your respects and learn more about Russian history.
Russia Day
Russia Day commemorates the country’s sovereignty, and is often likened to Independence Day in other countries.
How is It celebrated? In major cities official ceremonies and concerts are staged. It is common for people to spend the day outdoors, picnicking with family and friends. The celebrations end with fireworks displays. Though the holiday is new (it only became official in 1992), it is increasingly observed as a day to reflect on Russian accomplishments and cultural identity.
Small tip: Visit nearby parkways and partake in outdoor activities with friends.
National Unity Day
This holiday, which was introduced in 2005, replaced the former Soviet-era Revolution Day. It marks the liberation of Russia from Polish occupation in 1612 and celebrates unity and patriotism.
How is It Celebrated? Across the country, patriotic events are held, from rallies to concerts.
They are part of historical reenactments and cultural festivals. Many museums and exhibitions organize particular events.
Advice for students: Use the day off to research Russian history and to watch cultural performances.
Other Notable Holidays
International Women’s Day (March 8): A day to shower women with flowers, gifts, and kind words.
Defender of the Fatherland Day (February 23): Once a purely military holiday, it’s now a holiday of all men.
Easter (Date Varies): Orthodox Easter: Egg dyeing, sweet bread kulich. Beautiful church services.
Don’t be shy about joining in celebrations, eating blini during Maslenitsa or taking to the streets for a Victory Day parade. Russians are fond of sharing their traditions.
Secondly, you should keep in mind that many holidays have deep historical and cultural significance. Know what they are all about, so you can appreciate them better.
Thirdly, don’t forget that each holiday comes with its own culinary traditions. Treat yourself to festive foods for a taste of Russian culture.
Use the holidays as a way to meet classmates and neighbors. Duration of time spent together makes long time friends. Russian holidays are bright, historical, religious and community events. Attending these festivities will allow you to gain insight into Russian culture while also giving you mind-blowing memories to take with you from this intriguing nation. Take time to enjoy the customs, sample the seasonal fare and meet the people around you. Happy holidays!
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