A beginner’s guide to Russian holidays
For Russians and Indians alike, holidays are more than just dates on a calendar. They are deeply rooted in tradition and symbolic meaning. From New Year's fireworks and the burning of the winter effigy to exchanging painted eggs at Easter, understanding these local customs can help you build strong and trusting business relationships with your partners. Here are some important details about Russian holidays that you should keep in mind.
1. New Year is the most important holiday
The arrival of the calendar New Year is the most anticipated celebration in Russia. On the night of 31 December to 1 January, many Russians stay up all night. The whole family gathers around a festive table laden with dishes, including the traditional Olivier salad of boiled vegetables, meat cooked in the oven with potatoes, and beetroot and pickled herring salad. First, they watch the President’s New Year’s address to the nation, and then they head outside for fireworks.
Congratulating your business partners
It’s best to give gifts in advance. In the Russian business world, people start wishing each other “Happy Upcoming New Year” two to three weeks before the actual holiday. Suitable gift options include sweets, fruit, souvenirs, stationery products, or branded corporate gift sets. A greeting card or verbal well-wishes accompanying the gift are considered appropriate. It’s usual to wish health, prosperity, and good luck for the coming year.
Restriction on expensive gifts
Before sending a valuable gift, it’s worth checking whether the company or agency has any restrictions on gift-giving. Russian officials—employees of government institutions—are prohibited from accepting gifts worth more than 3,000 roubles (approximately 2,500 rupees or 30 U.S. dollars). Under the law, anything more could be considered a bribe. Many companies have adopted the same limit in their corporate ethics policies and advise their employees not to accept gifts exceeding that amount.
2. Christmas is a time for good deeds
The state religion in Russia is Orthodox Christianity. Christmas, celebrated on 7 January according to the Orthodox calendar, is an important family holiday. During the period of Svyatki (Christmastide) and up until Theophany (Epiphany) on 19 January, many bigger companies organise charitable events or support existing social initiatives. For example, they may raise funds for low-income residents. You can support your business partners' initiatives by making a donation or participating in charitable activities in some other way.
3. Ice-bathing is a winter tradition
One of Russia’s more unusual winter traditions is Epiphany bathing on 19 January, when some people immerse themselves in icy water. In major cities, special sites are set up for this purpose and holes are cut into the river ice, often in the shape of a cross. The ritual has religious roots and symbolises the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan.
Showing interest in this tradition, or even wanting to witness it firsthand, will be met with respect and appreciation by your Russian partners. Its similarity to the Indian ritual of bathing in the waters of the Ganges on Kartika Purnima could spark an engaging conversation, as both ceremonies are considered acts of purification and a way to be freed from sins.
4. Long holidays in January and May
After the New Year, business in Russia comes to a standstill for almost two weeks. From 31 December until 8 or 9 January, offices are closed, and work only resumes after the holiday period. Many people completely switch off from work during this time, dedicating it instead to family leisure and travel.
It’s best to plan meetings and negotiations with this in mind—ideally aiming for mid-January or, even better, the end of the month.
A similar scenario occurs in May. At the start of the month, Russia celebrates two national holidays: 1 May is Labour Day and 9 May is Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Several bank holidays are declared in connection with these celebrations, and the exact dates vary each year. For example, in 2025, Russians will have time off from 1 to 4 May and from 8 to 11 May. Public holidays are normally marked in red on the official work calendar.
The May holidays are a time when many people put work aside and spend time outdoors. They head to their dachas—country houses with plots of land—or enjoy shashlyk outings, the Russian version of a barbecue. Either way, a relaxed atmosphere prevails in workplaces in early May. It’s best to leave important business matters until after the holiday period.
Read this article to find out more about Russian market specifics that you should take into account.
5. Gender-specific holidays
In Russia, there are holidays specifically dedicated to celebrating either men or women. International Women’s Day, also known simply as Women’s Day or Mother’s Day, falls on 8 March and is widely celebrated in workplaces. Men typically organise a festive meal in the office or at a restaurant, presenting their female colleagues with flowers and small gifts. Your congratulations would be more than appropriate—sending tulips, sweets, or fruit would be a thoughtful gesture.
On 23 February, it’s men’s turn to receive congratulations. Officially known as Defender of the Fatherland Day, this holiday historically honoured military personnel. However, it’s now common to congratulate all men, regardless of whether they have served in the armed forces. Suitable gifts for male business partners include souvenirs, stationery, or strong spirits.
6. Corporate celebrations: the office picnic
In Russia, holidays are celebrated not only with family, but also with colleagues. This is an integral part of corporate culture and a well-established tradition. Large companies often have a dedicated team responsible for organising leisure activities. Shared meals, restaurant outings, and sports events help strengthen team spirit. If you receive an invitation to one of these events, it’s worth making an effort to attend. Showing interest in the culture and traditions of your Russian colleagues will foster mutual understanding. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to have informal conversations with business partners and get to know each other better.
7. Celebrating professional recognition days
In Russia, specialists in almost every field have their own designated day. These days are officially recognised at the state level and are intended to honour professionals' achievements, highlight their significance, acknowledge their contribution to the development of society, and enhance the prestige of their profession.
Here are some key dates:
On these dates, industry-specific forums, fairs, seminars, and meetings with veterans of the field are held, and awards and prizes are announced. Although these dates are not bank holidays, companies often organise small receptions. Congratulating your business partners on their professional holiday will highlight your attention to detail. A congratulatory letter or a small gift would be a thoughtful gesture.