Public Holidays in Belarus 2024
Belarus observes several public holidays throughout the year, each with its own cultural, historical, and religious significance. These holidays are celebrated with various traditions, ceremonies, and festivities, reflecting the rich heritage of the country. In this guide, we will explore the public holidays in Belarus for the year 2024, providing detailed descriptions of each holiday along with information on the groups entitled to days off.
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2024
New Year’s Day is celebrated worldwide on January 1st, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. In Belarus, it is a time for festive gatherings, fireworks displays, and the exchange of gifts among family and friends.
Days off: New Year’s Day is a public holiday in Belarus, observed by government offices, businesses, and schools, providing a day off for employees and students.
Orthodox Christmas – January 7, 2024
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated by the Belarusian Orthodox Christian community on January 7th, following the Julian calendar. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed with religious services, traditions, and family gatherings.
Days off: Orthodox Christmas is not an official public holiday in Belarus, but it is recognized and celebrated by the Orthodox Christian community.
International Women’s Day – March 8, 2024
International Women’s Day is celebrated globally to honor the achievements of women in various fields and advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. In Belarus, it is a day to appreciate and recognize the contributions of women to society, with flowers, gifts, and special events.
Days off: International Women’s Day is a public holiday in Belarus, observed by government offices, businesses, and schools, providing a day off for employees and students.
Labour Day – May 1, 2024
Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is observed internationally to honor the contributions of workers to society and advocate for labor rights and improved working conditions. In Belarus, it is marked by rallies, demonstrations, and other events organized by trade unions and labor organizations.
Days off: Labour Day is a public holiday in Belarus, observed by government offices, businesses, and schools, providing a day off for employees and students.
Victory Day – May 9, 2024
Victory Day commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. In Belarus, it is a day to honor the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians during the war, with parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and other commemorative events.
Days off: Victory Day is a public holiday in Belarus, observed by government offices, businesses, and schools, providing a day off for employees and students.
Independence Day – July 3, 2024
Independence Day in Belarus commemorates the declaration of sovereignty and independence from the Soviet Union on July 3, 1944. It is a day of national pride and patriotism, marked by flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, and fireworks displays.
Days off: Independence Day is a public holiday in Belarus, observed by government offices, businesses, and schools, providing a day off for employees and students.
Unity Day – October 14, 2024
Unity Day, also known as the Day of People’s Unity or Dziady, celebrates the solidarity and unity of the Belarusian people. It is a day to remember and honor the country’s history, culture, and national identity, with cultural events, concerts, and gatherings.
Days off: Unity Day is not a public holiday in Belarus.
October Revolution Day – November 7, 2024
October Revolution Day commemorates the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, which led to the establishment of the Soviet Union. While the holiday was abolished in 1996, some Belarusians still observe it privately or through political gatherings.
Days off: October Revolution Day is not a public holiday in Belarus.
Christmas Day – December 25, 2024
Christmas Day is celebrated by the Belarusian Catholic and Protestant communities on December 25th, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. It is observed with religious services, traditions, and family gatherings.
Days off: Christmas Day is not a public holiday in Belarus, but it is recognized and celebrated by the Catholic and Protestant communities.
Table: Summary of Public Holidays in Belarus 2024
| Holiday | Date | Description | Days Off for Groups |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Beginning of the Gregorian calendar year | Nationwide |
| Orthodox Christmas | January 7 | Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ (Orthodox) | Not applicable |
| International Women’s Day | March 8 | Celebration of women’s achievements | Nationwide |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Celebration of workers’ contributions | Nationwide |
| Victory Day | May 9 | Commemoration of World War II victory | Nationwide |
| Independence Day | July 3 | Celebration of Belarusian independence | Nationwide |
| Unity Day | October 14 | Celebration of national unity and identity | Not applicable |
| October Revolution Day | November 7 | Commemoration of the October Revolution | Not applicable |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ (Catholic/Protestant) | Not applicable |