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Upcoming Holidays and Celebrations in Ukraine

Ukraine

Day Date Holiday Type
Sunday Jan 01,2023 New Year's Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Saturday Jan 07,2023 Orthodox Christmas Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Saturday Jan 14,2023 Orthodox New Year Observance, Orthodox
Thursday Jan 19,2023 Epiphany Observance
Sunday Jan 22,2023 Ukrainian Unity Day Observance
Tuesday Feb 14,2023 Valentine's Day Observance
Wednesday Mar 08,2023 International Women's Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Sunday Mar 26,2023 Daylight Saving Time starts Clock change/Daylight Saving Time
Saturday Apr 01,2023 April Fools Observance
Sunday Apr 16,2023 Orthodox Easter Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Saturday Apr 22,2023 Ramadan Bayram (Tentative Date) Muslim
Monday May 01,2023 Labor Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Tuesday May 09,2023 Victory Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Sunday May 14,2023 Mother's Day Observance
Saturday May 20,2023 Europe Day Observance
Sunday May 28,2023 Kyiv Day Observance
Thursday Jun 01,2023 Children's Day Observance
Sunday Jun 04,2023 Orthodox Pentecost (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Tuesday Jun 06,2023 Journalists' Day Observance
Sunday Jun 18,2023 Father's Day Observance
Thursday Jun 22,2023 Day of Mourning and Commemoration of War Victims Observance
Wednesday Jun 28,2023 Constitution Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Thursday Jun 29,2023 Qurban Bayram (Tentative Date) Muslim
Sunday Jul 02,2023 Navy Day Observance
Thursday Jul 06,2023 Kupala Night Observance
Saturday Jul 08,2023 Family Day Observance
Friday Jul 28,2023 Baptism of Kyivan Rus Observance
Friday Jul 28,2023 Ukrainian Statehood Day Suspended National Holiday
Thursday Aug 24,2023 Independence Day (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Saturday Oct 14,2023 Day of Defenders and Defenders of Ukraine (Suspended) Suspended National Holiday
Saturday Oct 28,2023 Day of Liberation of Ukraine from Fascist Invaders Observance
Sunday Oct 29,2023 Daylight Saving Time ends Clock change/Daylight Saving Time
Thursday Nov 09,2023 Cultural Workers and Folk Artists Day Observance
Tuesday Nov 21,2023 Dignity and Freedom Day Observance
Wednesday Dec 06,2023 Army Day Observance
Wednesday Dec 06,2023 St. Nicholas Day Observance, Orthodox
Monday Dec 25,2023 Christmas Day Suspended National Holiday
**Note: While we strive for accuracy in researching and updating holiday dates, some information in the table above might be preliminary. Should you come across any discrepancies, kindly inform us so we can ensure precise information. Thank you for your understanding!

New Year's Day (Suspended)

New Year's Day, despite its suspension, is one of Ukraine's most celebrated holidays. It marks the beginning of the year with joy, fireworks, and festive gatherings. Families and friends come together to exchange gifts and share special meals, creating cherished memories. It holds cultural importance as a time for reflection and setting intentions for the year ahead.

Orthodox Christmas Day (Suspended)

Orthodox Christmas, though suspended, is significant for many Ukrainians. Celebrated on January 7th, it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Families attend church services, partake in a traditional Holy Supper, and exchange gifts. This holiday is deeply rooted in Ukrainian culture and traditions, emphasizing faith and unity within the Orthodox Christian community.

Orthodox New Year

Orthodox New Year, celebrated on January 14th, follows the Julian calendar. It's a time for religious observance and reflection, marked by church services and prayers. Ukrainians gather with family to enjoy a feast, symbolizing hope for the year ahead. This holiday carries cultural importance in preserving Orthodox customs and connecting with spirituality.

Epiphany

Epiphany, celebrated on January 19th, is a sacred holiday in Ukraine. It commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. On this day, many brave the cold to participate in the "Blessing of the Waters" ritual, believed to bring health and purification. It signifies faith and spiritual cleansing, upholding a deep cultural connection to Orthodox Christianity.

Ukrainian Unity Day

Ukrainian Unity Day on January 22nd celebrates the unification of East and West Ukraine in 1919. It promotes national unity and identity. Ukrainians gather for patriotic events, cultural performances, and discussions about the country's future. This day fosters a strong sense of belonging and cultural pride among the people.

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14th, transcends borders and cultures. In Ukraine, it's a day to express love and affection towards partners and friends. People exchange heartfelt messages, flowers, and gifts. While not traditionally Ukrainian, it promotes love and emotional connections, making it a cherished occasion for all.

International Women's Day (Suspended)

International Women's Day, despite suspension, remains a significant day in Ukraine. Celebrated on March 8th, it honors women's achievements and contributions. It's a time for flowers, gifts, and heartfelt wishes to appreciate the women in one's life. This day holds cultural importance by recognizing the vital role of women in society.

Daylight Saving Time starts

Daylight Saving Time starts in March, bringing longer daylight hours. While not a holiday, it impacts daily life by adjusting clocks forward. Ukrainians enjoy more daylight in the evenings, making it easier to engage in outdoor activities and appreciate the changing seasons. A practical adjustment with cultural influence on daily routines.

April Fools

April Fools' Day, celebrated on April 1st, is a day of playful pranks and jokes. Ukrainians enjoy light-hearted humor, trying to fool friends and family. While not a traditional holiday, it brings laughter and joy, fostering bonds through shared humor and fun traditions.

Orthodox Easter Day (Suspended)

Orthodox Easter is a vital holiday, suspended in Ukraine, celebrated according to the Julian calendar. It symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Families attend midnight church services and share the traditional Easter basket with blessed foods. It holds immense cultural and religious significance for Orthodox Christians.

Ramadan Bayram (Tentative Date)

Ramadan Bayram, with a tentative date, is a significant Muslim holiday in Ukraine. It marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. Families come together to break the fast, share meals, and exchange gifts. This holiday promotes cultural diversity and religious tolerance within the country.

Labor Day (Suspended)

Labor Day, though suspended, is celebrated on May 1st to honor workers' achievements. Ukrainians participate in parades, rallies, and cultural events, emphasizing the value of labor. It represents workers' rights and unity, contributing to the country's labor history and promoting workers' well-being.

Victory Day (Suspended)

Victory Day, suspended but historically celebrated on May 9th, marks the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Ukrainians honor veterans with parades and ceremonies. It symbolizes resilience, unity, and the sacrifices made during the war, shaping the country's historical and cultural memory.

Mother's Day

Mother's Day, celebrated on the second Sunday of May, is a day to honor and express gratitude to mothers and mother figures. Ukrainians give gifts, flowers, and spend quality time with their mothers. It holds cultural importance by recognizing the nurturing role of mothers in Ukrainian families.

Europe Day

Europe Day, observed on May 21st, celebrates Ukraine's European aspirations. It includes various cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions promoting European values. This day signifies Ukraine's commitment to European integration and cultural exchange, fostering unity and cooperation.

Kyiv Day

Kyiv Day, celebrated on the last weekend of May, honors the capital city's rich history and culture. Festivities include concerts, exhibitions, and historical reenactments. It reinforces Kyiv's significance as the cultural and political heart of Ukraine, preserving its heritage and identity.

Children's Day

Children's Day, celebrated on June 1st, focuses on children's well-being and happiness. Families and schools organize special activities and events for children. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing the younger generation and fostering a caring and supportive environment for children's growth.

Orthodox Pentecost (Suspended)

Orthodox Pentecost, suspended but celebrated 50 days after Easter, commemorates the Holy Spirit's descent upon the apostles. It's a time for church services and prayers. This holiday deepens the spiritual connection for Orthodox Christians, reinforcing faith and traditions within the culture.

Journalists' Day

Journalists' Day on June 6th acknowledges the vital role of the media in society. Events and awards ceremonies honor journalists for their contributions. It emphasizes the importance of freedom of the press and responsible reporting, promoting transparency and information sharing in Ukrainian culture.

Father's Day

Father's Day, celebrated on the third Sunday of June, honors fathers and paternal figures. Ukrainians express gratitude through gifts and quality time. It recognizes the role of fathers in nurturing and guiding their children, fostering strong family bonds and cultural appreciation for paternal care.

Day of Mourning and Commemoration of War Victims

Day of Mourning, observed on June 22nd, pays tribute to the victims of war and political repression in Ukraine. It's a solemn day of remembrance, with ceremonies and moments of silence. It underscores the importance of preserving historical memory and acknowledging the sacrifices made for the country's freedom.

Constitution Day (Suspended)

Constitution Day, suspended but traditionally celebrated on June 28th, marks Ukraine's adoption of the Constitution in 1996. It underscores the nation's commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law. This day promotes constitutional values and their role in shaping Ukrainian culture and governance.

Qurban Bayram (Tentative Date)

Qurban Bayram, with a tentative date, is a significant Muslim holiday in Ukraine. It involves the sacrifice of livestock and the distribution of meat to the needy. This holiday reflects cultural diversity and religious tolerance, fostering connections among Ukraine's Muslim community and the broader society.

Navy Day

Navy Day, celebrated on the last Sunday of July, honors Ukraine's naval forces. Festivities include parades, exhibitions, and naval demonstrations. It emphasizes Ukraine's maritime heritage and the importance of its navy, contributing to the country's defense and cultural identity.

Kupala Night

Kupala Night, celebrated on July 6th, is a traditional summer solstice festival. Ukrainians engage in rituals like jumping over bonfires, searching for the mythical "fern flower," and singing folk songs. It reflects Ukraine's rich folklore and connection to nature, celebrating the country's cultural roots and traditions.

Family Day

Family Day, observed on the fourth Sunday of July, highlights the importance of family bonds and relationships. Ukrainians spend quality time with their families, engage in activities, and express love and appreciation. It strengthens family ties and promotes the value of close-knit families in Ukrainian culture.

Baptism of Kyivan Rus

Baptism of Kyivan Rus, celebrated on July 28th, marks the Christianization of Ukraine in 988 AD. It's a day of church services, processions, and cultural events. This holiday holds immense historical and religious significance, symbolizing Ukraine's Christian heritage and cultural identity.

Ukrainian Statehood Day

Ukrainian Statehood Day on August 24th celebrates Ukraine's independence, gained in 1991. It includes parades, cultural performances, and patriotic events. This day represents Ukraine's sovereignty and cultural identity as an independent nation, fostering national pride and unity.

Independence Day (Suspended)

Independence Day, suspended but traditionally celebrated on August 24th, is a significant national holiday. Ukrainians celebrate their freedom with grand festivities, fireworks, and concerts. It symbolizes Ukraine's historical struggle for independence and its cultural significance as a sovereign nation.

Day of Defenders and Defenders of Ukraine (Suspended)

Day of Defenders, suspended but celebrated on October 14th, honors those who defend Ukraine's sovereignty. It includes military parades and ceremonies. This day reinforces the importance of national defense and cultural pride in those who protect the country.

Day of Liberation of Ukraine from Fascist Invaders

Liberation Day, celebrated on October 28th, commemorates Ukraine's liberation from Nazi occupation in 1944. Ukrainians honor veterans and victims of World War II with ceremonies and events. This day reflects Ukraine's resilience and the sacrifices made during the war, shaping the country's historical and cultural memory.

Daylight Saving Time ends

Daylight Saving Time ends in October, bringing shorter daylight hours. It signals the transition to winter time, affecting daily routines. Ukrainians adjust their schedules accordingly, preparing for the colder months and the festive holiday season ahead. A practical adjustment with cultural influence on daily life.

Cultural Workers and Folk Artists Day

Cultural Workers and Folk Artists Day on November 1st recognizes the contributions of artists and cultural workers to Ukrainian heritage. It includes exhibitions, performances, and awards ceremonies. This day promotes the preservation of cultural traditions and artistic expression, enriching Ukrainian culture.

Dignity and Freedom Day

Dignity and Freedom Day on November 21st commemorates the 2004 Orange Revolution, a pivotal moment in Ukraine's history. Ukrainians gather for peaceful demonstrations and cultural events, celebrating democracy and the country's commitment to freedom and human rights. This day fosters civic engagement and cultural significance.

Army Day

Army Day, celebrated on December 6th, honors Ukraine's armed forces. It includes military parades and events showcasing the country's defense capabilities. This day underscores the importance of a strong national defense and the cultural significance of those who protect Ukraine.

St. Nicholas Day

St. Nicholas Day, celebrated on December 19th, is a cherished holiday for children. St. Nicholas brings gifts and treats to well-behaved children. Families gather for festive meals and traditions. This day holds cultural importance by emphasizing generosity, kindness, and the joy of giving within Ukrainian families.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, is a significant Christian holiday. Ukrainians attend church services and share a festive meal. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and carries deep cultural and religious significance, reinforcing Ukraine's Orthodox Christian traditions and faith.