Russia Sets New Year Holidays and Travel Trends as 2024 Approaches
The State Duma outlined the official schedule for the upcoming New Year holidays, clarifying how long Russians on a five-day work week will be able to rest. According to Ekaterina Stenyakina, a member of the State Duma Committee on Labor, Social Policy and Veterans Affairs, the holiday period stretches from December 30 to January 8. The clarification was given in an interview with lenta.ru, as families and businesses began planning around the year-end break.
Stenyakina noted that in the 2023 year-end period there were additional days off, with Saturdays and Sundays falling on December 30 and 31. She emphasized that 2024 will bring eight non-working days, a detail that many workers are factoring into their travel and vacation plans. The discussion around the holiday schedule also highlighted the way Orthodox observances intersect with the calendar. In particular, the Orthodox Christmas Eve and Christmas Day fall on weekend days, and the days off were adjusted to new dates in 2024, with arrangements made to accommodate those religious observances while preserving the extended break for workers.
Beyond the holiday timetable, attention has turned to the broader pattern of travel within Russia. Reports indicate a growing demand among residents to travel abroad, especially to Asian destinations, during December. Even with rising flight prices and higher costs for tours and accommodations, the mobility of Russian citizens remains robust, reflecting a willingness to spend on experiences despite budget pressures.
Data from the season show that nine cities become popular launch points for New Year getaways, offering more affordable options for travelers leaving from Moscow. The trend underscores a shift in how households allocate vacation budgets during the holiday period, with many seeking value destinations that still promise festive experiences and reliable transit options.
In related discussions, public health and nutrition experts have shared practical advice for those planning celebrations. Among them was a nutritionist who offered strategies to save money on a New Year’s banquet, highlighting cost-conscious choices without sacrificing enjoyment. This guidance remains relevant as households balance festive traditions with prudent spending during the holiday season.