Holidays in Russia: These below are the official holidays recognized by the Russian Government. Due to that, shops, government offices and embassies will be closed. [1]

New Year and Christmas

The Russian New Year is celebrated on the First and Second of January. This event usually coincide with the celebration of Christmas. The Russian Othodox Church has January the 7th as Christmas, according to the Julian Calendar.

Day of the Defenders of the Motherland

On February 23, Russia honor those who are serving in the Armed Forces and those who have served in the past. During the era of the Soviet Union, it was marked as Red Army Day or the Day of the Soviet Army and Navy . It can be equated to Veteran's Day, celebrated in the United States.

International Women's Day

Every March 8, the United Nations declares this day to celebrate women and the accomplishments they have made to society. Other than the former Soviet republics, it is not celebrated much through out the world. On this occasion in Russia, it is ideal to present women with gifts to express appreciation for their work, love and devotion. This can be the equivalent of Mother's Day, which is more widely celebrated worldwide.

Spring and Labor

On the first two days of May, the workers of Russia are honored, along with the coming of spring. In the former Soviet Union, May 1st was May Day and was celebrated with huge parades in cities like Moscow. Though the celebrations are low key, several groups march on that day to discuss the greviences the workers have. Several Communist nations still hold this day as an official occasions with a military parade and columns of weapons and workers.

Victory Day

Eevery May 9th, Russia pauses to celebrate the victory over Nazi Germany, while remembering those who fell in order to achieve it. May 9th was chosen, since the day before in 1945, the Germans gave up to the Soviet Union and her Allies. May 9th was when the peace took effect. A military parade is usually held in Moscow to celebrate the day.

Independence Day

On [June 12]], Russia formally left the Soviet Union. The holiday was established by Boris Yeltsin, however, it was his predecesor Vladimir Putin who made it into a big celebration. Military parades could take place on this day in Moscow and other large cities.

Day of Accord and Reconciliation

Started on November 7, 1917, and it was known as the Day of the October Revolution. Though in the past, military parades were present. Today, it is used by Russia to remember their past and for Communists to march in cities to support their causes.

Constitution Day

December 12 was the day the Constitution of the Russian Federation was signed and drafted.