Public and Bank Holidays in Ukraine 2024

Ukraine’s vibrant culture extends to its public holidays, offering a delightful mix of historical commemorations, religious observances, and days of national pride. Dotted throughout the year, these holidays provide a chance to delve into Ukrainian traditions, witness lively celebrations, and enjoy extended weekends perfect for exploring the country’s captivating landscapes and charming cities. In 2024, several public holidays fall on weekdays, creating opportunities for longer breaks to discover hidden gems and historical sites.

Here’s a breakdown of Ukrainian public holidays for 2024:

• January 1st – New Year’s Day (Новий Рік – Novyi Rik): Marking the start of a new year, this national holiday is a time for reflection and celebrations. Expect most businesses to be closed.

• March 8th – International Women’s Day (Міжнародний жіночий день – Mizhnarodnyi zhinochyi den): A day to honor and celebrate the achievements of women. Expect women to receive flowers and gifts.

• May 1st – Labour Day (День праці – Den pratsi): International Workers’ Day, a national holiday in Ukraine.

• May 5th (Sunday) – Easter (Великдень – Velykden): The most important religious holiday in Ukraine, Easter Sunday is a day for church services and family gatherings. The following Monday (May 6th) is also a public holiday.

• May 8th – Victory Day (День пам’яті та перемоги над нацизмом у Другій світовій війні 1939 – 1945 років – Den pamiati ta peremohy nad natsizmom u Druhii svitovii viini 1939 – 1945 rokiv): Commemorating the end of World War II in Europe.

• June 23rd (Sunday) – Pentecost (Трійця – Troitsya): A religious holiday celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. The following Monday (June 24th) is also a public holiday.

• June 28th – Constitution Day of Ukraine (День Конституції України – Den Konstitutsii Ukrainy): A national holiday marking the adoption of the Ukrainian Constitution.

• July 15th – Day of Ukrainian Statehood (День Української Державності – Den Ukrainskoi Derzhavnosti): A national holiday celebrating the establishment of the Ukrainian state.

• August 24th (Saturday) – Independence Day of Ukraine (День Незалежності України – Den Nezalezhnosti Ukrainy): The most important national holiday, celebrating Ukraine’s independence in 1991. Expect parades, festivals, and fireworks displays. The following Monday (August 26th) is also a public holiday.

• October 1st – Defenders Day (День захисників і захисниць України – Den zakhystykiv i zakhysnyts Ukrainy): Honoring those who defend Ukraine.

• December 25th – Christmas Day (Різдво Христове – Rizdvo Khrystove): A major Christian holiday for family gatherings and traditional meals. While not the most widely celebrated Christmas compared to Western Europe, Christmas Day is a public holiday.

Please Note:

• While this list covers all Ukrainian public holidays in 2024, some regions may observe additional local holidays.
• Businesses in major tourist areas may have adjusted opening hours on certain holidays. It’s always recommended to check in advance, particularly for museums and shops.

So, immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Ukraine and embark on an unforgettable journey through its historical cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry throughout 2024!