Public holiday in Kazakhstan
Nauryz in Kazakhstan
Saturday, March 21, 2026
Nationwide public holiday
Nauryz is a nationwide public holiday in Kazakhstan that marks the spring equinox and the start of the new year in the traditional Central Asian calendar. In Kazakhstan it is a major seasonal holiday associated with renewal, hospitality and community gatherings.
About Nauryz in Kazakhstan
In Kazakhstan, Nauryz is the main spring holiday and a widely recognized marker of renewal after winter. It is observed across the country as a public holiday and is strongly associated with the arrival of the new season, family visits and communal events. The holiday is especially significant because it combines older seasonal customs with modern public celebrations, making it one of the most visible annual observances in Kazakh life.
History
Nauryz has long been celebrated in the region as a seasonal festival tied to the spring equinox and the beginning of the agricultural year. In Kazakhstan, its modern public-holiday status reflects the revival of the holiday after the Soviet period, when many traditional observances were reduced or discouraged.
Traditions
Traditional observance in Kazakhstan centers on hospitality, visiting relatives and neighbors, and sharing food. A well-known holiday dish is nauryz kozhe, a festive soup prepared from several ingredients and served as a symbol of abundance and renewal. Many people also clean and prepare their homes before the holiday and exchange good wishes for the new year.
How Nauryz is celebrated in Kazakhstan
Across Kazakhstan, Nauryz is marked by public festivities, cultural performances and community events. Towns and cities commonly host concerts, folk entertainment and outdoor gatherings, and people often dress in traditional clothing for the occasion.
Interesting facts
Nauryz falls on the spring equinox, so it is linked to the same seasonal turning point in each year it is observed. In Kazakhstan, the holiday is also written in Russian-influenced usage as Nauryz or Nauryz meiramy, depending on context.
Dates in published calendars
| Year | Holiday date | Observed date | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 21 Mar 2026 | — | Nationwide |
Import sources
- Generic ICS feed
An import is not an independent verification.