Nauryz in Kazakhstan

A state holiday in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s Law on Holidays lists Nauryz Meiramy as a state holiday on March 21, 22 and 23. The law says state-holiday dates are non-working days and that a weekly day off coinciding with a holiday moves to the next working day after the holiday.[1]

The Labor Code permits work on holidays with an employee’s written consent or at the employee’s request, subject to listed exceptions. It also allows the authorized labor body to transfer days off to other working days. The exact work and rest schedule can therefore depend on the calendar and applicable work arrangements.[2]

Spring renewal and the new year

Kazakhstan’s government describes Nauryz as a traditional Kazakh holiday symbolizing the New Year according to the ancient Eastern calendar. It is also presented as a festival of spring and renewal, linking the holiday to the seasonal change.[3]

The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan lists Nauryz as an element of the country’s intangible cultural heritage, alongside traditions called Nauryznama and Korisu and the dish nauryz kozhe. The museum’s inventory identifies the heritage element across Kazakhstan and several other countries, reflecting the holiday’s broader regional setting.[4]

How people celebrate

Decorated yurts are set up in cities and villages during Nauryz, where visitors can try festive food. The government’s culture guide also describes mass games and events as part of the celebration, though activities may differ by place and year.[3]

Nauryz kozhe is the holiday’s main ritual dish in the government guide. It lists seven ingredients: water, meat, salt, fat, flour, grains such as rice, corn or wheat, and milk. The guide connects the holiday’s customs to the continuation of ancient traditions and to Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage.[3]

Planning around the holiday

The legal non-working days affect work schedules. Check directly with the particular office or provider before making plans, since opening hours for shops, banks, transport services and visitor attractions can vary.[1][2]