Republic Day in Kazakhstan

Why October 25 matters

On October 25, 1990, the Supreme Council of the Kazakh SSR adopted the Declaration on State Sovereignty. The declaration set out principles including the integrity of the territory, development of the peoples’ cultures and languages, and the strengthening of national identity. Kazakhstan’s full independence came later: on December 16, 1991, the Supreme Council adopted the Law on Independence and State Sovereignty.[2][5]

The date became a national holiday in 1995, then its holiday status changed over time. It was included among public holidays in 2001, removed from that list in 2009, and restored as a national holiday through amendments adopted in 2022.[3]

Legal status and the day off

Kazakhstan’s Holidays Law identifies Republic Day as a national holiday on October 25. It defines national holidays as commemorating events of special historical importance to the development of Kazakhstan’s statehood, and says their observance includes official events in central and local government bodies.[1]

The law treats national and state holidays as non-working days. If a regular day off coincides with a holiday, the day off moves to the next working day. The Labour Code also says employees who work on a holiday are entitled, at their request, to another rest day or increased pay; holiday work pay must be at least one and a half times the employee’s day or hourly rate.[1][4]

How the day is observed

Official observances reflect the holiday’s focus on statehood and national identity. Government reporting describes regional Republic Day programs that have included concerts, creative competitions, patriotic activities, volunteer and charity actions, and public group events. The law provides for official events at central and local government bodies, while specific programs can vary by place and year.[1][6]

Beshbarmak, kazy and baursaki are Kazakh foods.[7]

What visitors should expect

Because October 25 is a statutory non-working holiday, government services and many workplaces may not follow their usual weekday routines. The law does not establish opening hours for individual banks, shops, attractions or transport services, so check directly with the provider before making plans. If the date falls on a regular day off, the legal rule provides for a compensating day off on the next working day.[1]