Christmas 2025: why December 25 will be a working day for Ukrainians

Christmas 2025: why December 25 will be a working day for Ukrainians

In 2025, Ukraine will celebrate Christmas on December 25 according to the Gregorian calendar, resulting from the calendar reform implemented in 2023. It is important to note that December 25, 2025, falls on a Thursday. However, despite being a public holiday, this day will be a working day.

Until now, Christmas according to the Julian calendar has been celebrated on January 7, but this day is not an official day off. According to current legislation, the law on martial law does not provide for additional holidays for festive days. Thus, employees can only receive a day off at the employer's discretion. The practice of granting days off was introduced in 2023, but this does not guarantee automatic time off on December 25.

Therefore, Ukrainians planning to celebrate Christmas on December 25 should be prepared for the fact that this day will not be a day off, and most of them will continue to work according to current norms.

Discussion and impact on traditions

This situation has sparked discussions among the public and experts, as the change of Christmas celebration to December 25 according to the Gregorian calendar is an important step towards integrating Ukraine into European traditions. However, despite changes in the calendar, economic realities and current legislation remain a priority, which may affect the festive mood of Ukrainians. Celebrating Christmas on a working day may also stimulate debates about the need for reforms in labor legislation and public holidays in Ukraine.