Summer holidays in Russia: Where to go to take part in them
Several warm months still lie ahead — the perfect excuse to embark on an extraordinary summer journey. Russia offers ideal travel conditions during summer thanks to the weather, and the number of fascinating destinations is truly vast: Baikal, Altai, Dagestan, the Urals, and many more. What makes summer even more memorable are the vibrant festivals and regional holidays held across Russia from June to August. Today, we’re sharing some of the most exciting events worth traveling for.
Ysyakh, Yakutsk
Ysyakh is the most important celebration for the Sakha people, marking the start of a new season of fertility. Traditionally held during the summer solstice, the festival unfolds over several stages — and a new location is chosen each year.
The celebration lasts all day and into the night. It includes the blessing ritual *algys*, where prayers are recited and offerings are made to the fire spirit, as well as concerts, sporting events, and the traditional circle dance *osuokhai*. Everyone is welcome — transport from Yakutsk to the festival location is usually available.
Sabantuy, Kazan
Sabantuy is a major celebration for the peoples of Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, marking the end of spring sowing season. While festivities start in early June, the main events typically take place at the end of the month.
Kazan hosts concerts of national music and dance, souvenir markets, and street food stalls serving local dishes like *chak-chak*, *shurpa*, and *manti*. You can also take part in traditional sports and fun competitions, from horseback races to *kuresh* belt wrestling.
Welcome to Kazan
What’s special: Explore the capital of Tatarstan — a city of unique culture, rich traditions, and warm hospitality that welcomes thousands of visitors every year.
Your goal: Spend a weekend in one of Russia’s most beautiful cities.
Multi-day tour in Kazan
2- and 3-day tours available from May to September 2024.
Medieval Days, Vyborg
Every summer’s end, history buffs flock to Vyborg for the *Medieval Days* festival. Hosted at the Vyborg Castle with support from the local museum-reserve, the event is a celebration of all things chivalric and knightly.
Expect parades, combat workshops, medieval dances, knight tournaments, and performances by minstrels and folk bands. Costumes aren’t required — you can find themed attire and accessories right at the on-site market.
Navy Day, St. Petersburg
The Russian Navy Day parade in St. Petersburg is one of the city’s grandest spectacles, with a history spanning over a century. In the days leading up to the celebration, warships gather along the Neva River — from the Blagoveshchensky Bridge to Vasilyevsky Island. While most ships are stationed in nearby Kronstadt, visitors there can get up close to a submarine, which doesn’t enter Neva waters.
Cucumber Festival, Suzdal
Often referred to as the cucumber capital of Russia, Suzdal hosts this quirky summer festival every year. Held at the Museum of Wooden Architecture, the event features concerts, activities for all ages, and a market with all things cucumber — including pies, pickles, spices, and even cucumber jam!
Guests can enjoy masterclasses, try vintage rides inspired by 18th–20th century blueprints, and learn the fine art of pickling cucumbers with on-the-spot tastings.
Byg-Byg Festival, Udmurtia
This famous gastro-festival and cultural gathering of Finno-Ugric peoples has been held in Udmurtia for around 10 years. Visitors can taste authentic Udmurt cuisine: *perepechi*, *tabani*, dumplings, *shangi*, and more local delicacies rarely found elsewhere. The event also offers deep insight into the traditions and everyday life of the Udmurt people.
Chir Chayaan, Khakassia
This international eco-ethnic puppet theater festival is one of the major theatrical events in Russia and a cultural gem of the Republic of Khakassia.
Eight Adventures in Khakassia
What’s special: Discover Khakassia — a place untouched by modernity. With pristine landscapes, sacred sites, vast reserves, the mighty Yenisei River, and the staggering Sayano–Shushenskaya Dam, this land feels like stepping into myth.
Your goal: Get to know a different side of Russia.
Intensive 8-day tour of Khakassia
Tours available May–September 2024.
Held every odd-numbered year in early July, *Chir Chayaan* gathers artists from across the country and immerses audiences in a magical world, reigniting a belief in fairy tales. The festival includes ethnic and ecological programs, workshops, lectures, and masterclasses.