Portugal

Portugal : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Portugal

Portugal has a rich tradition of public holidays that reflect its cultural, religious, and historical heritage. These holidays are observed nationwide, with many involving family gatherings, religious ceremonies, and public celebrations. Here are some of the main public holidays celebrated in Portugal, along with their significance, dates, and customs.

• New Year's Day (January 1st)

  • Marks the beginning of the new year.
  • Celebrated with fireworks, parties on New Year's Eve, and family gatherings.
  • It is a public holiday nationwide with businesses and schools closed.

• Good Friday (Date varies - Friday before Easter Sunday)

  • Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
  • Observed with religious services, processions, and fasting.
  • A solemn day with many churches holding special masses.

• Easter Sunday (Date varies)

  • Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  • Marked by religious ceremonies and family meals.
  • Traditional sweets like folar (a type of Easter bread) are enjoyed.

• Freedom Day (April 25th)

  • Celebrates the Carnation Revolution of 1974 which ended the dictatorship.
  • Marked by political events, concerts, and public demonstrations.
  • Symbolizes democracy and freedom in Portugal.

• Labor Day (May 1st)

  • Honors the contributions of workers.
  • Often observed with rallies, parades, and public events.
  • A day off for most workers and students.

• Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities (June 10th)

  • Commemorates the death of national poet Luís de Camões.
  • Celebrates Portuguese culture and the Portuguese diaspora.
  • Ceremonies include speeches, cultural events, and patriotic displays.

• Corpus Christi (Date varies - 60 days after Easter)

  • A Catholic feast honoring the Body of Christ.
  • Includes processions decorated with flowers and religious symbols.
  • Local communities often organize public celebrations.

• Assumption Day (August 15th)

  • Honors the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven.
  • Religious services and processions are common.
  • Many people visit churches and shrines on this day.

• Republic Day (October 5th)

  • Marks the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910.
  • Celebrated with official ceremonies, parades, and political speeches.
  • A national holiday reflecting patriotism.

• All Saints' Day (November 1st)

  • Remembers all saints and deceased loved ones.
  • Many visit cemeteries to place flowers and light candles.
  • A quiet day of reflection and prayer.

• Restoration of Independence Day (December 1st)

  • Commemorates Portugal’s independence restored from Spain in 1640.
  • Observed with patriotic events and historical reenactments.
  • Symbolizes national pride.

• Immaculate Conception (December 8th)

  • Celebrates the Virgin Mary's conception without original sin.
  • Includes church services and prayers.
  • A traditional religious holiday.

• Christmas Day (December 25th)

  • Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
  • Family gatherings, festive meals, and gift exchanges.
  • Midnight mass, known as "Missa do Galo," is a key tradition.

Site officiel de référence

• Portuguese Government Official Portal - Public Holidays