Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, a vibrant U.S. territory in the Caribbean, features a rich blend of cultural holidays reflecting both its American ties and unique local traditions. The island observes many U.S. federal holidays alongside its own special celebrations, marked by family gatherings, parades, and religious observances. Below is an overview of important public holidays celebrated in Puerto Rico.

• New Year's Day
  Date: January 1
  Significance: Marks the beginning of the calendar year.
  Traditions: Family gatherings and celebrations with fireworks and parties.

• Epiphany (Three Kings' Day)
  Date: January 6
  Significance: Celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus, a deeply rooted tradition in Puerto Rico.
  Traditions: Parades and gift giving, especially for children.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  Date: Third Monday in January
  Significance: Honors civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
  Traditions: Educational events and community service activities.

• Presidents' Day
  Date: Third Monday in February
  Significance: Honors all U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
  Traditions: Many government offices and schools are closed.

• Emancipation Day
  Date: March 22
  Significance: Commemorates the abolition of slavery in Puerto Rico in 1873.
  Traditions: Cultural events reflecting freedom and human rights.

• Good Friday
  Date: Friday before Easter Sunday
  Significance: Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
  Traditions: Religious services and reflection; many businesses close or operate on reduced hours.

• Memorial Day
  Date: Last Monday in May
  Significance: Honors U.S. military personnel who died in service.
  Traditions: Ceremonies at cemeteries and memorials.

• Juneteenth National Independence Day
  Date: June 19
  Significance: Celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. Puerto Rico observes this day in solidarity.
  Traditions: Cultural festivals and education on African American history.

• Independence Day
  Date: July 4
  Significance: Celebrates the independence of the United States, also observed in Puerto Rico as a U.S. territory.
  Traditions: Fireworks, parades, and patriotic events.

• Constitution Day
  Date: July 25
  Significance: Marks the adoption of the Constitution of Puerto Rico in 1952.
  Traditions: Official ceremonies and educational activities.

• Labor Day
  Date: First Monday in September
  Significance: Honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement.
  Traditions: Parades, picnics, and public events.

• Veterans Day
  Date: November 11
  Significance: Honors military veterans of the United States.
  Traditions: Parades and ceremonies.

• Discovery Day
  Date: November 19
  Significance: Commemorates the discovery of Puerto Rico by Christopher Columbus in 1493.
  Traditions: Historical commemorations.

• Thanksgiving
  Date: Fourth Thursday in November
  Significance: Traditional American holiday giving thanks for the harvest and blessings.
  Traditions: Family meals featuring turkey and pumpkin pie.

• Christmas Day
  Date: December 25
  Significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
  Traditions: Religious ceremonies, family gatherings, gift exchanges, and festive decorations.

• Observed Holidays
  Many holidays such as New Year's Day, Emancipation Day, Independence Day, and Christmas Day are observed on alternative days if they fall on weekends, with government offices and schools closed accordingly.

Site officiel de référence

• Gobierno de Puerto Rico - Holidays