Germany

Germany : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Germany

Public holidays in Germany reflect the country's rich cultural, religious, and historical background. Many include Christian traditions, while others celebrate national unity and labor rights. The observance of these holidays often involves family gatherings, religious services, and various public and cultural events. Some holidays are nationwide, while others vary by federal state.

• New Year's Day (Neujahrstag)
  Origin and significance: Marks the beginning of the new year.
  Date and observance: January 1st. A public holiday with celebrations on New Year's Eve leading into the day. Usually a quiet day for rest after festivities.

• Good Friday (Karfreitag)
  Origin and significance: Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
  Date and observance: Friday before Easter Sunday. It is a solemn day with church services; many Germans refrain from loud music and parties.

• Easter Monday (Ostermontag)
  Origin and significance: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  Date and observance: The Monday following Easter Sunday. Family outings and traditional meals are common.

• Labor Day (Tag der Arbeit)
  Origin and significance: International Workers' Day, honoring labor rights and the working class.
  Date and observance: May 1st. Marked by demonstrations, rallies, and public festivals.

• Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt)
  Origin and significance: Christian feast commemorating the ascension of Jesus into heaven.
  Date and observance: 40 days after Easter Sunday, always on a Thursday. Often observed with church services and hikes or outdoor activities.

• Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag)
  Origin and significance: Celebrates Pentecost, the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.
  Date and observance: The Monday following Pentecost, 50 days after Easter. Public holiday with various religious and cultural events.

• German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit)
  Origin and significance: Celebrates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990.
  Date and observance: October 3rd. National holiday with official ceremonies, festivals, and concerts.

• Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag)
  Origin and significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
  Date and observance: December 25th. Family gatherings, Christmas meals, and church services.

• Second Day of Christmas (Zweiter Weihnachtstag)
  Origin and significance: The second day of Christmas celebrations, also known as St. Stephen's Day.
  Date and observance: December 26th. Continued family time and visits to relatives, often a public holiday.

Site officiel de référence

• Federal Foreign Office - Public Holidays in Germany