Brazil

Brazil : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Brazil

Brazil has a rich cultural heritage reflected in its diverse public holidays. These days are celebrated with various traditions, including religious ceremonies, patriotic events, and community gatherings that highlight the country's history and cultural unity.

• Universal Fraternization Day

  • Origin & Significance: Also known as New Year's Day, it marks the beginning of the year and promotes values of peace and fraternity worldwide.
  • Date & Observance: January 1. It is a public holiday across Brazil, with celebrations including fireworks, family gatherings, and public festivities.

• Good Friday

  • Origin & Significance: This Christian holiday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.
  • Date & Observance: The date varies each year (March or April). It is observed with church services and somber reflection; many Brazilians attend masses or participate in processions.

• Tiradentes' Day

  • Origin & Significance: Honors Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, known as Tiradentes, a national hero who fought for Brazil’s independence from Portuguese colonial rule.
  • Date & Observance: April 21. Marked by patriotic ceremonies and educational events about Brazil’s history.

• Worker's Day

  • Origin & Significance: Also known as International Workers' Day or Labour Day, it celebrates the labor movement and workers' rights.
  • Date & Observance: May 1. Parades, demonstrations, and cultural events are common observances.

• Independence Day

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates Brazil's independence from Portugal, declared by Dom Pedro I in 1822.
  • Date & Observance: September 7. Includes military parades, patriotic displays, and public speeches.

• Our Lady of Aparecida

  • Origin & Significance: Honors the Virgin Mary, patron saint of Brazil, believed to have miraculous powers.
  • Date & Observance: October 12. Religious celebrations, pilgrimages, and masses are held nationwide.

• All Souls' Day

  • Origin & Significance: A day to remember and pray for the souls of the deceased, with roots in Catholic tradition.
  • Date & Observance: November 2. People visit cemeteries to pay respects and hold family gatherings.

• Republic Proclamation Day

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the proclamation of the Brazilian Republic in 1889, ending the monarchy.
  • Date & Observance: November 15. Civic ceremonies and historical commemorations take place.

• National Day of Zumbi and Black Awareness

  • Origin & Significance: Commemorates Zumbi dos Palmares, a leader of the Quilombo dos Palmares and symbol of resistance against slavery. It also celebrates Afro-Brazilian culture and promotes racial equality.
  • Date & Observance: November 20. Cultural events, educational activities, and celebrations of Afro-Brazilian heritage.

• Christmas Day

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a key religious holiday for Christians.
  • Date & Observance: December 25. Family gatherings, festive meals, and religious services are typical.

Site officiel de référence

• Brazilian Government Portal - National Holidays