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Holiday Calendar

The annual schedule of public holidays, including fixed and movable dates, to help plan work and travel.

Sections

Public Holidays in Germany

Germany observes a mix of nationwide public holidays and regional holidays that vary by federal state (Bundesland). There are 9 public holidays observed nationwide, while additional holidays are celebrated in specific states.

Nationwide Public Holidays

  1. New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) – January 1

    • Significance: Marks the beginning of the new year.
    • Cultural Notes: Celebrated with fireworks, family gatherings, and resolutions.
    • Practical Considerations: Shops, businesses, and schools are closed. Public transport may run on a reduced schedule.

  2. Good Friday (Karfreitag) – Friday before Easter Sunday

    • Significance: A solemn Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus.
    • Cultural Notes: Quiet day; loud music and dancing are prohibited in many states.
    • Practical Considerations: A "silent holiday" (stiller Feiertag); closures include shops, schools, and most businesses.

  3. Easter Monday (Ostermontag) – Monday after Easter Sunday

    • Significance: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
    • Cultural Notes: Family outings and egg hunts are common.
    • Practical Considerations: Shops and schools are closed; public transport may operate on a holiday schedule.

  4. Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) – May 1

    • Significance: Celebrates workers' rights and labor movements.
    • Cultural Notes: Demonstrations and parades are common in larger cities.
    • Practical Considerations: A public holiday with closures of shops and schools.

  5. Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) – 40 days after Easter Sunday

    • Significance: Marks the ascension of Jesus into heaven.
    • Cultural Notes: Also celebrated as "Father’s Day" (Vatertag), often with outdoor activities and beer.
    • Practical Considerations: Shops and schools are closed.

  6. Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) – 50 days after Easter Sunday

    • Significance: Celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.
    • Cultural Notes: Often a day for family outings.
    • Practical Considerations: Shops and schools are closed.

  7. German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) – October 3

    • Significance: Celebrates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990.
    • Cultural Notes: Official ceremonies and cultural events are held nationwide.
    • Practical Considerations: A national holiday with closures of shops and schools.

  8. Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag) – December 25

    • Significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus.
    • Cultural Notes: A family-oriented day with festive meals and gift-giving.
    • Practical Considerations: Shops, schools, and businesses are closed.

  9. Boxing Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) – December 26

    • Significance: A continuation of Christmas celebrations.
    • Cultural Notes: Often a day for visiting extended family or relaxing.
    • Practical Considerations: Shops and schools remain closed.

Regional Public Holidays

In addition to the nationwide holidays, some federal states observe additional holidays. Here are a few examples:

  1. Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) – January 6

    • Observed in: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Saxony-Anhalt.
    • Significance: Celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus.

  2. Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) – 60 days after Easter Sunday

    • Observed in: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland.
    • Significance: A Catholic holiday with processions.

  3. Assumption of Mary (Mariä Himmelfahrt) – August 15

    • Observed in: Bavaria (in predominantly Catholic areas) and Saarland.
    • Significance: Celebrates the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven.

  4. Reformation Day (Reformationstag) – October 31

    • Observed in: Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, and others.
    • Significance: Marks Martin Luther’s Protestant Reformation.

  5. All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen) – November 1

    • Observed in: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland.
    • Significance: Honors all saints in the Christian tradition.

  6. Repentance Day (Buß- und Bettag) – Wednesday before the last Sunday of the church year (November)

    • Observed in: Saxony.
    • Significance: A Protestant day of prayer and repentance.

National Regulations

  • Closures: On public holidays, most businesses, shops, and schools are closed. Exceptions include some restaurants, gas stations, and pharmacies.
  • Silent Holidays: Certain holidays, such as Good Friday, are designated as "silent holidays," during which public dancing, loud music, and certain events are restricted by law.
  • Overtime Pay: Employees required to work on public holidays are often entitled to additional pay or compensatory time off, as per labor laws.

Cultural Significance

Public holidays in Germany are deeply rooted in Christian traditions, reflecting the country’s historical and cultural heritage. Even non-religious Germans often observe these holidays as opportunities for family gatherings, relaxation, or travel.

General Costs

  • Travel: Public holidays are peak travel times, especially around Easter, Christmas, and summer holidays. Train and flight tickets may be more expensive, and accommodations may be fully booked.
  • Shopping: Shops are closed on public holidays, so plan ahead for groceries and essentials. Gas stations and convenience stores may remain open but often charge higher prices.

Standard Procedures for Businesses and Schools

  • Businesses: Most offices and businesses are closed on public holidays. Exceptions include essential services like hospitals and emergency services.
  • Schools: Schools are closed on public holidays. In some cases, holidays may coincide with school vacations, such as Christmas or Easter breaks.
  • Public Transport: Operates on a reduced or holiday schedule. Check local timetables in advance.

Country-Specific Considerations

  1. Regional Variations: Be aware of regional holidays if traveling across states. For example, a holiday in Bavaria may not be observed in Berlin.
  2. Sunday Closures: In addition to public holidays, most shops in Germany are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping accordingly.
  3. Holiday Markets: During the Christmas season, Germany’s famous Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) are a major attraction, offering festive food, drinks, and crafts.
  4. Planning Ahead: If you’re visiting Germany during a public holiday, book accommodations and transportation well in advance, as these periods are popular for domestic and international travel.

Conclusion

Germany’s public holidays offer a mix of cultural, religious, and historical significance. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, understanding these holidays will help you plan your schedule effectively and appreciate the traditions that make these days special. Always check the specific holiday calendar for the federal state you’re in, as regional variations can impact closures and events.