Complete Overview of Public Holidays in Germany

Discover the complete list of public holidays in Germany, including national observances and regional holidays by federal state.

Germany’s holiday calendar blends federal observances with local traditions. While some holidays are recognized nationwide, others vary by Bundesland (federal state), reflecting the country’s diverse historical and religious landscape. Understanding which holidays apply in each state is essential for businesses, travelers, and residents planning schedules throughout the year.

Public holidays such as New Year’s Day, Labour Day, German Unity Day, and Christmas Day are celebrated across all 16 federal states. These dates often come with closures in government offices, schools, and many businesses, especially in the public sector. Other holidays—like Epiphany, Corpus Christi, and Reformation Day—are honored only in specific regions due to local traditions or religious demographics.

The holiday schedule in Germany also aligns closely with the Christian liturgical calendar, which means dates like Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Pentecost vary each year. This dynamic structure adds cultural depth to the calendar but also requires yearly updates for accurate planning.

Nationwide Public Holidays in Germany

The following holidays are recognized across all of Germany, regardless of the state:

• New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) — January 1
• Good Friday (Karfreitag) — Friday before Easter
• Easter Monday (Ostermontag) — Monday after Easter
• Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) — May 1
• Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) — 39 days after Easter
• Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) — 50 days after Easter
• German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) — October 3
• Christmas Day (Weihnachtstag) — December 25
• Second Christmas Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) — December 26

These holidays often bring a halt to major services, including public transport in some areas, and are widely observed with religious ceremonies, public events, or family gatherings.

Holidays Observed by Specific Federal States

Certain public holidays in Germany are limited to individual states, often rooted in religious or historical significance:

• Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) — January 6 Observed in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and Saxony-Anhalt.

• Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) — 60 days after Easter Observed in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saarland.

• Assumption Day (Mariä Himmelfahrt) — August 15 Observed in Saarland and parts of Bavaria.

• Reformation Day (Reformationstag) — October 31 Recognized in Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg, and Lower Saxony.

• All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen) — November 1 Observed in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saarland.

• Repentance Day (Buß- und Bettag) — Wednesday before November 23 Saxony is the only state where this is a statutory public holiday.

These holidays offer valuable cultural insight into regional identity and local customs, often involving religious observances or community festivals.

Christian Holidays with Variable Dates

Germany’s strong Christian heritage means several key holidays follow the ecclesiastical calendar:

• Good Friday (Karfreitag) — Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus; marked by quiet reflection and church services.
• Easter Sunday (Ostersonntag) — Widely celebrated, although not a statutory public holiday.
• Easter Monday (Ostermontag) — A nationwide holiday celebrated with family meals and spring events.
• Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) — Celebrated 39 days after Easter; also considered Father's Day in Germany.
• Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) — Occurs 50 days after Easter, concluding the Pentecost weekend.
• Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) — In Catholic states, processions and church ceremonies are common.

These holidays change yearly based on the lunar calendar, and their moving nature adds complexity to scheduling and business planning.

Cultural and National Observances

German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) on October 3 marks the anniversary of Germany’s reunification in 1990. This is a major national celebration with political speeches, concerts, and public events, especially in Berlin.

Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) on May 1 is associated with workers' rights and may include parades, political rallies, or festivals depending on the city. While widely celebrated, some events can cause local disruptions in transportation or road access.

Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day represent a key holiday season in Germany. Businesses typically close early on December 24, and most public services remain shut until December 27.

Summary Table of Major Public Holidays

Holiday	Date	Nationwide
New Year’s Day	January 1	Yes
Good Friday	Friday before Easter	Yes
Easter Monday	Monday after Easter	Yes
Labour Day	May 1	Yes
Ascension Day	39 days after Easter	Yes
Whit Monday	50 days after Easter	Yes
German Unity Day	October 3	Yes
Christmas Day	December 25	Yes
Second Christmas Day	December 26	Yes

Planning Around Public Holidays

Efficient scheduling requires awareness of both fixed and movable holidays. National dates affect the entire country, while regional observances vary. Businesses operating across state lines should consult official calendars to avoid disruptions. Travelers are advised to plan around closures, especially during Easter and Christmas seasons.

Federal holidays usually come with wide closures, while regional holidays may affect only schools or public offices in specific areas. It’s also important to check whether a holiday falls on a weekend, as Germany does not generally substitute holidays falling on Sundays with weekdays.

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Verified Sources for Accurate Holiday Dates

For the most reliable and up-to-date holiday information, refer to the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community and the official Bund.de Portal for German Government Services. These platforms publish annual calendars and state-specific observances.

Additional breakdowns by region are also provided by local government websites, such as bayern.de for Bavaria and nrw.de for North Rhine-Westphalia.

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Holiday Culture and Community Impact

German holidays not only mark time off but also foster cultural identity and social cohesion. From small-town church processions to large-scale unity events, these dates are interwoven into the national rhythm. Regional observances reinforce state pride, while nationwide holidays bind citizens together through shared values.

Observing these holidays helps build awareness of Germany’s cultural diversity and federal structure. Businesses that align services with local calendars enhance efficiency and community integration. Likewise, residents and tourists can make the most of their time by syncing with these seasonal shifts.

Public holidays in Germany offer far more than administrative closure—they serve as windows into a rich historical and cultural tapestry that spans centuries.

Here are FAQs about the Complete Overview of Public Holidays in Germany, covering how holidays are celebrated, how they vary by region, and their impact on work, travel, and culture.

1. How are public holidays determined in Germany, and why do they vary by state?

Germany’s public holiday system is shaped by its federal structure, meaning that while certain holidays are recognized nationally, many are set individually by each of the 16 federal states (Bundesländer). This leads to significant regional variation in holiday observances.

At the national level, there are 9 public holidays that are generally observed across the country, including:

• New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag)
• Good Friday (Karfreitag)
• Easter Monday (Ostermontag)
• Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit)
• Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt)
• Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag)
• German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit)
• Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag)
• Boxing Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag)

Beyond these, each state may recognize additional holidays based on religious traditions, local history, or cultural significance. For example:

• Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) is a holiday in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, but not in Berlin.
• Reformation Day (Reformationstag) is a holiday in Protestant-majority states like Saxony and Brandenburg, while All Saints' Day (Allerheiligen) is celebrated in Catholic-majority regions like Bavaria and Saarland.

This system ensures that the diverse religious and cultural identities of the German people are honored while also maintaining consistency in national observances.

2. What are the major public holidays in Germany and how are they typically celebrated?

Germany’s public holidays often reflect Christian traditions, national milestones, and seasonal celebrations. Here are some of the most significant ones and how they’re observed:

• New Year’s Day (January 1) – Marked by fireworks, family brunches, and widespread closure of businesses and shops.

• Good Friday (March/April) – A solemn Christian holiday observed with quiet reflection, no public entertainment, and many restrictions on dancing or loud music.

• Easter Sunday & Monday (March/April) – Celebrated with church services, Easter egg hunts for children, and family meals. While Easter Sunday is not an official public holiday in all states, Easter Monday is.

• Labour Day (May 1) – A national holiday celebrating workers' rights. Known for demonstrations, parades, and political speeches, especially in major cities.

• Ascension Day (May/June) – Falls 40 days after Easter. Traditionally a Christian holiday, it’s also celebrated as Father’s Day in Germany, often with groups of men taking long walks with wagons of beer.

• Whit Monday (May/June) – The day after Pentecost Sunday. Often associated with religious services and outdoor events in some regions.

• German Unity Day (October 3) – Celebrates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. It’s the only official national holiday mandated by federal law. Events include concerts, exhibitions, and political speeches.

• Christmas (December 25 & 26) – One of the most important holidays. Traditions include Advent calendars, festive decorations, Christmas markets, church services, and family meals.

Each of these holidays carries deep cultural, historical, or religious meaning, and is often accompanied by regional foods, traditions, and public events.

3. Why do some German states have more public holidays than others?

The number of public holidays in Germany differs widely by state, ranging from 9 to 14 days per year, depending on the local recognition of religious and cultural observances.

This variation is primarily due to:

• Religious demographics: Southern states like Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg have strong Catholic traditions and therefore celebrate holidays such as Corpus Christi and All Saints’ Day, which are not observed in more Protestant or secular states like Berlin or Hamburg.

• Local history and traditions: Certain holidays are specific to regions. For example:

  • Augsburg Peace Festival (August 8) is only celebrated in the city of Augsburg, making it the city with the most public holidays in Germany.
  • Reformation Day (October 31) is a holiday in Protestant-majority areas, commemorating Martin Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517.

• Political decisions: Some holidays have been adopted in response to public sentiment or government initiatives. For example, Reformation Day was temporarily declared a national holiday in 2017 to commemorate 500 years of the Reformation.

Because of these differences, people living in Bavaria may enjoy up to 14 public holidays, while those in Berlin might only get 9 or 10, making it important to check the local calendar based on your state of residence or travel.

4. How do public holidays affect business hours, travel, and daily life in Germany?

Public holidays in Germany have a significant impact on daily routines, particularly in terms of business operations, travel, and public services.

• Shop closures: On most public holidays, retail stores, supermarkets, banks, and government offices are closed, with the exception of some shops at train stations, airports, and petrol stations. Planning ahead is essential for groceries or travel needs.

• Public transport: Trains, buses, and subways usually run on Sunday or holiday schedules, meaning reduced frequency. Timetables are posted well in advance, but travelers should always double-check schedules, especially on holidays like Christmas or Easter.

• Healthcare and emergency services: Hospitals and emergency services operate normally, but doctors’ offices, dentists, and pharmacies may close. Emergency pharmacies rotate shifts and are listed online and at pharmacies.

• Tourism and attractions: Major tourist destinations may remain open, but smaller museums or local attractions might close or limit their hours. Christmas markets, for example, are a key attraction but may not operate on the public holidays themselves.

• Cultural impact: Many public holidays, especially religious ones like Good Friday, come with restrictions on loud music, dancing, and certain forms of entertainment. This is enforced by quiet laws (Ruhegebote).

These holiday-related changes underscore the importance of planning ahead, especially if you’re a tourist, expat, or doing business in Germany.

5. How do Germany’s public holidays reflect its cultural and religious diversity today?

Germany’s public holidays are deeply rooted in its Christian heritage, with a clear distinction between Catholic and Protestant traditions, but modern Germany is becoming increasingly multicultural and secular, leading to evolving attitudes toward public holidays.

• Christian foundations: Many public holidays like Easter, Ascension Day, and Christmas are Christian in origin, and the calendar still heavily reflects these religious roots.

• Regional balance: The inclusion of both Catholic and Protestant holidays at the state level reflects historical efforts to maintain religious coexistence, particularly after the Reformation and the Thirty Years' War.

• Modern secular holidays: Labour Day and German Unity Day are more secular and civic-oriented, appealing to broader segments of the population.

• Cultural integration: As Germany becomes more diverse, with growing Muslim, Jewish, and non-religious communities, there have been public discussions around recognizing new holidays such as Eid or Diwali, or making existing school holidays more inclusive.

• Workplace flexibility: Some employers allow floating holidays, giving employees the flexibility to celebrate religious or cultural holidays not officially recognized by the state.

In conclusion, while the current public holiday calendar still reflects a predominantly Christian and historical narrative, Germany’s approach continues to adapt and modernize in response to its evolving cultural landscape.

Public Holidays in Germany by Month

January

• New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) — January 1 (nationwide)
• Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) — January 6 (Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Saxony-Anhalt only)

March / April (variable dates)

• Good Friday (Karfreitag) — Friday before Easter Sunday (nationwide)
• Easter Sunday (Ostersonntag) — Easter Sunday (not an official public holiday but widely celebrated)
• Easter Monday (Ostermontag) — Monday after Easter Sunday (nationwide)

May

• Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) — May 1 (nationwide)
• Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) — 39 days after Easter Sunday (Thursday, nationwide)
• Whit Monday / Pentecost Monday (Pfingstmontag) — 50 days after Easter Sunday (Monday, nationwide)
• Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) — 60 days after Easter Sunday (Thursday, observed in some states)

August

• Assumption Day (Mariä Himmelfahrt) — August 15 (Bavaria (some areas), Saarland only)

October

• German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) — October 3 (nationwide)

November

• Reformation Day (Reformationstag) — October 31 (Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg, Lower Saxony)
• All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen) — November 1 (Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland)
• Repentance Day (Buß- und Bettag) — Wednesday before November 23 (Saxony only)

December

• Christmas Day (Weihnachtstag) — December 25 (nationwide)
• Second Christmas Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag / Stephanstag) — December 26 (nationwide)

Summary of Major Nationwide Holidays:

Holiday	Date	Notes
New Year’s Day	January 1	Nationwide
Good Friday	Friday before Easter	Nationwide
Easter Monday	Monday after Easter	Nationwide
Labour Day	May 1	Nationwide
Ascension Day	39 days after Easter	Nationwide
Whit Monday	50 days after Easter	Nationwide
German Unity Day	October 3	Nationwide
Christmas Day	December 25	Nationwide
Second Christmas Day	December 26	Nationwide

Notes:

• Germany has many holidays that are only observed in certain states.
• Some holidays follow the Christian liturgical calendar, so their dates vary each year.
• If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, it is not usually observed on a Monday.
• Regional holidays like Reformation Day or All Saints’ Day are significant locally.

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