Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan
Belgium, located in Western Europe, observes a range of public holidays that reflect its national identity, religious traditions, and regional diversity. These holidays are legally recognized and typically grant employees a day off. In some sectors, substitutions or additional days may apply depending on collective agreements or company policies.
National Public Holidays
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Easter Sunday – late March or early April (date varies)
- Easter Monday – the day after Easter
- Labor Day – May 1
- Ascension Day – 40 days after Easter (typically in May)
- Pentecost – 50 days after Easter
- Pentecost Monday – the day after Pentecost
- National Day – July 21, commemorating the inauguration of King Leopold I in 1831
- Assumption of Mary – August 15
- All Saints’ Day – November 1
- Armistice Day – November 11, marking the end of World War I
- Christmas Day – December 25
Regional Holidays
Belgium’s federal structure includes three communities—Flemish, French, and German—each with its own official holiday:
- Flemish Community Day – July 11
- French Community Day – September 27
- German-speaking Community Day – November 15
These holidays are observed primarily by public institutions and schools within the respective communities.
Sector-Specific and Substituted Holidays
In certain industries, public holidays may be replaced by other observances. For example:
- In the steel industry, Armistice Day (November 11) is often replaced by Sint-Eloi Day on December 1.
- Companies involved in bridge and metal truss assembly may grant an additional day off during the Community Feast.
If a public holiday falls on a Sunday or a regular day of inactivity, Belgian labor law requires that it be replaced by a working day designated by the employer. This replacement day carries the same legal status as a public holiday.
Other Notable Dates
While not official public holidays, the following dates are widely recognized and may influence business hours or local customs:
- Epiphany – January 6
- Carnival Sunday – February 11
- Valentine’s Day – February 14
- Father’s Day (Antwerp) – March 19
- Daylight Saving Time Begins – March 31
- Secretary’s Day – April 18
- Mother’s Day – May 12
- Father’s Day (National) – June 9
- Mother’s Day (Antwerp) – August 15
- Winter Time Begins – October 27
- Halloween – October 31
- Sint Maarten – November 11
- Black Friday – November 29
- Sinterklaas – December 6
- New Year’s Eve – December 31
Local Tips
- In Brussels, many museums and attractions remain open on public holidays, but government offices and banks may close.
- Antwerp celebrates Mother’s Day on August 15, aligning with the Assumption of Mary, unlike the rest of Belgium which celebrates in May.
- During Carnival, towns like Binche host UNESCO-recognized festivities with traditional costumes and parades.
- On Sinterklaas, children in Flanders receive gifts and sweets, making it one of the most anticipated days of the year.