Public Holidays Germany

Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan

Germany is a country proud of its rich history and cultural heritage. Public holidays in Germany offer a unique opportunity to experience this heritage firsthand, as they commemorate religious traditions, historical milestones, and regional customs. While there are nine nationwide holidays, each federal state may observe additional days, making it essential for travelers and residents to understand local variations.

National Public Holidays in Germany

These holidays are observed across all federal states:

  • January 1 – New Year’s Day (Neujahr)
  • April 10 – Easter Monday (Ostermontag)
  • May 1 – Labor Day (Tag der Arbeit)
  • May 18 – Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt)
  • May 29 – Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag)
  • October 3 – Day of German Unity (Tag der Deutschen Einheit)
  • December 25 – Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag)
  • December 26 – Boxing Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag)

Regionally Observed Holidays

Some holidays are only recognized in specific federal states:

  • January 6 – Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) – celebrated in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and Saxony-Anhalt
  • March 8 – International Women’s Day (Frauentag) – public holiday in Berlin
  • June 8 – Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) – observed in Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, and others
  • August 15 – Assumption of Mary (Mariä Himmelfahrt) – celebrated in parts of Bavaria and Saarland
  • October 31 – Reformation Day – observed in Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Saxony, and others
  • November 1 – All Saints’ Day – celebrated in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Saarland
  • November 22 – Day of Prayer and Repentance (Buß- und Bettag) – public holiday in Saxony

Local tip: If you’re visiting Munich during Corpus Christi, expect processions through the city center with traditional Bavarian attire. Shops may close early, so plan ahead.

Religious Holidays and Traditions

Germany is predominantly Christian, and many holidays reflect this heritage. Easter and Christmas are widely celebrated, with church services, family gatherings, and seasonal markets.

  • Good Friday (Karfreitag) and Easter Sunday (Ostersonntag) are solemn days, especially in Bavaria, where many towns host Passion plays.
  • Christmas markets begin in late November, with Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne offering some of the most iconic experiences.

Local tip: Visit the Striezelmarkt in Dresden, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, for handcrafted ornaments and traditional stollen cake.

Cultural Holidays and Festivals

While not official public holidays, these events are deeply embedded in German culture:

  • Karneval (February 8–13) – celebrated in Cologne, Mainz, and Düsseldorf with parades and costumes
  • Maifest (May 1) – marks the arrival of spring with maypole dances, especially in Bavaria
  • Vatertag (Father’s Day) – May 9, often celebrated with hiking and beer wagons
  • Muttertag (Mother’s Day) – May 12
  • Oktoberfest (September 21–October 6) – world-famous beer festival in Munich
  • Martinstag (St. Martin’s Day) – November 11, celebrated with lantern parades in Rhineland towns

Local tip: During Karneval, public transport in Cologne runs extended hours, but accommodations fill quickly. Book early if you plan to attend.

Holiday Impact on Daily Life

On public holidays, most businesses, banks, and government offices are closed, similar to Sundays. Public transport may operate on a reduced schedule. Employees typically receive paid leave. However, some exceptions apply:

  • In Berlin, certain shops may remain open on Sundays and holidays.
  • Bavaria has the highest number of public holidays (13), while Berlin has fewer (10).

Local tip: If traveling on a holiday, check regional transport websites for schedule changes. Museums and attractions may remain open, especially in tourist hubs like Berlin and Hamburg.

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