Public German Holidays in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding public holidays in Germany is essential, whether you’re a resident, planning a visit, or simply interested in German culture. These holidays offer a glimpse into the country’s rich traditions, historical milestones, and regional customs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the public holidays in Germany for 2025, delve into their historical significance, and highlight regional celebrations that make each one unique.

A comprehensive guide to Public German Holidays in 2025, including national and regional celebrations.

National and Regional Holidays in Germany

In Germany, public holidays are categorized as either national holidays (N), observed across the entire country, or regional holidays (R), celebrated in specific federal states. Let’s journey through the calendar and discover these important dates.

January 1: New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) (N)

Significance: New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It’s a time for new beginnings and resolutions.

Traditions: Germans often spend this day relaxing with family and friends after festive New Year’s Eve celebrations. Many attend classical concerts or indulge in a leisurely brunch. Moreover, it’s customary to wish everyone a “Frohes Neues Jahr” (Happy New Year).

January 6: Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) (R)

Regions: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Saxony-Anhalt

Significance: Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus, concluding the Twelve Days of Christmas.

Traditions: In these regions, children dress as the Magi and go door-to-door singing and collecting donations for charity, a custom known as Sternsinger. Furthermore, houses are often marked with chalk to bless them for the coming year. This tradition not only fosters community spirit but also supports charitable causes.

March 8: International Women’s Day (Weltfrauentag) (R)

Regions: Berlin, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

Significance: International Women’s Day is dedicated to celebrating women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality.

Traditions: People organize events, demonstrations, and discussions to raise awareness about women’s rights. Since becoming a public holiday in Berlin in 2019 and in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in 2023, it has been marked by various activities promoting women’s empowerment. Consequently, it’s a day of reflection and action toward gender equality.

April 18: Good Friday (Karfreitag) (N)

Significance: Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, making it a solemn day in the Christian calendar.

Traditions: Many Germans attend church services. Additionally, it’s known as a “silent holiday,” where dancing and loud music are traditionally avoided to maintain the day’s reverent atmosphere. Bars and clubs often close or operate under restrictions, reflecting the day’s somber mood.

April 20: Easter Sunday (Ostersonntag) (R)

Region: Brandenburg

Significance: Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Traditions: Families participate in Easter egg hunts, attend church services, and share festive meals. Moreover, the Osterfeuer (Easter fire) is a popular event where communities gather around large bonfires, symbolizing the end of winter. These fires bring people together, fostering a sense of community and renewal.

April 21: Easter Monday (Ostermontag) (N)

Significance: Easter Monday continues the celebration of Easter.

Traditions: It’s a day for family outings and leisure activities. In some regions, traditional Egg Rolling competitions take place, adding fun to the festivities. Families often enjoy picnics or hikes, taking advantage of the spring weather.

May 1: Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) (N)

Significance: Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, honors workers and their contributions.

Traditions: Political demonstrations and rallies are common. Furthermore, it’s associated with Walpurgis Night festivities on April 30th, where people celebrate the arrival of spring with music and dancing. This night is steeped in folklore, with traditions like lighting bonfires to ward off evil spirits.

May 29: Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) (N)

Significance: Ascension Day marks the ascension of Jesus into heaven, 40 days after Easter.

Traditions: Uniquely in Germany, it’s also celebrated as Father’s Day or Men’s Day (Herrentag). Men embark on hiking trips, often pulling wagons filled with beer and regional food, celebrating camaraderie and enjoying the outdoors. This tradition dates back to the 18th century and is a blend of religious observance and social festivity.

June 9: Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) (N)

Significance: Also known as Pentecost Monday, Whit Monday commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles.

Traditions: Festivals and church services are held nationwide. In some areas, the Pfingstbräuche (Pentecost customs) include processions and traditional dances, emphasizing the community spirit. Additionally, events like the Pfingstbaum (Whitsun Tree) raising bring villages together in celebration.

June 19: Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) (R)

Regions: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, parts of Saxony and Thuringia

Significance: Corpus Christi celebrates the Holy Eucharist in the Catholic tradition.

Traditions: Elaborate processions through decorated streets take place, with participants carrying the Holy Sacrament. Additionally, flower carpets and ornate altars are common sights, enhancing the visual splendor of the celebrations. These vibrant displays reflect deep religious devotion and artistic expression.

August 15: Assumption Day (Mariä Himmelfahrt) (R)

Regions: Saarland, parts of Bavaria

Significance: Assumption Day commemorates the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven.

Traditions: In rural areas, herbs are blessed in church ceremonies, known as Kräuterweihe. These herbs are believed to bring protection and blessings to homes. Moreover, local festivals often accompany the religious observances, featuring music and regional cuisine.

October 3: German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) (N)

Significance: German Unity Day celebrates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990.

Traditions: Each year, a different federal state hosts the national celebration featuring concerts, speeches, and cultural events. It’s a day of national pride and reflection on Germany’s journey to unity. Consequently, citizens participate enthusiastically in festivities throughout the country, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and peace.

October 31: Reformation Day (Reformationstag) (R)

Regions: Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia

Significance: Reformation Day marks Martin Luther’s nailing of the 95 Theses in 1517, which sparked the Protestant Reformation.

Traditions: Church services focus on themes of reformation and renewal. Besides, some regions host historical reenactments and educational events about Martin Luther’s influence, engaging communities in remembering their religious heritage. Additionally, it’s a time to discuss the impacts of the Reformation on modern society.

November 1: All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen) (R)

Regions: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland

Significance: All Saints’ Day honors all saints and martyrs, known and unknown.

Traditions: Families visit cemeteries to lay flowers and light candles on the graves of loved ones. Therefore, it’s a day of remembrance and reflection, fostering a sense of connection with ancestors. Moreover, it’s customary to attend special church services dedicated to the saints.

November 19: Repentance Day (Buß- und Bettag) (R)

Region: Saxony

Significance: Repentance Day is a Protestant day for prayer and repentance.

Traditions: Church services encourage personal reflection and reconciliation with God. Though once a national holiday, it’s now only observed in Saxony. Nevertheless, it remains significant in promoting spiritual introspection. Schools in Saxony often use this day for educational projects on moral values.

December 25: Christmas Day (1. Weihnachtstag) (N)

Significance: Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

Traditions: Germans observe Christmas with decorated trees, exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve, and attending midnight mass. Traditional foods include roast goose and stollen cake. Moreover, Christmas markets, known as Weihnachtsmärkte, are a beloved tradition, offering handcrafted goods and festive treats throughout December.

December 26: Second Christmas Day (2. Weihnachtstag) (N)

Significance: Second Christmas Day continues the Christmas festivities.

Traditions: Known elsewhere as Boxing Day, it’s a time for visiting extended family and enjoying leisurely activities. Relaxation after the busy Christmas preparations is welcomed, and families often partake in winter walks and games. Furthermore, it’s a day to extend the joy of Christmas before the year winds down.

Historical Context of German Holidays

Germany’s public holidays reflect its deep-rooted history and cultural evolution:

Religious Influence: Many holidays like Easter, Pentecost, and Christmas highlight Germany’s Christian heritage, observing significant events in the Christian calendar. These celebrations have been integral to German culture for centuries.
Reformation Day: This holiday marks a pivotal moment in religious history that began in Germany, leading to widespread religious and cultural changes across Europe. Martin Luther’s actions not only reformed the church but also influenced social and political structures.
German Unity Day: As a modern holiday, it symbolizes Germany’s reunification after decades of division during the Cold War. It emphasizes national unity and peace, reminding citizens of the importance of solidarity.

Regional Customs and Celebrations

Germany’s federal structure leads to diverse regional traditions:

Bavaria: Known for grand Corpus Christi processions and elaborate church ceremonies, Bavaria embraces its Catholic heritage with fervor. Additionally, festivals like Oktoberfest (though not a public holiday) highlight the region’s cultural richness.
Saxony: Saxony holds firmly to Repentance Day, reflecting its strong Protestant roots and commitment to spiritual reflection. The day encourages community engagement in moral and ethical discussions.
Rhineland: While not a public holiday, the Carnival season leading up to Lent is significant, featuring parades and masquerades that showcase regional humor and artistry. It’s a time when the region bursts into colorful life, attracting visitors from around the world.

Planning Around German Holidays

Understanding these holidays is crucial for various reasons:

Travelers: Many businesses and attractions may have altered hours. Therefore, planning ahead ensures a smooth visit. Participation in local festivities can greatly enrich your experience. Moreover, being aware of public transport schedules during holidays is essential.
Residents: Planning for school closures, public services, and enjoying the cultural festivities becomes easier with knowledge of these dates. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to engage with community events and deepen cultural connections.