Greece is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions. In 2025, the Greek people will celebrate 12 public holidays, each with its unique customs and significance.
From the joyous revelry of New Year’s Day to the solemn observances of Orthodox Good Friday, these holidays offer a glimpse into the soul of the nation. Join us as we explore the fascinating traditions surrounding Greek public holidays in 2025.
Discover ancient rituals, vibrant festivities, and the deep meaning behind each celebration. Whether you’re a traveler seeking cultural immersion or simply curious about Greek heritage, this blog will guide you to the heart of Greece’s cherished holidays.
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Public Holidays In Greece In 2025
In 2025, there will be 12 public holidays celebrated in Greece. All of these holidays are on weekdays. Below is the list of the public holidays in Greece in 2025.
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day is a joyous occasion celebrated in Greece, marking the beginning of a new year. It’s a time for families and friends to gather, exchange well-wishes, and celebrate the fresh start that the new year brings. Many Greeks attend church services on this day, seeking blessings for the year ahead. Traditions include decorating homes with special decorations, such as the “kalikantzaroi” (carved figures representing evil spirits) to ward off bad luck, and serving traditional dishes like “vasilopita” (a cake with a hidden coin inside, believed to bring good fortune to the person who finds it).
Epiphany
Epiphany, also known as the Feast of the Theophany, is a significant religious holiday in Greece. It celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan by John the Baptist. On this day, many Greek Orthodox churches perform a ritual known as the “Blessing of the Waters,” where a cross is thrown into a body of water, and young men dive in to retrieve it, symbolizing the purification of the waters. This tradition is particularly prominent in coastal regions and islands, where the cross is thrown into the sea.
Clean Monday
Clean Monday marks the beginning of the Great Lent, a period of fasting and spiritual preparation leading up to Orthodox Easter. It’s a day of cleansing, both physically and spiritually. Many Greeks observe a strict vegan diet on this day, abstaining from meat, dairy, and other animal products. Families gather for outdoor picnics, often flying kites and enjoying traditional meatless dishes like “Lagana” (a type of flatbread). Clean Monday is also a time for spring cleaning and letting go of bad habits or negative influences.
Greek Independence Day
Greek Independence Day commemorates the start of the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. It’s a day of great national pride and celebration, with parades, traditional dances, and festivities taking place throughout the country. Schools and public institutions organize events to honor the heroes and sacrifices made during the struggle for independence. Greeks display the national flag, and many attend church services or visit historical sites and monuments related to the Revolutionary War.
Orthodox Good Friday
Orthodox Good Friday is one of the most solemn days in the Greek Orthodox calendar, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It’s a day of mourning and reflection, with many Greeks attending church services and participating in the procession of the Epitaphios (a symbolic bier representing the tomb of Christ). In some regions, there are reenactments of the Passion and the lamentations of the Virgin Mary. Good Friday is a day of fasting, and many Greeks abstain from work and leisure activities as a sign of respect.
Orthodox Easter Monday
Orthodox Easter Monday, also known as “Bright Monday,” is a day of celebration and joy following the solemn observances of Holy Week and Easter Sunday. It marks the end of the 40-day Lenten period and is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and exchanging Easter greetings. Many Greeks participate in traditional Easter games and activities, such as the “tsougrisma” (egg-cracking game) and dancing. It’s a day of renewal and hope, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ and the triumph of life over death.
Labour Day
Labour Day is a national holiday in Greece, celebrating the achievements and rights of workers. It’s a day of solidarity and recognition for the labor movement’s contributions to society. Many Greeks participated in rallies, marches, and events organized by trade unions and workers’ associations, advocating for better working conditions and workers’ rights. Additionally, Labour Day is often a time for outdoor activities, picnics, and gatherings with family and friends.
Whit Monday
Whit Monday, also known as Pentecost Monday, is a religious holiday in Greece that falls on the Monday following Pentecost Sunday. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, as described in the Christian New Testament. Many Greeks attend church services and celebrate with traditional foods and festivities. In some regions, customs include decorating houses with green branches and leaves to symbolize the renewal of life and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Dormition of the Holy Virgin
The Dormition of the Holy Virgin, also known as the Assumption, is a significant religious holiday in Greece. It celebrates the Virgin Mary’s transition from earthly life to eternal life. It’s a day of great reverence and devotion, with many Greeks attending church services and participating in processions and celebrations honoring the Virgin Mary. In some regions, there are traditional festivals and cultural events, such as the famous “Smyrna” festival in the Cycladic Islands, featuring music, dance, and traditional dishes.
The Ochi Day
Ochi Day (meaning “No Day”) commemorates the day in 1940 when Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas rejected the Italian request to allow Axis forces to enter and occupy strategic locations in Greece. This courageous act of defiance marked the beginning of Greece’s involvement in World War II and is celebrated as a symbol of the nation’s resistance against fascism and oppression. Parades, speeches, and cultural events are held throughout the country to honor the sacrifices made during the war.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is a joyous and highly celebrated holiday in Greece, with religious and cultural significance. Greeks attend church services, participate in festive gatherings with family and friends, and engage in various traditions. The Christmas Eve meal, known as the “Christopsomo” (Christ’s bread), is essential, featuring dishes like roasted lamb or pork and special Christmas bread. Christmas decorations, such as the “karavaki” (a small decorated boat symbolizing safe travels), decorate homes, and children eagerly await the arrival of St. Basil (Santa Claus) with gifts.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Epiphany | Jan 06, 2025 | Monday |
| Clean Monday | Mar 03, 2025 | Monday |
| Greek Independence Day | Mar 25, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Orthodox Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Whit Monday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| Dormition of the Holy Virgin | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| The Ochi Day | Oct 28, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| 2nd Day of Christmas | Dec 26, 2025 | Friday |
This is the complete list of the public holidays in Greece in 2025. Below are the traditions, customs, and significance of each public holiday.