Iran has many public holidays every year. These holidays are a big part of Iran’s Islamic religion and cultural traditions. The holidays celebrate important events, religious leaders, and historical moments that shaped Iran’s history and identity. Some holidays, like Nowruz, the Persian New Year, are joyful celebrations.
Other days, like Ashura, which honors the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, are more solemn. These holidays allow Iranians to connect with their faith, traditions, and shared history and memories. Each holiday has its own unique rituals, gatherings, and cultural activities. These rituals and expressions show Iran’s diverse beliefs and customs woven throughout society.
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Public Holidays In Iran In 2025
Iran has 27 public holidays in 2025, five of which fall on Friday and two on Thursday. Friday is Iran’s official weekend holiday, although some private and public offices are also closed on Thursday. Below is a complete list of the public holidays in Iran in 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| Birthday of Imam Ali | Jan 13, 2025 | Monday |
| Prophet’s Ascension | Jan 28, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Iranian Revolution | Feb 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Birthday of Imam Mahdi | Feb 14, 2025 | Friday |
| Oil Nationalization Day | Mar 19, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Nowruz | Mar 20, 2025 | Thursday |
| Nowruz | Mar 21, 2025 | Friday |
| Martyrdom of Imam Ali | Mar 21, 2025 | Friday |
| Nowruz | Mar 22, 2025 | Saturday |
| Nowruz | Mar 23, 2025 | Sunday |
| Islamic Republic Day | Apr 01, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Nature Day | Apr 01, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Eid al-Fitr | Apr 01, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Eid al-Fitr Holiday | Apr 02, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Martyrdom of Imam Jafar | Apr 25, 2025 | Friday |
| Death of Khomeini | Jun 04, 2025 | Wednesday |
| The 15 Khordad Uprising | Jun 05, 2025 | Thursday |
| Eid al-Adha | Jun 07, 2025 | Saturday |
| Event of Ghadir Khumm | Jun 15, 2025 | Sunday |
| Tassoua | Jul 05, 2025 | Saturday |
| Ashura | Jul 06, 2025 | Sunday |
| Arbaeen | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| Demise of Prophet Muhammad and Martyrdom of Imam Hassan | Aug 23, 2025 | Saturday |
| Martyrdom of Imam Reza | Aug 24, 2025 | Sunday |
| Martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Askari | Sep 01, 2025 | Monday |
| Birthday of Prophet Muhammad and Imam Jafar al-Sadiq | Sep 10, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Martyrdom of Fatimah | Nov 24, 2025 | Monday |
Birthday of Imam Ali
Imam Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, is revered as the first Imam in Shia Islam. Shia Muslims worldwide celebrate his birthday with great devotion. On this day, people visit mosques, recite prayers, and participate in religious gatherings.
Speeches highlight the virtues and teachings of Imam Ali, who is known for his wisdom, bravery, and justice. The celebration also includes charity events and food distribution to people in need.
Prophet’s Ascension
This holiday commemorates the night when Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended to heaven, known as the Isra and Miraj. It is a significant event in Islamic history, representing the Prophet’s spiritual journey and revelation.
On this day, Muslims attend special prayers, recite verses from the Quran, and reflect on Islam’s teachings. Sermons are delivered to emphasize the importance of faith and spiritual growth.
Iranian Revolution
The Iranian Revolution, also known as the Islamic Revolution, began in 1979 with the overthrow of the Pahlavi dynasty and the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
This event is celebrated with rallies, speeches, and parades, reminding Iranians of their struggle for independence and the principles of the revolution. It is a national pride and unity day, where people reflect on the sacrifices to achieve freedom and self-determination.
Birthday of Imam Mahdi
Imam Mahdi is the 12th and final Imam in Shia Islam. He is believed to be in occultation (hiding) and will return one day to establish justice and peace on Earth.
His birthday is celebrated with religious gatherings, prayer recitations, and food and charity distribution. Shia Muslims express their devotion and anticipation for his reappearance, which is seen as a significant event in their faith.
Oil Nationalization Day
This day commemorates Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh’s 1951 nationalization of the Iranian oil industry. It marks Iran’s struggle for sovereignty over its natural resources and rejection of foreign control.
Celebrations include speeches, parades, and cultural events highlighting the importance of national independence and the role of oil in Iran’s economic development.
Nowruz
Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is a significant cultural and religious celebration in Iran. It marks the beginning of spring and is a time for renewal, growth, and hope. Families gather for festive meals, exchange gifts, and participate in traditional rituals such as setting the Haft-Seen table. Nowruz is a time for unity, forgiveness, and appreciation of nature’s beauty, reflecting Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
Martyrdom of Imam Ali
Imam Ali’s martyrdom is mourned by Shia Muslims worldwide. He was assassinated in the mosque of Kufa in the year 661 AD. This day is marked by religious gatherings, recitation of prayers, and expressions of grief. People attend majlis (gatherings) where the life and teachings of Imam Ali are remembered, and his sacrifices for the cause of Islam are honored.
Islamic Republic Day
This day commemorates the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979, following the Iranian Revolution. Celebrations include parades, speeches, and cultural events, highlighting the principles of the Islamic Republic and its role in shaping the nation’s identity. It is a day of national unity and pride, emphasizing the values of independence, self-determination, and the rejection of foreign interference.
Nature Day
Nature Day, also known as Sizdah Bedar, marks the end of the Nowruz celebrations. It is a day dedicated to appreciating nature and the environment. Families and friends gather in parks, gardens, and natural settings for picnics, outdoor activities, and traditional games. The day promotes environmental awareness and encourages people to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is a significant Islamic festival celebrated at the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. Muslims gather for special prayers, exchange greetings and gifts, and enjoy festive meals with family and friends. The day is marked by acts of charity, forgiveness, and strengthening community bonds.
Martyrdom of Imam Jafar
Imam Jafar al-Sadiq, the sixth Imam in Shia Islam, is revered for his profound knowledge and teachings. His martyrdom is commemorated with religious gatherings, prayer recitations, and discussions on his life and contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and philosophy. This day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Imams and the importance of seeking knowledge and spiritual guidance.
Death of Khomeini
This day marks the passing of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the leader of the Iranian Revolution and the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Khomeini is revered as a prominent religious and political figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s modern history. On this day, Iranians gather to pay tribute to his legacy and remember the teachings and principles that guided the revolution. Speeches, exhibitions, and cultural events are organized to honor his memory and reaffirm the values of the Islamic Republic.
The 15 Khordad Uprising
This day commemorates the student-led protests in Tehran on June 5, 1963, against the Shah’s regime. The protesters demonstrated against the arrest of Ayatollah Khomeini and demanded democratic reforms and an end to the monarchy’s autocratic rule.
Despite facing violent suppression, the uprising ignited a broader movement, ultimately leading to the Iranian Revolution. Iranians celebrate this day as a symbol of resistance against oppression and the struggle for freedom and justice.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic festivals. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. On this day, Muslims gather for special prayers, exchange greetings, and perform animal sacrifices as a symbolic reenactment of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice. The meat is then distributed among family, friends, and people in need, promoting the values of charity and selflessness.
Event of Ghadir Khumm
This day marks when Prophet Muhammad appointed Ali ibn Abi Talib as his successor and the first Imam of Shia Islam. It is celebrated with religious gatherings, sermons, and discussions on the significance of this event and the role of the Imams in preserving the teachings of Islam. Shia Muslims reaffirm their allegiance to Imam Ali and the subsequent Imams on this day, which is considered a pivotal moment in the foundation of Shia Islam.
Tassoua
Tassoua, the ninth day of the Islamic month of Muharram, is the day before the commemoration of Ashura. It marks the arrival of Imam Hussain and his companions at Karbala, where the forces of the Umayyad caliph Yazid surrounded them. On this day, Shia Muslims gather for mourning rituals, prayer recitation, and remembrance of the sacrifices and struggles of Imam Hussain and his family.
Ashura
Ashura is one of the most significant and solemn days on the Shia Islamic calendar. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions in the battle of Karbala in 680 AD.
On this day, Shia Muslims engage in mourning rituals, such as passion plays, self-flagellation, and processions to honor the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and his family. The day serves as a reminder of the struggle against oppression and the importance of standing up for justice and truth.
Arbaeen
Arbaeen marks the 40th day after Imam Hussain’s martyrdom and is observed with large-scale pilgrimages to the holy city of Karbala in Iraq. Millions of Shia Muslims worldwide converge on this day to pay homage to Imam Hussain and his companions. The pilgrimage symbolizes the enduring spirit of sacrifice and the commitment to the values upheld by Imam Hussain, such as justice, equality, and resistance against tyranny.
Demise of Prophet Muhammad and Martyrdom of Imam Hassan
This day holds great significance in the Islamic faith as it commemorates the passing of Prophet Muhammad and the martyrdom of his grandson, Imam Hassan. Muslims gather to remember the Prophet’s life and teachings and the sacrifices made by Imam Hassan to uphold the principles of Islam. Sermons, prayers, and discussions are held to honor their legacies and reflect on the importance of following the path of righteousness and justice.
Martyrdom of Imam Reza
Imam Reza, the eighth Imam in Shia Islam, is revered for his knowledge, wisdom, and purity. His martyrdom is commemorated with solemn gatherings, prayer recitations, and discussions on his life and teachings. Shia Muslims pay tribute to Imam Reza’s steadfastness in the face of persecution and his unwavering commitment to the principles of Islam. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Imams in preserving and upholding the faith.
Martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Askari
On this day, Imam Hasan al-Askari, the eleventh Imam in Shia Islam, is remembered for his profound knowledge and unwavering faith. His martyrdom is mourned with religious gatherings, prayer recitations, and discussions on his life and contributions to Islamic jurisprudence. Shia Muslims honor his sacrifices and the persecution he endured for upholding the teachings of Islam.
Birthday of Prophet Muhammad and Imam Jafar al-Sadiq
This day celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, and Imam Jafar al-Sadiq, the sixth Imam of Shia Islam. Muslims gather for special prayers, recitation of the Quran, and discussions on the Prophet’s life and teachings. Shia Muslims also commemorate Imam Jafar al-Sadiq’s contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and his role in preserving and transmitting the knowledge of the Prophet and the Imams.
Martyrdom of Fatimah
Fatimah, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad, is revered for her holiness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Her martyrdom is commemorated with religious gatherings, prayer recitations, and discussions on her life and the sacrifices she made for the cause of Islam. Shia Muslims honor her as a symbol of strength, resilience, and devotion to the teachings of the Prophet and the principles of justice and equality.