Public Holidays in Puerto Rico In 2025 offer a unique blend of cultural, historical, and religious observances that reflect the island’s rich heritage. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico celebrates both American federal holidays and its distinctive commemorations. These holidays provide insight into Puerto Rico’s complex history, vibrant traditions, and ongoing relationship with the United States.
From the joyous festivities of Three Kings Day to the solemn reflection of Emancipation Day, each holiday tells a story of Puerto Rico’s past and present. This guide explores the significance of these special days, offering a glimpse into the heart of Puerto Rican culture and identity in 2025.
Public Holidays in Puerto Rico in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Puerto Rico in 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Epiphany | Jan 06, 2025 | Monday |
| Martin Luther King Jr Day | Jan 20, 2025 | Monday |
| Presidents’ Day | Feb 17, 2025 | Monday |
| American Citizenship Day | Mar 02, 2025 | Sunday |
| Emancipation Day | Mar 22, 2025 | Saturday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Easter Sunday | Apr 20, 2025 | Sunday |
| Mothers’ Day | May 11, 2025 | Sunday |
| Memorial Day | May 26, 2025 | Monday |
| Fathers’ Day | Jun 15, 2025 | Sunday |
| Independence Day | Jul 04, 2025 | Friday |
| Constitution Day | Jul 25, 2025 | Friday |
| Labour Day | Sep 01, 2025 | Monday |
| Columbus Day | Oct 13, 2025 | Monday |
| Veterans Day | Nov 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Discovery Day | Nov 19, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Thanksgiving Day | Nov 27, 2025 | Thursday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| Know More: Public Holidays in Portugal In 2025 |
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of a new calendar year. In Puerto Rico, as in many parts of the world, it’s a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. Families and friends often gather to celebrate, sharing traditional foods like pasteles and arroz con gandules.
On New Year’s Eve, many individuals celebrate with fireworks, music, and parties until the clock strikes midnight. It’s common to make New Year’s resolutions setting personal goals for the upcoming year. The day is also a time for reflection on the past year and hope for the future.
Epiphany
Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day or Día de los Reyes Magos, is celebrated on January 6th. It is a celebration of the Magi’s journey to see the infant Jesus. In Puerto Rico, this holiday is often more important for children than Christmas. The night before, children leave grass or hay in boxes under their beds for the kings’ camels.
In return, they receive gifts. Families and communities often hold parties featuring traditional foods. Some towns organize parades with people dressed as the Three Kings. This Puerto Rican celebration is significant since it signals the conclusion of the Christmas season.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
On January 3rd, people throughout the world celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day to remember the life and work of the great civil rights hero. Although not traditionally a Puerto Rican holiday, it’s recognized due to Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory. The day celebrates Dr. King’s efforts to end racial segregation and discrimination through non-violent means.
It encourages reflection on issues of equality and civil rights. In Puerto Rico, as in the mainland U.S., the day may be marked by community service events, educational programs, and commemorative ceremonies. It’s a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice for all people.
Presidents’ Day
On the third Monday of February, Americans commemorate Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday that pays tribute to former U.S. presidents, especially Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. In Puerto Rico, as a U.S. territory, this holiday is observed, though it may carry a different cultural significance than it does on the mainland. It’s typically a day off for government employees and many businesses.
Some retailers use the holiday for sales events. While not deeply rooted in Puerto Rican culture, the day serves as a reminder of Puerto Rico’s political relationship with the United States. It provides an opportunity for reflection on American history and governance.
American Citizenship Day
American Citizenship Day, observed on March 2nd in Puerto Rico, commemorates the day in 1917 when the Jones-Shafroth Act granted U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans. This day highlights the complex relationship between Puerto Rico and the United States. It’s a time for reflection on what American citizenship means for Puerto Ricans, including rights, responsibilities, and the ongoing debate about Puerto Rico’s political status.
Educational events, discussions about civics and history, and ceremonies for new citizens may mark the day. It’s an opportunity to celebrate shared heritage while also considering Puerto Rico’s unique cultural identity within the American framework.
Emancipation Day
The end of slavery in Puerto Rico in 1873 is commemorated on Emancipation Day, which is held on March 22nd. This significant historical event marked a crucial step towards freedom and equality on the island. The day honors the struggles and resilience of enslaved people and celebrates their liberation.
It’s a time for reflection on Puerto Rico’s history, including the African heritage that has significantly shaped the island’s culture. Communities may organize educational events, cultural performances, or discussions about social justice. Emancipation Day serves as a reminder of the importance of human rights and the ongoing work toward equality for all people in Puerto Rico.
Good Friday
Christians observe the somber observance of Good Friday, the preceding Friday to Easter Sunday, to remember the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In predominantly Catholic Puerto Rico, it’s a significant religious holiday. Many people attend church services, and some communities stage dramatic reenactments of the Crucifixion. It’s common to abstain from meat on this day, with fish being a popular alternative.
Some Puerto Ricans observe a period of quiet reflection or fasting. Even though it’s a gloomy day, many also view it as a time of hope and spiritual regeneration before the joyful celebration of Easter. Lots of stores are either closing or changing their hours.
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is one of the most important Christian holidays. In Puerto Rico, it’s a day of joy and renewal after the solemnity of Holy Week. Families often attend special church services in the morning.
After church, it’s common to gather for festive meals featuring traditional foods like ham, rice with pigeon peas, and sweet bread. While not as commercialized as in some places, children might enjoy Easter egg hunts or receive baskets with treats. The day symbolizes hope, new beginnings, and the triumph of life over death in Christian theology.
Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day in Puerto Rico, celebrated on the second Sunday in May, is a heartfelt tribute to mothers and maternal figures. It’s a day when families come together to honor and appreciate the love, sacrifice, and hard work of mothers. Everyday celebrations include:
- Family gatherings.
- Special meals at home or in restaurants.
- Giving gifts or flowers to mothers.
Children often create handmade cards or crafts at school to give to their moms. The day is also marked by religious services honoring motherhood. It’s not just about biological mothers but all women who play nurturing roles in families and communities.
Memorial Day
U.S. military soldiers who died while serving are honored on Memorial Day, a federal holiday held on the last Monday in May. In Puerto Rico, as a U.S. territory, this day is recognized and observed. It’s a time to remember and pay tribute to Puerto Rican service members who have given their lives for their country.
Many people visit cemeteries to place flowers on graves of fallen soldiers. Some communities hold parades or memorial services. While also marking the unofficial start of summer, the day’s primary purpose is to reflect on the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Father’s Day
The third Sunday in June is Father’s Day, a day to commemorate fathers and anyone who plays a parent role. In Puerto Rico, as in many places, it’s a time for families to show appreciation for the love, guidance, and support that fathers provide. Everyday celebrations include family gatherings, special meals, and giving gifts to fathers.
Children might make handmade cards or crafts at school. Some families might spend the day doing activities that dad enjoys, like going to the beach or watching sports. The day recognizes not just biological fathers but all men who play important fatherly roles in families and communities.
Independence Day
Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the United States’ independence from Great Britain. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico observes this holiday. However, it carries a unique significance given Puerto Rico’s complex political relationship with the U.S. Many Puerto Ricans celebrate with barbecues, picnics, and beach outings.
Some communities organize parades or fireworks displays. The day often sparks discussions about Puerto Rico’s political status and its relationship with the mainland U.S. For many, it’s a day to reflect on concepts of freedom, democracy, and self-determination in the Puerto Rican context.
Constitution Day
Constitution Day in Puerto Rico, celebrated on July 25th, commemorates the day in 1952 when the Constitution of Puerto Rico was formally adopted. It marked a significant step in Puerto Rico’s self-governance, establishing it as a commonwealth of the United States. The day is an opportunity for Puerto Ricans to reflect on their unique political status and the principles of democracy.
Some communities organize civic events, educational programs about the Constitution, or patriotic displays. While it’s a public holiday, many businesses remain open. The day reminds people of Puerto Rico’s complex relationship with the U.S. and its ongoing journey toward self-determination.
Labor Day
The United States federal holiday known as Labor Day is celebrated annually on the first Monday of September. Its purpose is to recognize the achievements of workers and the labor movement in the country.
In Puerto Rico, as in the mainland U.S., it’s seen as the unofficial end of summer. Many Puerto Ricans use the long weekend for final beach trips or family gatherings before the school year gets into full swing. Some labor unions might organize events or demonstrations to highlight workers’ rights issues. Although not firmly ingrained in Puerto Rican history, the holiday offers an opportunity to contemplate the significance of fair labor standards and work-life balance.
Columbus Day
Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday in October to honor Christopher Columbus, who arrived in the Americas in 1492. In Puerto Rico, this day is complex due to the island’s history. While it’s a federal holiday, some view it critically due to the devastating impact of colonization on indigenous populations. Some communities have shifted focus to celebrating Indigenous heritage on this day. Others use it as an opportunity to reflect on Puerto Rico’s diverse cultural heritage, which blends indigenous Taíno, Spanish, and African influences. The day often sparks discussions about history, cultural identity, and the legacy of colonialism in Puerto Rico.
Veterans Day
Veterans Day, observed on November 11th, honors all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. In Puerto Rico, as a U.S. territory, this day holds special significance due to the high rate of military service among Puerto Ricans. Many communities organize parades, memorial services, or special events to recognize veterans.
Schools might hold educational programs about military service and sacrifice. Some businesses offer discounts or free meals to veterans. The day serves as a reminder of Puerto Rico’s contributions to U.S. military efforts and provides an opportunity to support veterans and their families. It’s a time for gratitude and reflection on service and sacrifice.
Discovery Day
Discovery Day, celebrated on November 19th, commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in Puerto Rico in 1493 during his second voyage to the Americas. The holiday is also known as “Día del Descubrimiento de Puerto Rico” or “Puerto Rico Discovery Day.” It marks a pivotal moment in the island’s history, leading to Spanish colonization and profoundly impacting its culture and demographics.
While some celebrate it as the birth of modern Puerto Rico, others view it more critically, recognizing the devastating effects on the indigenous Taíno population. The day often prompts discussions about Puerto Rico’s complex history, cultural identity, and the legacy of colonialism.
Thanksgiving Day
As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico has accepted Thanksgiving Day as a national holiday, which is observed on the fourth Thursday of November. While not deeply rooted in Puerto Rican tradition, many families embrace the holiday as an opportunity for gathering and expressing gratitude. Puerto Rican Thanksgiving meals often blend traditional American dishes like turkey with local favorites such as mofongo or arroz con gandules.
Some families attend special church services. While not as commercially significant as in the mainland U.S., some stores offer “Black Friday” sales. The day serves as a cultural bridge, combining American tradition with Puerto Rican flair.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day celebrated on December 25th, is one of the most important holidays in Puerto Rico. As a predominantly Catholic island, the religious aspect of Christmas is significant, with many attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Puerto Rican Christmas traditions blend religious observance with festive celebrations. Families gather for elaborate meals featuring traditional foods like lechón (roast pork), pasteles, and coquito (a coconut-based drink).
Music, particularly parrandas (caroling), is a big part of the celebration. Gift-giving, while present, is often less emphasized than in the mainland U.S., as children traditionally receive gifts on Three Kings Day. The holiday season extends well beyond December 25th in Puerto Rico.