Public Holidays in Spain in 2025

Public Holidays in Spain in 2025

Spain is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions, and its public holidays are a reflection of this vibrant heritage. In 2025, the public holidays in Spain will offer a mix of religious, regional, and national celebrations, each with its unique significance. From the lively festivities of New Year’s Day to the solemn observances of All Saints’ Day, these holidays provide a glimpse into the diverse cultural tapestry of Spain. Whether you are planning a trip or want to understand more about Spanish culture, knowing the dates and significance of public holidays in Spain in 2025 is essential.

Public Holidays in Spain in 2025

The following is the list of Public Holidays in Spain in 2025

HolidayDateWeekday
New Year’s DayJan 01, 2025Wednesday
EpiphanyJan 06, 2025Monday
Andalusia DayFeb 28, 2025Friday
Balearic National DayMar 01, 2025Saturday
Statute of the Autonomous City of Melilla DayMar 13, 2025Thursday
St. Joseph’s DayMar 19, 2025Wednesday
Maundy ThursdayApr 17, 2025Thursday
Good FridayApr 18, 2025Friday
Easter MondayApr 21, 2025Monday
Aragonese National DayApr 23, 2025Wednesday
Castile and León DayApr 23, 2025Wednesday
Labour DayMay 01, 2025Thursday
Day of MadridMay 02, 2025Friday
Galician Literature DayMay 17, 2025Saturday
Day of the Canary IslandsMay 30, 2025Friday
Castila-La Mancha DayMay 31, 2025Saturday
Eid al-AdhaJun 07, 2025Saturday
Day of La RiojaJun 09, 2025Monday
Day of MurciaJun 09, 2025Monday
Feast of St. Anthony of PaduaJun 13, 2025Friday
John the BaptistJun 24, 2025Tuesday
Day of Cantabria InstitutionsJul 28, 2025Monday
Our Lady of AfricaAug 05, 2025Tuesday
AssumptionAug 15, 2025Friday
Ceuta DaySep 02, 2025Tuesday
Asturias DaySep 08, 2025Monday
Day of ExtremaduraSep 08, 2025Monday
Our Lady of VictorySep 08, 2025Monday
National Day of CataloniaSep 11, 2025Thursday
Nuestra Señora de laBien AparecidaSep 15, 2025Monday
Melilla DaySep 17, 2025Wednesday
Day of the Valencian CommunityOct 09, 2025Thursday
National DayOct 12, 2025Sunday
All Saints’ DayNov 01, 2025Saturday
Day of Our Lady of AlmudenaNov 09, 2025Sunday
St. Francis XavierDec 03, 2025Wednesday
Constitution DayDec 06, 2025Saturday
Immaculate ConceptionDec 08, 2025Monday
Christmas DayDec 25, 2025Thursday
St. Stephen’s DayDec 26, 2025Friday
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New Year’s Day

Spain commemorates New Year’s Day as the commencement of the Gregorian calendar. On New Year’s Eve, families and friends gather for “Nochevieja,” a celebration that involves the consumption of 12 grapes at midnight, one for each chiming of the clock, in order to bring good luck for the upcoming year. The celebration includes extravagant meals. The day itself is often spent relaxing, recovering from the previous night’s festivities, and making resolutions for the new year. It marks a fresh start, with many people enjoying time off work to reflect and plan for the future.

Epiphany

Epiphany, known as “Día de Reyes” in Spain, celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus. It is one of the most important holidays, especially for children, who receive gifts as part of the tradition. On the eve of Epiphany, cities hold parades called “Cabalgata de Reyes,” where the Wise Men distribute sweets to children. The day often includes a special meal featuring “Roscón de Reyes,” a ring-shaped cake with hidden surprises inside. Epiphany signifies the conclusion of the Christmas season, with an emphasis on themes of faith, gladness, and generosity.

Andalusia Day

Andalusia Day celebrates the autonomy of the Andalusia region in southern Spain. On this day in 1980, a referendum was held, leading to the establishment of Andalusia as an autonomous community. The day is marked by cultural events, including concerts, parades, and exhibitions showcasing Andalusian heritage, such as flamenco music and dance. Schools often organize activities where students learn about Andalusian history and symbols, like the regional flag and anthem. It’s a day of regional pride, reflecting the unique cultural identity and contributions of Andalusia to Spain.

Balearic National Day

Balearic National Day commemorates the autonomy of the Balearic Islands, granted on March 1, 1983. This holiday is celebrated across the islands, including Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. The day highlights the rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions of the Balearic Islands. Events include traditional music and dance performances, artisan fairs, and public speeches. During this period, residents are encouraged to take pride in their unique identity within Spain, which is indicative of the historical and cultural importance of the islands in the broader Spanish context.

Statute of the Autonomous City of Melilla Day

The Statute of Autonomy of Melilla, which was implemented on March 13, 1995, is commemorated on this day. The statute granted Melilla, a Spanish city on the North African coast, a degree of self-government similar to that of Spain’s autonomous communities. The holiday celebrates Melilla’s unique cultural and historical identity with its blend of Spanish and North African influences. Official ceremonies, cultural activities, and public gatherings reflect the city’s pride in its autonomy and the peaceful coexistence of its diverse population.

St. Joseph’s Day

St. Joseph’s Day, or “Día de San José,” honors Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary and the earthly father of Jesus. In Spain, it is also recognized as Father’s Day. The day is marked by religious services, where people reflect on St. Joseph’s virtues of humility, patience, and devotion. In regions like Valencia, the day coincides with the famous “Fallas” festival, featuring elaborate parades, fireworks, and the burning of large, artistic structures. St. Joseph’s Day emphasizes the importance of family, faith, and community in Spanish culture.

Maundy Thursday

Maundy Thursday, known as “Jueves Santo” in Spain, is a significant day in Holy Week, commemorating the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples. It is a solemn occasion marked by religious services and processions throughout the country, especially in Andalusia. These processions, featuring statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, are carried through the streets by participants dressed in traditional robes. Maundy Thursday is a day of reflection on the themes of sacrifice, humility, and love, setting the tone for the observance of Good Friday.

Good Friday

Good Friday, or “Viernes Santo,” is one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Spain, it is marked by deeply emotional religious processions, where participants, often in traditional penitential robes, carry ornate floats depicting scenes of the Passion of Christ. The day is observed with fasting, prayer, and reflection on the sacrifice of Jesus. Good Friday is a public holiday across Spain, with many towns and cities holding significant processions that draw large crowds, embodying the nation’s strong Catholic traditions.

Easter Monday

In certain regions of Spain, Easter Monday is a public holiday, occurring the day following Easter Sunday. It is a continuation of the Easter celebrations, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In regions like Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, it is a day for family gatherings and outdoor activities. Traditional foods, such as the “Mona de Pascua,” a special Easter cake, are enjoyed. The day is less solemn than the days preceding it, often filled with joy and the sharing of meals, emphasizing the themes of renewal, hope, and community.

Aragonese National Day

Aragonese National Day, also known as “Día de Aragón,” commemorates the feast day of St. George, the patron saint of the Aragon region. The day celebrates Aragon’s rich history, culture, and contributions to Spain. In Zaragoza, the region’s capital, events include cultural performances, concerts, and book fairs, as April 23 is also World Book Day. The holiday underscores regional pride, with many people displaying the Aragonese flag and participating in festivities that highlight the unique identity and historical significance of Aragon within Spain.

Castile and León Day

Castile and León Day, also on April 23, commemorates the historic Battle of Villalar in 1521, where the forces of the Revolt of the Comuneros were defeated. The day is a symbol of regional identity and the struggle for self-government. In the region of Castile and León, the holiday is marked by cultural events, speeches, and commemorations of the Comuneros, who are seen as early fighters for democratic rights. It’s a day of reflection on the region’s history and its role in shaping Spain’s political and cultural landscape.

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Labour Day

Labour Day, or “Día del Trabajador,” is celebrated on May 1 across Spain as a public holiday dedicated to workers’ rights. The day is marked by rallies, demonstrations, and public events organized by trade unions and workers’ associations. It’s an opportunity to highlight the importance of fair labor practices, workers’ rights, and social justice. Labour Day in Spain reflects the country’s history of labor movements and the ongoing efforts to improve working conditions. It is a day of solidarity, emphasizing the contributions of workers to society.

Day of Madrid

The Day of Madrid, or “Día de la Comunidad de Madrid,” commemorates the uprising of the people of Madrid against French occupation on May 2, 1808, during the Peninsular War. This rebellion marked the beginning of Spain’s War of Independence against Napoleon’s forces. The holiday is celebrated with various cultural and historical events, including parades, concerts, and reenactments. It is a day of regional pride, where the citizens of Madrid honor the bravery and resilience of their ancestors, reflecting on the region’s role in shaping modern Spain.

Galician Literature Day

Galician Literature Day, or “Día das Letras Galegas,” is a public holiday in the region of Galicia, dedicated to celebrating the Galician language and its literary heritage. Established in 1963, each year, the day honors a different Galician writer who has made significant contributions to Galician literature. The holiday features cultural events, readings, and educational activities, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Galician language and promoting its use. It is a day of regional pride, reflecting Galicia’s distinct cultural identity within Spain and its rich literary tradition.

Day of the Canary Islands

The Day of the Canary Islands, or “Día de Canarias,” celebrates the autonomy of the Canary Islands, granted on May 30, 1983. Cultural events that commemorate the occasion include traditional music and dance performances, sporting competitions, and local festivals. It is a day of pride for the Canary Islanders, highlighting the region’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty. The day fosters a sense of unity and identity among the residents, emphasizing their distinctiveness within Spain while also celebrating their contribution to the nation.

Castile-La Mancha Day 

Castile-La Mancha Day celebrates the establishment of the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha in 1983. Cultural events, parades, and official ceremonies throughout the region mark the holiday. It’s an opportunity for the people of Castile-La Mancha to express pride in their history, culture, and traditions. The day often includes exhibitions, concerts, and activities that highlight the region’s contributions to Spanish art, literature, and cuisine. It is a time to reflect on the region’s identity and its role in the broader context of Spain.

Eid al-Adha

The “Festival of Sacrifice,” also known as Eid al-Adha, is a significant Islamic holiday observed by Muslim communities in Spain, particularly in regions such as Melilla and Ceuta. The holiday honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as a gesture of obedience to God, prior to God providing a ram for the sacrifice. Communal prayers commemorate the day, the distribution of flesh to the impoverished, and the sacrifice of animals. It is a period of contemplation regarding faith, charity, and community, with a particular emphasis on the significance of compassion and sharing.

Day of La Rioja

The Day of La Rioja celebrates the autonomy of the La Rioja region, granted on June 9, 1982. The day is marked by cultural events, parades, and festivities that highlight the region’s rich history and traditions. La Rioja, famous for its wine production, often features wine-related activities and tastings during the celebrations. It’s a day for residents to express pride in their regional identity, culture, and contributions to Spain, particularly in the fields of agriculture, winemaking, and gastronomy.

Day of Murcia

The Day of Murcia commemorates the establishment of the autonomous community of Murcia on June 9, 1982. Parades, cultural performances, and public ceremonies comprise the holiday’s celebration. It is a time for the people of Murcia to showcase their unique traditions, cuisine, and historical heritage. The day emphasizes regional pride and unity, reflecting Murcia’s importance in Spain’s agricultural sector and its rich cultural contributions. It is also an opportunity for residents to reflect on the progress and development of the region.

Feast of St. Anthony of Padua

The Feast of St. Anthony of Padua, or “Día de San Antonio,” is a commemoration that honors the patron saint, who is celebrated for his compassion for those with low incomes and his reputation as a miracle worker. In Spain, the day is particularly celebrated in Lisbon, where St. Anthony was born, but also in various towns across the country. Religious services, processions, and local festivities mark the day. Many people seek St. Anthony’s intercession, particularly for finding lost items or seeking guidance in their lives. The day reflects the deep Catholic faith and traditions within Spanish society.

John the Baptist

The Feast of St. John the Baptist, or “Día de San Juan,” is celebrated on June 24, coinciding with the summer solstice. It is particularly significant in regions like Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands, where it is celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and parties that last through the night. The holiday marks the birth of John the Baptist, a key figure in Christianity who is believed to have baptized Jesus. The celebrations symbolize the victory of light over darkness, reflecting ancient pagan traditions combined with Christian beliefs.

Day of Cantabria Institutions

The Day of Cantabria Institutions commemorates the creation of the modern Cantabrian government in 1981. The holiday celebrates the establishment of the autonomous community and the preservation of Cantabria’s distinct cultural and historical identity. The day is marked by official ceremonies, cultural events, and local festivals, highlighting Cantabrian traditions, music, and cuisine. It is a day of regional pride, where the people of Cantabria reflect on their unique contributions to Spain and their commitment to maintaining their cultural heritage.

Our Lady of Africa

Our Lady of Africa, or “Nuestra Señora de África,” is the patron saint of Ceuta, a Spanish metropolis situated on the North African coast. The feast day on August 5 is celebrated with religious processions, masses, and community gatherings. The day honors the Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Africa, who is revered for her protective role in the city. The celebrations reflect the deep Catholic faith of the residents of Ceuta and their devotion to the Virgin Mary, reinforcing the city’s cultural and religious identity.

Assumption

An important religious celebration observed in Spain is the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, observed on August 15. It commemorates the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken up into heaven, body and soul at the end of her earthly life. Religious services, processions, and festivals across the country mark the day. In some regions, it coincides with local summer fiestas, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Assumption is one of the most important Marian feasts in the Catholic Church, reflecting Spain’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions and devotion to the Virgin Mary.

Ceuta Day

Ceuta Day celebrates the Spanish city of Ceuta, located on the North African coast. The holiday commemorates the capture of Ceuta by the Portuguese in 1415, and it later became part of Spain. The day is marked by official ceremonies, cultural events, and festivities that highlight Ceuta’s unique history, culture, and strategic significance. Ceuta Day is a time for the residents to express pride in their city’s diverse heritage and its role as a bridge between Europe and Africa, emphasizing its unique position within Spain.

Asturias Day

Asturias Day, or “Día de Asturias,” celebrates the patron saint of Asturias, the Virgin of Covadonga, and the region’s rich cultural heritage. Particularly in the town of Covadonga, a major pilgrimage site, the day is dotted with religious rituals, processions, and cultural festivities. The holiday reflects the strong regional identity and pride of the Asturian people, emphasizing their historical role in the Reconquista, as Asturias was the cradle of the Christian resistance against Moorish rule. The day is a celebration of Asturias’ traditions, history, and natural beauty.

Day of Extremadura

The Day of Extremadura celebrates the autonomy of the Extremadura region, granted on September 8, 1983. The holiday is marked by cultural events, official ceremonies, and local festivals that highlight the region’s history, traditions, and contributions to Spain. Extremadura, known for its rural landscapes and historical sites, emphasizes its cultural heritage through music, dance, and cuisine during the celebrations. It is a day of regional pride, where the people of Extremadura reflect on their identity and the region’s role in Spanish history and culture.

Our Lady of Victory

Our Lady of Victory, or “Nuestra Señora de la Victoria,” is celebrated on September 8, particularly in Malaga, where she is the patron saint. The day commemorates the victory of Christian forces over the Moors during the Reconquista, specifically the recapture of Malaga in 1487. The holiday is marked by religious services, processions, and local festivities, including a pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady of Victory. The day reflects the historical significance of the Reconquista in Spanish history and the deep Catholic faith of the people.

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National Day of Catalonia

The “Diada Nacional de Catalunya,” or National Day of Catalonia, is a symbol of Catalonia’s lost sovereignty, celebrating the collapse of Barcelona during the War of the Spanish Succession in 1714. The day is marked by demonstrations, cultural events, and public gatherings where Catalans express their regional pride and identity. It is a day of reflection on Catalonia’s history and its ongoing desire for greater autonomy within Spain. The Diada is a powerful symbol of Catalan nationalism, emphasizing the region’s distinct culture, language, and political aspirations.

Nuestra Señora de la Bien Aparecida

Nuestra Señora de la Bien Aparecida is the patron saint of Cantabria, and her feast day is celebrated on September 15. Religious services, processions, and pilgrimages to the sanctuary of La Bien Aparecida in the municipality of Ampuero mark the day. The holiday reflects the deep Catholic faith of the people of Cantabria and their devotion to the Virgin Mary under this title. It is a time for the community to come together in prayer and celebration, reinforcing the region’s religious and cultural identity.

Melilla Day

Melilla Day commemorates the capture of the city by the Spanish in 1497. The holiday is celebrated with official ceremonies, cultural events, and local festivities that highlight Melilla’s unique history, cultural diversity, and strategic significance as a Spanish enclave in North Africa. The day reflects the city’s blend of Spanish and North African influences, emphasizing its role as a meeting point between cultures. Melilla Day is a time for residents to express pride in their city’s heritage and its place within the broader Spanish nation.

Day of the Valencian Community

The “Día de la Comunidad Valenciana,” or Day of the Valencian Community, commemorates King James I’s Christian reconquest of Valencia in 1238. Parades, cultural events, and official ceremonies throughout the region mark the holiday. It is a day of regional pride, where Valencians celebrate their history, language, and traditions. The day often includes the “Mocadorà,” a tradition where marzipan fruits are given as gifts. It is a time to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of the Valencian Community and its contributions to Spain.

National Day

Christopher Columbus’s initial arrival in the Americas in 1492 is commemorated on October 12 by Spain’s National Day, or “Fiesta Nacional de España.” The King and other dignitaries attend an elaborate military parade in Madrid, and the day is also commemorated by a variety of cultural activities throughout the nation. It is a day of national pride, reflecting Spain’s historical achievements and its global influence. The holiday is also known as “Día de la Hispanidad,” celebrating the shared cultural and linguistic heritage of Spanish-speaking countries.

All Saints’ Day

All Saints’ Day, or “Día de Todos los Santos,” is a significant religious holiday in Spain, where people honor the memory of deceased loved ones. Cemeteries are visited on this day to tidy and decorate monuments with flowers, particularly chrysanthemums. Religious services are held to remember the saints and those who have passed away. It is a time of reflection on life and death and a deeply rooted tradition in Spanish culture. It reflects the country’s strong Catholic faith and the importance of family and remembrance.

Day of Our Lady of Almudena

The Day of Our Lady of Almudena, or “Día de la Almudena,” is celebrated in Madrid, where she is the patron saint. The holiday commemorates the Virgin Mary under the title of Almudena, believed to have protected the city. Religious services, processions, and celebrations in honor of the Virgin mark the day. The festivities often include a pilgrimage to the Almudena Cathedral. The day reflects Madrid’s deep Catholic faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary, as well as the city’s rich religious and cultural traditions.

St. Francis Xavier

In particular, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated on December 3, as he is the patron saint of Navarra. St. Francis Xavier was a missionary and one of the founders of the Jesuit order, known for his extensive work in Asia. The day is marked by religious services, processions, and local festivities in honor of his contributions to spreading Christianity. The holiday reflects the strong Catholic tradition in Spain and the enduring legacy of St. Francis Xavier as a symbol of missionary zeal and faith.

Constitution Day

Celebrated on December 6, Constitution Day—also known as “Día de la Constitución—marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Spanish Constitution in 1978. The holiday honors Spain’s democratic turn from the Franco dictatorship. It is distinguished by formal celebrations, educational activities, and contemplations on the significance of the Constitution in preserving the democratic principles of Spain. Emphasizing national unity, the rule of law, and the defense of individual liberties and rights, the day In modern history of Spain is a turning point.

Immaculate Conception

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, or “Día de la Inmaculada Concepción,” is a significant Catholic holiday in Spain. It honors the view held that the Virgin Mary was conceived free from original sin. Religious services, processions, and various local traditions mark the day. In Seville, for example, the day is celebrated with “El Baile de los Seises,” a traditional dance performed by choirboys. The Immaculate Conception is a key doctrine of the Catholic Church and a reflection of Spain’s deep Marian devotion and Catholic heritage.

Christmas Day

Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas Day—also known as “Navidad—is among the most significant festivals in Spain. The day consists of family get-togethers, celebratory cuisine, and gift-giving. Attaching “La Misa del Gallo,” the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, many people come to honor the religious relevance of the occasion. Traditional foods, such as “turrón” (a type of nougat) and “pavo” (turkey), are enjoyed during the festive season. Christmas in Spain reflects the country’s deep-rooted Christian traditions, family values, and a spirit of joy and generosity.

St. Stephen’s Day

St. Stephen’s Day, or “Día de San Esteban,” is celebrated in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands following Christmas Day. The holiday honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. The day is marked by family gatherings and meals, often featuring leftovers from Christmas Day, such as “canons” (cannelloni). It is a time for extended families to come together, continuing the festive spirit of Christmas. St. Stephen’s Day is a reflection of regional traditions and the importance of family in Catalan and Balearic cultures.

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