Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) is a large federal state in northern Germany with a predominantly Protestant background.
In 2026, Lower Saxony officially observes 10 public holidays, consisting of nationwide German public holidays plus Reformation Day as a state-specific holiday.
This guide provides a complete and accurate list of public holidays in Lower Saxony for 2026, with explanations and practical notes for residents, employees, and visitors.
Official Public Holidays in Lower Saxony – 2026
| Date | Public Holiday | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January 1, 2026 | New Year’s Day (Neujahr) | Nationwide |
| April 3, 2026 | Good Friday (Karfreitag) | Nationwide |
| April 6, 2026 | Easter Monday (Ostermontag) | Nationwide |
| May 1, 2026 | Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) | Nationwide |
| May 14, 2026 | Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) | Nationwide |
| May 25, 2026 | Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) | Nationwide |
| October 3, 2026 | German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) | Nationwide |
| October 31, 2026 | Reformation Day (Reformationstag) | State holiday (Lower Saxony) |
| December 25, 2026 | Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag) | Nationwide |
| December 26, 2026 | Second Day of Christmas (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) | Nationwide |
Lower Saxony–Specific Public Holiday Explained
Reformation Day – October 31, 2026
Reformation Day commemorates Martin Luther’s publication of the 95 Theses in 1517.
- Official public holiday in Lower Saxony since 2018
- Reflects the state’s Protestant heritage
- Schools, public offices, and most businesses are closed
- Not a public holiday in most Catholic-majority states
Public Holidays Not Observed in Lower Saxony
Lower Saxony does not observe the following holidays:
- Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige)
- Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam)
- Assumption Day (Mariä Himmelfahrt)
- All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen)
- International Women’s Day (March 8)
- Repentance and Prayer Day (Buß- und Bettag)
These holidays apply only to specific German states and are not valid public holidays in Lower Saxony.
How Public Holidays Affect Daily Life in Lower Saxony
Businesses & Retail
- Most shops are closed on public holidays
- Exceptions include petrol stations, bakeries, pharmacies on duty, and shops at major transport hubs
Public Transport
- Operates on Sunday or holiday schedules
- Reduced frequency compared to weekdays
Schools & Childcare
- Public schools and kindergartens are closed
- School holidays may vary by district
Government Offices
- Offices such as the Bürgeramt, courts, and tax authorities are closed
Long Weekends & Bridge Days (Brückentage)
Germany does not provide substitute weekdays when a public holiday falls on a weekend.
However, Lower Saxony residents frequently use bridge days, especially around:
- Reformation Day
- Ascension Day
Taking one additional day off can often result in four consecutive days off.
Lower Saxony Compared to Other German States
- Lower Saxony: 10 public holidays
- Hamburg: 10 public holidays
- Bremen: 10 public holidays
Lower Saxony shares a similar public holiday structure with other northern German states.
Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – By State
Public holidays in Germany vary by federal state.
Lower Saxony’s calendar reflects its northern German traditions and Protestant heritage.
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Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – Complete Guide by State
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Lower Saxony has 10 official public holidays in 2026.
Yes. October 31 is an official public holiday in Lower Saxony.
Most shops are closed. Limited exceptions apply for bakeries, petrol stations, pharmacies on duty, and transport hubs.
No. Corpus Christi is not a public holiday in Lower Saxony.
There is no substitute weekday if a public holiday falls on Saturday or Sunday