Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – Complete Guide by State

Germany has a federal system, meaning public holidays vary by state.
While some holidays are observed nationwide, others apply only to specific federal states.

This complete guide lists all official public holidays in Germany for 2026, clearly showing which holidays are nationwide and which states observe each state-specific holiday.

Official Public Holidays in Germany – 2026

DatePublic HolidayState(s)
January 1, 2026New Year’s DayNationwide (All States)
January 6, 2026Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige)Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Saxony-Anhalt
March 8, 2026International Women’s DayBerlin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
April 3, 2026Good FridayNationwide (All States)
April 5, 2026Easter SundayBrandenburg
April 6, 2026Easter MondayNationwide (All States)
May 1, 2026Labour DayNationwide (All States)
May 14, 2026Ascension DayNationwide (All States)
May 24, 2026Whit Sunday (Pentecost Sunday)Brandenburg
May 25, 2026Whit MondayNationwide (All States)
June 4, 2026Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam)Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland
August 8, 2026Augsburg Peace FestivalBavaria (City of Augsburg only)
August 15, 2026Assumption DaySaarland; Bavaria (Catholic municipalities only)
September 20, 2026World Children’s DayThuringia
October 3, 2026German Unity DayNationwide (All States)
October 31, 2026Reformation DayBerlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Lower Saxony, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein, Thuringia
November 1, 2026All Saints’ DayBaden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland
November 18, 2026Repentance Day (Buß- und Bettag)Saxony
December 25, 2026Christmas DayNationwide (All States)
December 26, 20262nd Day of Christmas (St. Stephen’s Day)Nationwide (All States)

Nationwide public holidays apply to all German states. State-specific holidays may vary depending on regional regulations. For full and accurate information, always refer to the individual state pages.

How Public Holidays Work in Germany

  • Germany has 16 federal states
  • Each state decides on additional public holidays
  • There are no substitute weekdays if a holiday falls on a weekend
  • Shops, schools, and public offices usually close on public holidays

Nationwide vs State-Specific Holidays

Nationwide Public Holidays

Observed in all 16 states, including:

  • New Year’s Day
  • Good Friday
  • Easter Monday
  • Labour Day
  • Ascension Day
  • Whit Monday
  • German Unity Day
  • Christmas Day
  • Second Day of Christmas

State-Specific Public Holidays

These depend on religious, historical, or cultural traditions, such as:

  • Epiphany (southern & eastern states)
  • International Women’s Day (Berlin & MV)
  • Corpus Christi (Catholic-majority states)
  • Reformation Day (mostly northern & eastern states)
  • Buß- und Bettag (Saxony only)

Public Holidays by Federal State (Internal Links)

Use the detailed state guides below for local rules, shops, and schools:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many public holidays are there in Germany in 2026?

There are 9 nationwide public holidays, plus additional state-specific holidays depending on the federal state.

Do all German states have the same public holidays?

No. Public holidays vary by state due to Germany’s federal system.

Is there a replacement day if a holiday falls on a weekend?

No. Germany does not provide substitute weekdays for public holidays.

Which state has the most public holidays?

Bavaria usually has the highest number of public holidays.

Is Buß- und Bettag observed nationwide?

No. It is observed only in Saxony.

Final Notes

Public holidays in Germany can vary significantly depending on the state. This page serves as the central reference point for public holidays in Germany in 2026. For detailed calendars, regional differences, and local regulations, please visit the individual state pages linked above.