Public Holidays in Brandenburg 2026
Brandenburg is a federal state in eastern Germany surrounding Berlin.
It observes nationwide German public holidays and one state-specific holiday.
In 2026, Brandenburg officially recognizes 11 public holidays.
This guide provides a complete and accurate list of public holidays in Brandenburg for 2026, including explanations and practical notes for residents, employees, and visitors.
Official Public Holidays in Brandenburg – 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 (Brandenburg) |
| December 25, 2026 | Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag) | Nationwide |
| December 26, 2026 | Second Day of Christmas (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) | Nationwide |
Brandenburg-Specific Public Holiday Explained
Reformation Day – October 31, 2026
Reformation Day commemorates the beginning of the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
- Official public holiday in Brandenburg
- Widely observed in eastern and northern German states
- Not a public holiday in most Catholic-majority states
Church services and cultural events are common on this day.
Public Holidays Not Observed in Brandenburg
Brandenburg 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)
These holidays apply only to specific German states and are not valid public holidays in Brandenburg.
How Public Holidays Affect Daily Life in Brandenburg
Businesses & Retail
- Most shops are closed on public holidays
- Exceptions may include petrol stations, bakeries, and shops in major transport hubs
Public Transport
- Operates on Sunday or holiday schedules
- Reduced frequency compared to weekdays
Schools & Childcare
- Public schools and kindergartens are closed
- Private institutions may follow different calendars
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 holiday falls on a weekend.
However, Brandenburg residents often use bridge days:
- Reformation Day and Ascension Day offer good opportunities
- Taking one day off can create four consecutive days off
Brandenburg Compared to Other German States
- Brandenburg: 11 public holidays
- Berlin: 10 public holidays
- Saxony: 11 public holidays
Brandenburg has one more holiday than Berlin due to Reformation Day.
Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – By State
Public holidays in Germany vary by federal state.
Brandenburg’s calendar reflects its Protestant heritage and regional traditions.
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Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – Complete Guide by State
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many public holidays does Brandenburg have in 2026?
Brandenburg has 11 official public holidays in 2026.
Is Reformation Day a public holiday in Brandenburg?
Yes. October 31 is an official public holiday in Brandenburg.
Are shops open on public holidays in Brandenburg?
Most shops are closed. Limited exceptions apply to bakeries, pharmacies on duty, and petrol stations.
Does Brandenburg observe Corpus Christi?
No. Corpus Christi is not a public holiday in Brandenburg.
What happens if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
There is no substitute weekday if a public holiday falls on Saturday or Sunday.