Public Holidays in Bremen 2026
Bremen is Germany’s smallest federal state and consists of the cities of Bremen and Bremerhaven.
In 2026, Bremen observes 10 official public holidays, including Reformation Day, which reflects the state’s Protestant tradition.
This guide provides a complete and accurate list of public holidays in Bremen for 2026, with explanations and practical notes for residents, employees, and visitors.
Official Public Holidays in Bremen – 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 (Bremen) |
| December 25, 2026 | Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag) | Nationwide |
| December 26, 2026 | Second Day of Christmas (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) | Nationwide |
Bremen-Specific Public Holiday Explained
Reformation Day – October 31, 2026
Reformation Day commemorates Martin Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517 and is an official public holiday in Bremen.
- Reflects Bremen’s Protestant heritage
- Schools, government offices, and most businesses are closed
- Observed mainly in northern and eastern German states
- Not a public holiday in most Catholic-majority states
Public Holidays Not Observed in Bremen
Bremen 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 Bremen.
How Public Holidays Affect Daily Life in Bremen
Businesses & Retail
- Most shops are closed on public holidays
- Exceptions include petrol stations, bakeries, pharmacies on duty, and shops at 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 set their own schedules
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, Bremen residents can benefit from bridge days, especially around:
- Reformation Day
- Ascension Day
Taking one additional day off may result in four consecutive days off.
Bremen Compared to Other German States
- Bremen: 10 public holidays
- Berlin: 10 public holidays
- Lower Saxony: 10 public holidays
Bremen shares a similar holiday calendar with other northern German states.
Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – By State
Public holidays in Germany vary by federal state.
Bremen’s calendar reflects its northern German and Protestant traditions.
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Public Holidays in Germany 2026 – Complete Guide by State
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many public holidays does Bremen have in 2026?
Bremen has 10 official public holidays in 2026.
Is Reformation Day a public holiday in Bremen?
Yes. October 31 is an official public holiday in Bremen.
Are shops open on public holidays in Bremen?
Most shops are closed. Limited exceptions apply to bakeries, petrol stations, pharmacies on duty, and transport hubs.
Does Bremen observe Corpus Christi?
No. Corpus Christi is not a public holiday in Bremen.
What happens if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
There is no substitute weekday if a public holiday falls on Saturday or Sunday.