worldwide public holidays news and updates of the past seven days
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Bolivia Declares 9 Departmental Bicentennial Public Holidays Agencia Boliviana de Información (La Paz) The Government of Bolivia has finally released, earlier this morning, the Supreme Decree 5328, signed by President Luis Arce, and which declares 9 departmental public holidays in 2025 to coincide with Bolivia's bicentennial. The departmental public holidays are: February 9 in commemoration of the founding of the city of Cobija (Pando), February 14 for the 200 years of Santa Cruz independence (Santa Cruz), April 1 commemorates the Battle of Tumusla (Potosí), April 22 for the revolt of the Canichana people in San Pedro de Moxos (Beni), September 29 for the founding of the city of La Plata (Chuquisaca), October 6 for the Revolution of October 6, 1810 (Oruro), November 7 for the Battle of Suipacha (Tarija), November 14 for the dismemberment of Tupac Katari (La Paz), and November 14 in commemoration of the Battle of Aroma (Cochabamba). Earlier this week, we had reported that Bolivia's Ministry of Labour was expected to declare Friday, February 14, 2025, as a one-off departmental public holiday with suspension of activities on account of the upcoming bicentennial of Santa Cruz. But until this morning, neither the Ministry of Labor nor the Departmental Legislative Assembly had official information on the aforementioned decree.
Bolivia Declares 9 Departmental Bicentennial Public Holidays Agencia Boliviana de Información (La Paz) The Government of Bolivia has finally released, earlier this morning, the Supreme Decree 5328, signed by President Luis Arce, and which declares 9 departmental public holidays in 2025 to coincide with Bolivia's bicentennial. The departmental public holidays are: February 9 in commemoration of the founding of the city of Cobija (Pando), February 14 for the 200 years of Santa Cruz independence (Santa Cruz), April 1 commemorates the Battle of Tumusla (Potosí), April 22 for the revolt of the Canichana people in San Pedro de Moxos (Beni), September 29 for the founding of the city of La Plata (Chuquisaca), October 6 for the Revolution of October 6, 1810 (Oruro), November 7 for the Battle of Suipacha (Tarija), November 14 for the dismemberment of Tupac Katari (La Paz), and November 14 in commemoration of the Battle of Aroma (Cochabamba). Earlier this week, we had reported that Bolivia's Ministry of Labour was expected to declare Friday, February 14, 2025, as a one-off departmental public holiday with suspension of activities on account of the upcoming bicentennial of Santa Cruz. But until this morning, neither the Ministry of Labor nor the Departmental Legislative Assembly had official information on the aforementioned decree.
RBI Cancels End of Ramadan Bank Holiday Reserve Bank of India (New Delhi) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed all agency banks to keep their branches dealing with government transactions open for the public on March 31, 2025, despite the day being a public holiday on account of Id-Ul-Fitr (the End of Ramadan). The aforementioned notification, which covers the 29 main Indian banks, states that "The Government of India has made a request to keep all branches of the banks dealing with Government receipts and payments open for transactions on March 31, 2025 (Monday-Public Holiday) so as to account for all the Government transactions relating to receipts and payments in the Financial Year 2024-25 itself", adding that "Agency banks are advised to keep all their branches dealing with government business open on March 31, 2025 (Monday)". Recall that April 1st is an annual nationwide bank holiday in India, and a March 31st closure of banks would have meant 4 consecutive days of nationwide bank holidays.
RBI Cancels End of Ramadan Bank Holiday Reserve Bank of India (New Delhi) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed all agency banks to keep their branches dealing with government transactions open for the public on March 31, 2025, despite the day being a public holiday on account of Id-Ul-Fitr (the End of Ramadan). The aforementioned notification, which covers the 29 main Indian banks, states that "The Government of India has made a request to keep all branches of the banks dealing with Government receipts and payments open for transactions on March 31, 2025 (Monday-Public Holiday) so as to account for all the Government transactions relating to receipts and payments in the Financial Year 2024-25 itself", adding that "Agency banks are advised to keep all their branches dealing with government business open on March 31, 2025 (Monday)". Recall that April 1st is an annual nationwide bank holiday in India, and a March 31st closure of banks would have meant 4 consecutive days of nationwide bank holidays.
Kenyan Public Holidays Amendment Bill Withdrawn The Nation (Nairobi) Kenyan Senator, Karungo wa Thang’wa, has sent a letter to the Senate Speaker, Amason Kingi, withdrawing the public holidays bill he had sponsored. As per the aforementioned letter, "I write to formally notify you of my decision to withdraw The Public Holidays Bill, which I am sponsoring, from further consideration in the Senate. I note that the Bill is scheduled for the Second Reading in today’s Order Paper. However, after careful deliberation, I have decided to prioritize other legislative proposals that I am sponsoring, which I believe are of urgent and immediate national significance". The bill would have automatically declared bridge public holidays ("Where in any year, a public holiday (a) falls on a Tuesday, then the preceding day, shall be a public holiday or (b) falls on a Thursday, the succeeding day shall also be a public holiday"). Currently, the last amendments to Kenya's public holidays were last year, when President William Ruto assented to the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments Bill 2024) which amended sixteen Acts of Parliament, notably the Public Holidays Act (Cap 110) in which the annual October 10 Utamaduni Day public holiday is renamed as the Mazingira Day public holiday ("The Bill amends the Public Holidays Act (Cap. 110) to substitute Utamaduni Day with Mazingira Day as a public holiday to be observed on 10th October every year. This seeks to complement government efforts towards environmental protection and conservation.").
Kenyan Public Holidays Amendment Bill Withdrawn The Nation (Nairobi) Kenyan Senator, Karungo wa Thang’wa, has sent a letter to the Senate Speaker, Amason Kingi, withdrawing the public holidays bill he had sponsored. As per the aforementioned letter, "I write to formally notify you of my decision to withdraw The Public Holidays Bill, which I am sponsoring, from further consideration in the Senate. I note that the Bill is scheduled for the Second Reading in today’s Order Paper. However, after careful deliberation, I have decided to prioritize other legislative proposals that I am sponsoring, which I believe are of urgent and immediate national significance". The bill would have automatically declared bridge public holidays ("Where in any year, a public holiday (a) falls on a Tuesday, then the preceding day, shall be a public holiday or (b) falls on a Thursday, the succeeding day shall also be a public holiday"). Currently, the last amendments to Kenya's public holidays were last year, when President William Ruto assented to the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments Bill 2024) which amended sixteen Acts of Parliament, notably the Public Holidays Act (Cap 110) in which the annual October 10 Utamaduni Day public holiday is renamed as the Mazingira Day public holiday ("The Bill amends the Public Holidays Act (Cap. 110) to substitute Utamaduni Day with Mazingira Day as a public holiday to be observed on 10th October every year. This seeks to complement government efforts towards environmental protection and conservation.").
Rukum Declares February 13 Maoist War Anniversary Public Holiday Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs (Kathmandu) The executive committees of Sanibheri Rural Municipality and Bafikot Rural Municipality of the Nepalese Province of Rukum, the birthplace of the CPN Maoist party that launched an armed insurgency on February 13, 1996. Initially, the Government of then Nepalese Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, had declared Monday, February 13, 2023, as a one-off public holiday, throughout Nepal, to mark the anniversary of the Maoist War, which began in 1996 and lasted for a decade, until the signing of a peace accord between the Maoist and the then Nepali Congress President, Girija Prasad Koirala, on November 22, 2006. Then, a few days later, Nepalese government spokesperson, Rekha Sharma, announced that the Nepalese cabinet had decided to add Prithvi Jayanti and the Maoist War Anniversary as annual public holidays beginning with the upcoming list of Nepalese public holidays for the Bikram Sambat year 2080 which began in mid-April 2023. But, in late 2023, the Nepalese Supreme Court annulled the declaration of the contentious February 13th public holiday. As per the Supreme Court ruling, "The peace process and transitional justice issues have not reached a conclusion, and a relevant bill is under consideration in the House. The decision to announce a public holiday without discussion in the sovereign parliament is hereby nullified through a certiorari order, as per the preamble of the Constitution".
Rukum Declares February 13 Maoist War Anniversary Public Holiday Nepalese Ministry of Home Affairs (Kathmandu) The executive committees of Sanibheri Rural Municipality and Bafikot Rural Municipality of the Nepalese Province of Rukum, the birthplace of the CPN Maoist party that launched an armed insurgency on February 13, 1996. Initially, the Government of then Nepalese Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, had declared Monday, February 13, 2023, as a one-off public holiday, throughout Nepal, to mark the anniversary of the Maoist War, which began in 1996 and lasted for a decade, until the signing of a peace accord between the Maoist and the then Nepali Congress President, Girija Prasad Koirala, on November 22, 2006. Then, a few days later, Nepalese government spokesperson, Rekha Sharma, announced that the Nepalese cabinet had decided to add Prithvi Jayanti and the Maoist War Anniversary as annual public holidays beginning with the upcoming list of Nepalese public holidays for the Bikram Sambat year 2080 which began in mid-April 2023. But, in late 2023, the Nepalese Supreme Court annulled the declaration of the contentious February 13th public holiday. As per the Supreme Court ruling, "The peace process and transitional justice issues have not reached a conclusion, and a relevant bill is under consideration in the House. The decision to announce a public holiday without discussion in the sovereign parliament is hereby nullified through a certiorari order, as per the preamble of the Constitution".
Ukraine Declares Annual February 24 National Day of Prayer Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (Kiev) The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, has approved the Resolution No. 12412 on the establishment of a National Day of Prayer in Ukraine (Проект Постанови про встановлення Національного дня молитви), which will be celebrated annually on February 24, the anniversary of Russiaʼs full-scale invasion of Ukraine. At the end of last year, a similar working day holiday was officialized when Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, signed into law the Decree No.883/2024 (Про День міжнаціональної злагоди і культурного розмаїття), establishing May 21 as the annual Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity.
Ukraine Declares Annual February 24 National Day of Prayer Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (Kiev) The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, has approved the Resolution No. 12412 on the establishment of a National Day of Prayer in Ukraine (Проект Постанови про встановлення Національного дня молитви), which will be celebrated annually on February 24, the anniversary of Russiaʼs full-scale invasion of Ukraine. At the end of last year, a similar working day holiday was officialized when Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, signed into law the Decree No.883/2024 (Про День міжнаціональної злагоди і культурного розмаїття), establishing May 21 as the annual Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity.
Belize Electoral Bank and Public Holiday March 12 Government of Belize Press Office (Belmopan) Belize's Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has declared Wednesday, March 12, 2025, as a public and bank holiday in Belize on account of the upcoming general election. As per the aforementioned declaration, signed by Minister of Home Affairs, Kareem Musa, "It is hereby notified that Wednesday, March 12, 2025, will be observed as a public and bank holiday. This declaration is made in accordance with Part II, Section 9 of the Holidays Act, Chapter 289 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011". In the past, the date of Belize's elections was sometimes declared as a one-off public holiday, as was the case in 2020, 2012, and 2003. But, this was not the case in 2008 and 2015. Indeed, in 2020, after November 11 had been declared a one-off public holiday, there was a push by the president of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), Marissa Longsworth, that the upcoming general elections be held on a Sunday, rather than on Wednesday, Nоvеmbеr 11, 2020, to which Belize's then Prime Minister, Dean Barrow, responded that "I cannot get Cabinet’s approval for holding this year’s general elections on a Sunday").
Belize Electoral Bank and Public Holiday March 12 Government of Belize Press Office (Belmopan) Belize's Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has declared Wednesday, March 12, 2025, as a public and bank holiday in Belize on account of the upcoming general election. As per the aforementioned declaration, signed by Minister of Home Affairs, Kareem Musa, "It is hereby notified that Wednesday, March 12, 2025, will be observed as a public and bank holiday. This declaration is made in accordance with Part II, Section 9 of the Holidays Act, Chapter 289 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011". In the past, the date of Belize's elections was sometimes declared as a one-off public holiday, as was the case in 2020, 2012, and 2003. But, this was not the case in 2008 and 2015. Indeed, in 2020, after November 11 had been declared a one-off public holiday, there was a push by the president of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), Marissa Longsworth, that the upcoming general elections be held on a Sunday, rather than on Wednesday, Nоvеmbеr 11, 2020, to which Belize's then Prime Minister, Dean Barrow, responded that "I cannot get Cabinet’s approval for holding this year’s general elections on a Sunday").
Santa Cruz Departmental Public Holiday February 14 Agencia Boliviana de Información (La Paz) Bolivia's Ministry of Labour is expected to declare Friday, February 14, 2025, as a one-off departmental public holiday with suspension of activities on account of the upcoming bicentennial of Santa Cruz. Recall that, last December, the Departmental Legislative Assembly of Santa Cruz approved the Departmental Law on the Celebrations of the 200 Years of Independence of Santa Cruz, establishing February 14 as a departmental holiday, but its status remained unconfirmed, as the declaration of holidays with salary payment is the exclusive responsibility of the national Government. But, for 2025, the President of the Bolivian Assembly, Antonio Talamás, has announced that "both the Executive of the Government and the Departmental Assembly carried out the corresponding procedures to ensure that, at least in 2025 , for the 200 years, a departmental holiday with salary is declared".
Santa Cruz Departmental Public Holiday February 14 Agencia Boliviana de Información (La Paz) Bolivia's Ministry of Labour is expected to declare Friday, February 14, 2025, as a one-off departmental public holiday with suspension of activities on account of the upcoming bicentennial of Santa Cruz. Recall that, last December, the Departmental Legislative Assembly of Santa Cruz approved the Departmental Law on the Celebrations of the 200 Years of Independence of Santa Cruz, establishing February 14 as a departmental holiday, but its status remained unconfirmed, as the declaration of holidays with salary payment is the exclusive responsibility of the national Government. But, for 2025, the President of the Bolivian Assembly, Antonio Talamás, has announced that "both the Executive of the Government and the Departmental Assembly carried out the corresponding procedures to ensure that, at least in 2025 , for the 200 years, a departmental holiday with salary is declared".
Chandigarh Upgrades February 12 To Public Holiday Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh) The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has extended the scope of the hitherto restricted holiday of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, marking Guru Ravi Dass Jayanti, to a public holiday observed in all government offices, boards, corporations and institutions, including industrial establishments, under the Chandigarh Union Territory Administration. The promotion of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, marking Guru Ravi Dass Jayanti, from a restricted holiday to a public holiday, thus amends the the list of 2025 public holidays in Chandigarh as published in last December's Government vide Notification No.6/1/1-IH(I)-2024/18285.
Chandigarh Upgrades February 12 To Public Holiday Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh) The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has extended the scope of the hitherto restricted holiday of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, marking Guru Ravi Dass Jayanti, to a public holiday observed in all government offices, boards, corporations and institutions, including industrial establishments, under the Chandigarh Union Territory Administration. The promotion of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, marking Guru Ravi Dass Jayanti, from a restricted holiday to a public holiday, thus amends the the list of 2025 public holidays in Chandigarh as published in last December's Government vide Notification No.6/1/1-IH(I)-2024/18285.
Mozambique Declares February 12 Mocuba Public Holiday Agencia de Informção de Moçambique (Maputo) Mozambique's Minister of Labor, Gender and Social Action, Ivete Alane, has declared a one-off public holiday, for both the public and private sectors of Mocuba, in Nampula, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, on the occasion of its elevation to the category of city.
Mozambique Declares February 12 Mocuba Public Holiday Agencia de Informção de Moçambique (Maputo) Mozambique's Minister of Labor, Gender and Social Action, Ivete Alane, has declared a one-off public holiday, for both the public and private sectors of Mocuba, in Nampula, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, on the occasion of its elevation to the category of city.
Papua New Guinea Declares February 26 Somare Public Holiday Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (Port Moresby) The Secretary to the Department of Personnel Management of the National Government of Papua New Guinea, Taies Sansan, has issued the Circular Instruction No.2 of 2025 which declares Wednesday, February 26, 2025, as a public holiday. As per the aforementioned circular, "This Circular Instruction is served to advise that Wednesday 26th of February, 2025 has been declared as a National Remembrance Day as per NEC Gazettal No. 626/2024 dated 5th of August, 2024 to observe this day as a Public Holiday throughout Papua New Guinea as this year marks the 4‘ Anniversary of the passing of the Late Great Grand Chief Rt. Hon. Sir Michael Thomas. Somare, First Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea. All public Servants are required to resume normal duties commencing Thursday 27th of February, 2025 at 7.45am.". Recall that, following Chief Somare's death in 2021, Monday, March 1st, and Friday, March 12, 2021, had been declared as public holidays to mark the beginning and end of the mourning period. February 26 fell on a weekend on the 2 subsequent years and therefore the anniversary of Chief Somare's death was declared as a public holiday on Monday, February 28, 2022, and Friday, February 24, 2023. In 2024, it reverted back to February 26, in line with the annual list of appointed non-working public holidays for 2024, as issued in the summer of 2023 by the Governor-General of Papua New Guinea in the National Gazette of Papua New Guinea No. G585.
Papua New Guinea Declares February 26 Somare Public Holiday Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (Port Moresby) The Secretary to the Department of Personnel Management of the National Government of Papua New Guinea, Taies Sansan, has issued the Circular Instruction No.2 of 2025 which declares Wednesday, February 26, 2025, as a public holiday. As per the aforementioned circular, "This Circular Instruction is served to advise that Wednesday 26th of February, 2025 has been declared as a National Remembrance Day as per NEC Gazettal No. 626/2024 dated 5th of August, 2024 to observe this day as a Public Holiday throughout Papua New Guinea as this year marks the 4‘ Anniversary of the passing of the Late Great Grand Chief Rt. Hon. Sir Michael Thomas. Somare, First Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea. All public Servants are required to resume normal duties commencing Thursday 27th of February, 2025 at 7.45am.". Recall that, following Chief Somare's death in 2021, Monday, March 1st, and Friday, March 12, 2021, had been declared as public holidays to mark the beginning and end of the mourning period. February 26 fell on a weekend on the 2 subsequent years and therefore the anniversary of Chief Somare's death was declared as a public holiday on Monday, February 28, 2022, and Friday, February 24, 2023. In 2024, it reverted back to February 26, in line with the annual list of appointed non-working public holidays for 2024, as issued in the summer of 2023 by the Governor-General of Papua New Guinea in the National Gazette of Papua New Guinea No. G585.
Uttarakhand Declares Public Holiday For Guru Ravidas Jayanti Government of Uttarakhand (Dehradun) The General Administration Department of India's State Uttarakhand has issued a government order declaring Wednesday, February 12, 2025, as a public holiday on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti. As per the aforementioned GO, there will be a "holiday in all the offices, institutions and educational institutions of the state government". The aforementioned declaration of a public sector holiday on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, thus amends the list of 2025 public holidays in Uttarakhand as contained in the vide notification No.1958/xxxi(15)G/24-74/2016 of last December.
Uttarakhand Declares Public Holiday For Guru Ravidas Jayanti Government of Uttarakhand (Dehradun) The General Administration Department of India's State Uttarakhand has issued a government order declaring Wednesday, February 12, 2025, as a public holiday on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti. As per the aforementioned GO, there will be a "holiday in all the offices, institutions and educational institutions of the state government". The aforementioned declaration of a public sector holiday on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, thus amends the list of 2025 public holidays in Uttarakhand as contained in the vide notification No.1958/xxxi(15)G/24-74/2016 of last December.
West Bengal Moves Shab-e-Barat Public Holiday Government of West Bengal (Kolkata) The Government of India's state of West Bengal has issued a vide notification moving the upcoming Shab-e-Barat public holiday from Friday, February 14, 2025, to Thursday, February 13, 2025. As per the aforementioned notification, all state government offices, local bodies, statutory bodies, boards, corporations and undertakings controlled or owned by the state government, educational institutions and other offices/institutions under the control of the Bengal government will remain closed on Thursday, February 13, 2025, (as well as Friday, February 14, 2025, on account of the birthday of Thakur Panchanan Barma). Todays announcement thus further amends last November's announced list of 2025 public holidays, as contained in the Department Notification No. 4712 -F(P2), signed by order of the Governor, by the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal, P.K. Mishra.
West Bengal Moves Shab-e-Barat Public Holiday Government of West Bengal (Kolkata) The Government of India's state of West Bengal has issued a vide notification moving the upcoming Shab-e-Barat public holiday from Friday, February 14, 2025, to Thursday, February 13, 2025. As per the aforementioned notification, all state government offices, local bodies, statutory bodies, boards, corporations and undertakings controlled or owned by the state government, educational institutions and other offices/institutions under the control of the Bengal government will remain closed on Thursday, February 13, 2025, (as well as Friday, February 14, 2025, on account of the birthday of Thakur Panchanan Barma). Todays announcement thus further amends last November's announced list of 2025 public holidays, as contained in the Department Notification No. 4712 -F(P2), signed by order of the Governor, by the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal, P.K. Mishra.
Delhi NCT Declares February 12 Public Holiday For Guru Ravidas Jayanti Government of Delhi NCT (New Delhi) The Lieutenant Governor of India's Delhi NCT (National Capital Territory), VK Saxena, has declared Wednesday, February 12, 2025, as a public holiday for the upcoming Guru Ravidas Jayanti. As per the aforementioned vide notification F. No. 53/ 735/ GAD/ CN/ 2025/ 165-206, issued by the Delhi general administration department, "The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi is pleased to declare Wednesday, February 12, 2025, as a holiday in all government offices, autonomous bodies and public undertakings of the Delhi government, on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti". Recall that, in last November's vide Notification No. F. 53/689/GAD/ CN/2024-25/ 2065-2111, containing the list of annual public holidays and restricted holidays to be observed as holidays in all Government offices of the National Capital Territory of Delhi during the year 2025, Guru Ravidas Jayanti was listed as a restricted holiday.
Delhi NCT Declares February 12 Public Holiday For Guru Ravidas Jayanti Government of Delhi NCT (New Delhi) The Lieutenant Governor of India's Delhi NCT (National Capital Territory), VK Saxena, has declared Wednesday, February 12, 2025, as a public holiday for the upcoming Guru Ravidas Jayanti. As per the aforementioned vide notification F. No. 53/ 735/ GAD/ CN/ 2025/ 165-206, issued by the Delhi general administration department, "The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi is pleased to declare Wednesday, February 12, 2025, as a holiday in all government offices, autonomous bodies and public undertakings of the Delhi government, on account of Guru Ravidas Jayanti". Recall that, in last November's vide Notification No. F. 53/689/GAD/ CN/2024-25/ 2065-2111, containing the list of annual public holidays and restricted holidays to be observed as holidays in all Government offices of the National Capital Territory of Delhi during the year 2025, Guru Ravidas Jayanti was listed as a restricted holiday.
Extremadura 2026 Public Holidays Announced Diario Oficial de Extremadura (DOE) The Ministry of Economy, Employment and Digital Transformation of Spain's Autonomous Region of Extremadura has announced its list of regional public holidays for the calendar year 2026 (Calendario Laboral 2026). As per the aforementioned announcement, once again, the Autonomous Region of Extremadura will not declare Shrove Tuesday a regional public holiday in 2025, preferring to declare the Monday after the November 1st and December 6th public holidays as a day in lieu public holidays in 2026. Recall that, in 2023, rather than declaring a day in lieu public holiday on Monday, January 2, 2023, the Junta of Extremadura chose to declare Shrove/Carnival Tuesday a public holiday on February 21. And, in 2024, Shrove/Carnival Tuesday was once again declared a public holiday on February 13, rather than declaring a day in lieu public holiday on Monday, September 9, 2024.
Extremadura 2026 Public Holidays Announced Diario Oficial de Extremadura (DOE) The Ministry of Economy, Employment and Digital Transformation of Spain's Autonomous Region of Extremadura has announced its list of regional public holidays for the calendar year 2026 (Calendario Laboral 2026). As per the aforementioned announcement, once again, the Autonomous Region of Extremadura will not declare Shrove Tuesday a regional public holiday in 2025, preferring to declare the Monday after the November 1st and December 6th public holidays as a day in lieu public holidays in 2026. Recall that, in 2023, rather than declaring a day in lieu public holiday on Monday, January 2, 2023, the Junta of Extremadura chose to declare Shrove/Carnival Tuesday a public holiday on February 21. And, in 2024, Shrove/Carnival Tuesday was once again declared a public holiday on February 13, rather than declaring a day in lieu public holiday on Monday, September 9, 2024.
Liberia Declares Armed Forces Day Public Holiday Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Monrovia) The President of the Republic of Liberia, and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has issued a Proclamation declaring Tuesday, February 11, 2025, as a public holiday in Liberia to mark the 68th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day. The aforementioned proclamation directs all military and paramilitary organizations within the Republic to organize and execute appropriate programs including parades and other ceremonies in recognition of the Day. Such last-minute re-confirmation of annual public holidays are a staple of the Liberian public holidays calendar.
Liberia Declares Armed Forces Day Public Holiday Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Monrovia) The President of the Republic of Liberia, and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has issued a Proclamation declaring Tuesday, February 11, 2025, as a public holiday in Liberia to mark the 68th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day. The aforementioned proclamation directs all military and paramilitary organizations within the Republic to organize and execute appropriate programs including parades and other ceremonies in recognition of the Day. Such last-minute re-confirmation of annual public holidays are a staple of the Liberian public holidays calendar.
Qatar Declares National Sport Day Bank Holiday Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Qatar's Central Bank (QCB) has announced that "Tuesday, 11 February 2025, will be an official holiday for all financial institutions on the occasion of National Sport Day" and that "Financial institutions are to resume work on Wednesday, 12 February 2025". As usual, bank holidays apply to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB), as well as all banks and financial institutions operating under the control of the QCB, Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) and Qatar securities company (QSC). Recall that, in late 2011, Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, had issued the Emiri Decision No.80 of 2011 declaring National Sports Day as a new annual non-working public holiday in Qatar, beginning in February 2012, and in accordance with the Qatari Labour Law No.14 of 2004, which took effect on January 6, 2005, and was amended by the Law No.8 of 2009.
Qatar Declares National Sport Day Bank Holiday Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Qatar's Central Bank (QCB) has announced that "Tuesday, 11 February 2025, will be an official holiday for all financial institutions on the occasion of National Sport Day" and that "Financial institutions are to resume work on Wednesday, 12 February 2025". As usual, bank holidays apply to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB), as well as all banks and financial institutions operating under the control of the QCB, Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) and Qatar securities company (QSC). Recall that, in late 2011, Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, had issued the Emiri Decision No.80 of 2011 declaring National Sports Day as a new annual non-working public holiday in Qatar, beginning in February 2012, and in accordance with the Qatari Labour Law No.14 of 2004, which took effect on January 6, 2005, and was amended by the Law No.8 of 2009.
Taiwan KMT Would Restore 7 Public Holidays Taiwan News (Taipei) In the new session of the Legislative Yuan, the Kuomintang (KMT) intends to give priority to promoting the Draft Regulations on the Implementation of Memorial Days and Holidays (紀念日及節日實施條例草案) with the aim of restoring the 7-day holiday (7天假) for workers. The seven-day entitlement refers to 7 annual public holidays which were removed in 2016 as part of labor law amendments that mandated moving to a two-day weekend for all workers. Recall that, in December 2023, the then Kuomintang (KMT) Presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, had announced that he would bring back December 25 as a an annual public holiday in Taiwan if he won the then upcoming presidential election (this public holiday would not be related to Christmas, but to the anniversary of the adoption of a new Constitution on December 25, 1946).
Taiwan KMT Would Restore 7 Public Holidays Taiwan News (Taipei) In the new session of the Legislative Yuan, the Kuomintang (KMT) intends to give priority to promoting the Draft Regulations on the Implementation of Memorial Days and Holidays (紀念日及節日實施條例草案) with the aim of restoring the 7-day holiday (7天假) for workers. The seven-day entitlement refers to 7 annual public holidays which were removed in 2016 as part of labor law amendments that mandated moving to a two-day weekend for all workers. Recall that, in December 2023, the then Kuomintang (KMT) Presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, had announced that he would bring back December 25 as a an annual public holiday in Taiwan if he won the then upcoming presidential election (this public holiday would not be related to Christmas, but to the anniversary of the adoption of a new Constitution on December 25, 1946).
Cameroon Extends Youth Day Public Holiday Présidence de la République du Cameroun (Yaoundé) Cameroon's President, Paul Biya, has issued the Arrêté No. 0018/CAB/PR du 09 fev 2025 declaring Monday, February 10, 2025, as a public holiday throughout the national territory, as part of the upcoming 59th edition of Youth Day which will be observed on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. As per the aforementioned decree, the additional public holiday on February 10 "will allow citizens, especially the youth, to better prepare for the official celebrations". Recall that article 3 of the law establishing the regime of legal holidays in the Republic of Cameroon, which states that "when a legal religious holiday is celebrated on a Sunday, or a public holiday, the President of the Republic may, by decree, declare a public holiday not off work on the consecutive day", as was often done in the past. This article 3 has also been interpreted as the president's power to declare bridge public holidays, as was done in the summer of 2023 when President Biya declared Monday, August 14, 2023, as a one-off public holiday to bridge the gap between the August 15 Assumption Day public holiday and the preceding weekend.
Cameroon Extends Youth Day Public Holiday Présidence de la République du Cameroun (Yaoundé) Cameroon's President, Paul Biya, has issued the Arrêté No. 0018/CAB/PR du 09 fev 2025 declaring Monday, February 10, 2025, as a public holiday throughout the national territory, as part of the upcoming 59th edition of Youth Day which will be observed on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. As per the aforementioned decree, the additional public holiday on February 10 "will allow citizens, especially the youth, to better prepare for the official celebrations". Recall that article 3 of the law establishing the regime of legal holidays in the Republic of Cameroon, which states that "when a legal religious holiday is celebrated on a Sunday, or a public holiday, the President of the Republic may, by decree, declare a public holiday not off work on the consecutive day", as was often done in the past. This article 3 has also been interpreted as the president's power to declare bridge public holidays, as was done in the summer of 2023 when President Biya declared Monday, August 14, 2023, as a one-off public holiday to bridge the gap between the August 15 Assumption Day public holiday and the preceding weekend.
Qatar Announces February 11 Sport Day Public Holiday Qatari News Agency (QNA) Qatar's Amiri Diwan has announced that Tuesday, February 11, 2025, corresponding to 12 Sha'ban 1446 AH, had been declared a public holiday in Qatar on account of this year's National Sport Day, and in line with the Amiri decision No. 80 of December 6, 2011 (published in the Official Gazette of January 15, 2012), which established the annual National Sport Day public holiday in Qatar.
Qatar Announces February 11 Sport Day Public Holiday Qatari News Agency (QNA) Qatar's Amiri Diwan has announced that Tuesday, February 11, 2025, corresponding to 12 Sha'ban 1446 AH, had been declared a public holiday in Qatar on account of this year's National Sport Day, and in line with the Amiri decision No. 80 of December 6, 2011 (published in the Official Gazette of January 15, 2012), which established the annual National Sport Day public holiday in Qatar.
St Vincent and the Grenadines 2025 Public Holidays Announced Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines (Saint Vincent) The government of St Vincent and the Grenadines has released its list of official bank holidays and non-working public holidays for the calendar year 2025, and confirming the often fluctuating dates of Carnival Monday and Carnival Tuesday. Contrary to past years, no mention was needed near any Sunday public holiday, that "the holiday would be celebrated on the following Monday".
St Vincent and the Grenadines 2025 Public Holidays Announced Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines (Saint Vincent) The government of St Vincent and the Grenadines has released its list of official bank holidays and non-working public holidays for the calendar year 2025, and confirming the often fluctuating dates of Carnival Monday and Carnival Tuesday. Contrary to past years, no mention was needed near any Sunday public holiday, that "the holiday would be celebrated on the following Monday".
Madeira Declares March 4-5 Public Sector Holidays Governo de Portugal (Lisboa) The Regional Government Council of the ruling PSD minority executive for the Region of Madeira, has declared a one-off public sector holiday for Carnival on Tuesday, March 4, and the morning of Wednesday, March 5, 2025. As per the aforementioned announcement, these public sector holidays will apply to "all services, public institutes and public companies under the supervision of the Regional Government". Recall that, last December, the Portuguese Republic's Representative for the Region of Madeira, Ireneu Barreto, had approved the proposal by the plenary session of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira to declare April 2 as a new regional public holiday to mark Autonomy Day.
Madeira Declares March 4-5 Public Sector Holidays Governo de Portugal (Lisboa) The Regional Government Council of the ruling PSD minority executive for the Region of Madeira, has declared a one-off public sector holiday for Carnival on Tuesday, March 4, and the morning of Wednesday, March 5, 2025. As per the aforementioned announcement, these public sector holidays will apply to "all services, public institutes and public companies under the supervision of the Regional Government". Recall that, last December, the Portuguese Republic's Representative for the Region of Madeira, Ireneu Barreto, had approved the proposal by the plenary session of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira to declare April 2 as a new regional public holiday to mark Autonomy Day.
Belgium Considering August 15 Public Holiday Replacement De Standaard (Antwerp) The government of Belgium is once again considering allowing each federal state (community) government to declare its own public holiday for both the private and public sectors, in exchange for the cancellation of one of the nationwide public holidays (August 15 is mentioned as a likely choice). Recall that, in October 2020, the then newly formed Belgian government had given impetus to the Consultation Committee on Institutional Reform whose proposals included the change of each federal state (community) government public holiday into full public holidays for both the private and public sectors. At the time, the proposed new public holidays would be on July 11 for the Flemmish Community, September 27 for the Walloon Community, and November 15 for the German Community. These 3 dates were, and still are, for the moment, government-only holidays. The most recent proposed changes would include May 8 as a regional public holiday for the Brussels region. The list of public holidays in Belgium has remained stable over the past 2 decades, apart from the confusion that occurred in 2008 due to the conjunction of Labour Day and Ascension Day.
Belgium Considering August 15 Public Holiday Replacement De Standaard (Antwerp) The government of Belgium is once again considering allowing each federal state (community) government to declare its own public holiday for both the private and public sectors, in exchange for the cancellation of one of the nationwide public holidays (August 15 is mentioned as a likely choice). Recall that, in October 2020, the then newly formed Belgian government had given impetus to the Consultation Committee on Institutional Reform whose proposals included the change of each federal state (community) government public holiday into full public holidays for both the private and public sectors. At the time, the proposed new public holidays would be on July 11 for the Flemmish Community, September 27 for the Walloon Community, and November 15 for the German Community. These 3 dates were, and still are, for the moment, government-only holidays. The most recent proposed changes would include May 8 as a regional public holiday for the Brussels region. The list of public holidays in Belgium has remained stable over the past 2 decades, apart from the confusion that occurred in 2008 due to the conjunction of Labour Day and Ascension Day.
Japanese 2026 Bank Holidays Announced The Bank of Japan (Tokyo) Following the recent announcement of the list of official public holidays in Japan for the upcoming calendar year 2026, based on the National Holidays Act (Act No. 178 of 1948), and the release of the calendar guidelines for 2026 (令和7年) by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (に国立天文台), the Bank of Japan has in turn released the annual list of bank holidays in Japan for the calendar year 2026, which adds a few bank holidays dates to the aforementioned list of 2026 public holidays in Japan. As per the Bank of Japan's annual announcement, "The Bank's offices in Japan -- Head Office, branches, and local offices -- are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and the following days: National holidays (as defined in Act No. 178 of 1948) and Substitute holidays, and December 31 to January 3".
Japanese 2026 Bank Holidays Announced The Bank of Japan (Tokyo) Following the recent announcement of the list of official public holidays in Japan for the upcoming calendar year 2026, based on the National Holidays Act (Act No. 178 of 1948), and the release of the calendar guidelines for 2026 (令和7年) by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (に国立天文台), the Bank of Japan has in turn released the annual list of bank holidays in Japan for the calendar year 2026, which adds a few bank holidays dates to the aforementioned list of 2026 public holidays in Japan. As per the Bank of Japan's annual announcement, "The Bank's offices in Japan -- Head Office, branches, and local offices -- are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and the following days: National holidays (as defined in Act No. 178 of 1948) and Substitute holidays, and December 31 to January 3".
Russian Duma To Consider Easter and the Holy Trinity Public Holidays ITAR-TASS (Moscow) The first deputy chairman of the State Duma (the lower house of the Federal Assembly of Russia) committee on control, Dmitriy Gusev, has announced that a bill is being introduced to declare Easter and Trinity as new annual public holidays in Russia. As per the aforementioned announcement, since Easter and Trinity both fall on Sundays, the following Mondays would be observed as public holidays. The last new annual public holidays added to Russia's calendar were added at the very end of 2004, when President Putin signed into law amendments to Article 112 of Russia's Labour Code, passed by the State Duma on December 24 and the Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, on Monday, December 27, 2004. As per the Government Decree of 27.12.2004 N 845, the November 7, October Revolution Day, was abolished, and replaced by People's Unity Day on November 4 to commemorate the liberation of Moscow from Polish troops in 1612. Additionally, the December 12 Constitution Day public holiday, dedicated to the constitution adopted in 1993 under President Boris Yeltsin, was also scrapped.
Russian Duma To Consider Easter and the Holy Trinity Public Holidays ITAR-TASS (Moscow) The first deputy chairman of the State Duma (the lower house of the Federal Assembly of Russia) committee on control, Dmitriy Gusev, has announced that a bill is being introduced to declare Easter and Trinity as new annual public holidays in Russia. As per the aforementioned announcement, since Easter and Trinity both fall on Sundays, the following Mondays would be observed as public holidays. The last new annual public holidays added to Russia's calendar were added at the very end of 2004, when President Putin signed into law amendments to Article 112 of Russia's Labour Code, passed by the State Duma on December 24 and the Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, on Monday, December 27, 2004. As per the Government Decree of 27.12.2004 N 845, the November 7, October Revolution Day, was abolished, and replaced by People's Unity Day on November 4 to commemorate the liberation of Moscow from Polish troops in 1612. Additionally, the December 12 Constitution Day public holiday, dedicated to the constitution adopted in 1993 under President Boris Yeltsin, was also scrapped.
Saudi Arabia Declares Founding Day Public Holiday February 22 Saudi Press Agency (SPA) The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) has announced that Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development had declared Saturday, February 22, 2025, a public holiday for both the private and non-profit sectors in observance of Saudi Founding Day. The aforementioned announcement does not mention a possible day in lieu public sector holiday on Sunday, February 23, 2025, due to February 22, 2025, falling on a weekend (Saudi Arabia switched from Thursday-Friday to Friday-Saturday weekends in 2013). Recall that Thursday, February 23, 2023, was declared a bridge public sector holiday "for those included in the provisions of the executive regulations for human resources in the civil service" to link the then newly established, February 22, Founding Day public holiday with the subsequent weekend. Founding Day was established in January 2022, when Saudi Arabia's King, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, issued a royal decree declaring February 22 as a new annual public holiday to be observed on February 22 to "commemorate the commencement of the reign of Imam Muhammad bin Saud and his founding of the first Saudi state in 1727".
Saudi Arabia Declares Founding Day Public Holiday February 22 Saudi Press Agency (SPA) The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) has announced that Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development had declared Saturday, February 22, 2025, a public holiday for both the private and non-profit sectors in observance of Saudi Founding Day. The aforementioned announcement does not mention a possible day in lieu public sector holiday on Sunday, February 23, 2025, due to February 22, 2025, falling on a weekend (Saudi Arabia switched from Thursday-Friday to Friday-Saturday weekends in 2013). Recall that Thursday, February 23, 2023, was declared a bridge public sector holiday "for those included in the provisions of the executive regulations for human resources in the civil service" to link the then newly established, February 22, Founding Day public holiday with the subsequent weekend. Founding Day was established in January 2022, when Saudi Arabia's King, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, issued a royal decree declaring February 22 as a new annual public holiday to be observed on February 22 to "commemorate the commencement of the reign of Imam Muhammad bin Saud and his founding of the first Saudi state in 1727".
Cayman Islands Pass Referendum Bill Gazette Office Cayman Islands Government (Grand Cayman) The Cayman Islands legislature has passed the Referendum Bill by a vote of 13-5. As per the Public Holidays Law (2007 Revision), public holidays shall include "the day appointed under the Elections Law for the taking of the poll at a general election in the Islands" and this was later confirmed to include the date of any referendum in the Cayman Islands, though referenda have often been scheduled on the same date as general elections, to minimize the number of additional public holidays. Last September, the Cayman Islands cabinet had approved a public referendum on a cruise berthing facility to be held on the same date as the upcoming 2025 general elections, whose date was then yet to be announced. An almost identical Cruise Pier Referendum had already been announced and gazetted in October 2019, for December 19, 2019, but the referendum eventually fell through and on December 9, 2019, the Government of the Cayman Islands released an updated listing of the 2019 public holidays, including an updated public holiday for the Cruise Pier Referendum, now marked as "Thursday, 19 December, Public Holiday (No Referendum)".
Cayman Islands Pass Referendum Bill Gazette Office Cayman Islands Government (Grand Cayman) The Cayman Islands legislature has passed the Referendum Bill by a vote of 13-5. As per the Public Holidays Law (2007 Revision), public holidays shall include "the day appointed under the Elections Law for the taking of the poll at a general election in the Islands" and this was later confirmed to include the date of any referendum in the Cayman Islands, though referenda have often been scheduled on the same date as general elections, to minimize the number of additional public holidays. Last September, the Cayman Islands cabinet had approved a public referendum on a cruise berthing facility to be held on the same date as the upcoming 2025 general elections, whose date was then yet to be announced. An almost identical Cruise Pier Referendum had already been announced and gazetted in October 2019, for December 19, 2019, but the referendum eventually fell through and on December 9, 2019, the Government of the Cayman Islands released an updated listing of the 2019 public holidays, including an updated public holiday for the Cruise Pier Referendum, now marked as "Thursday, 19 December, Public Holiday (No Referendum)".
Malaysian Financial Market Holiday February 11 Bernama News Agency (Johor Baru) Bursa Malaysia has announced that Malaysia's financial markets would be closed on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, "in conjunction with the Thaipusam public holiday", but that "activities on the exchange, along with its subsidiaries, will resume as usual on Wednesday, February 12, 2025". The Thaipusam public holiday is observed as an annual state public holiday in 7 Malaysian State and Federal Territories. But, late last month, for the fourth consecutive year, Kedah's Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, also declared Thaipusam a public holiday in Kedah, for 2025.
Malaysian Financial Market Holiday February 11 Bernama News Agency (Johor Baru) Bursa Malaysia has announced that Malaysia's financial markets would be closed on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, "in conjunction with the Thaipusam public holiday", but that "activities on the exchange, along with its subsidiaries, will resume as usual on Wednesday, February 12, 2025". The Thaipusam public holiday is observed as an annual state public holiday in 7 Malaysian State and Federal Territories. But, late last month, for the fourth consecutive year, Kedah's Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, also declared Thaipusam a public holiday in Kedah, for 2025.
Rajasthan Electoral Public Holiday February 14 Government of Rajasthan (Jaipur) The Government of India's state of Rajasthan has issued a vide notification No.16(1)V.M/2024 declaring a public holiday on Friday, February 14, 2025, on account of the by-election being held in the Panchayat Raj Area of Rajasthan on that date. Today's declaration of a one-off limited public holiday on Friday, February 14, 2025, is a minor amendment to the list of 2025 public holidays in Rajasthan as set out in last October's vide notification No. 6(1)SA.PV/6/ 2024-3592.
Rajasthan Electoral Public Holiday February 14 Government of Rajasthan (Jaipur) The Government of India's state of Rajasthan has issued a vide notification No.16(1)V.M/2024 declaring a public holiday on Friday, February 14, 2025, on account of the by-election being held in the Panchayat Raj Area of Rajasthan on that date. Today's declaration of a one-off limited public holiday on Friday, February 14, 2025, is a minor amendment to the list of 2025 public holidays in Rajasthan as set out in last October's vide notification No. 6(1)SA.PV/6/ 2024-3592.
Turkey Amends 2033 Public Holidays Din Hizmetleri Genel Müdürlüğü - Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı Müdürlükler (Istanbul) The Government of Turkey has released an amended version of its previously-released list of 2033 public holidays, in accordance with the Law 2429 On National And General Holidays dated 17.03.1981 and Amendments 6752 To The Law On National And General Holidays, dated 25.10.2016. The aforementioned announcement amends the date of the 2033 End of Ramadan public holidays that had been jointly announced in the summer of 2023 by Turkey's General Directorate of Religious Services and the Presidency of Religious Affairs of Turkey, in a list of the expected dates of the lay and religious public holidays in Turkey for the years 2028-2035. The list of the expected dates of the lay and religious public holidays in Turkey for the years 2023-2027 had been released at the end of 2020.
Turkey Amends 2033 Public Holidays Din Hizmetleri Genel Müdürlüğü - Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı Müdürlükler (Istanbul) The Government of Turkey has released an amended version of its previously-released list of 2033 public holidays, in accordance with the Law 2429 On National And General Holidays dated 17.03.1981 and Amendments 6752 To The Law On National And General Holidays, dated 25.10.2016. The aforementioned announcement amends the date of the 2033 End of Ramadan public holidays that had been jointly announced in the summer of 2023 by Turkey's General Directorate of Religious Services and the Presidency of Religious Affairs of Turkey, in a list of the expected dates of the lay and religious public holidays in Turkey for the years 2028-2035. The list of the expected dates of the lay and religious public holidays in Turkey for the years 2023-2027 had been released at the end of 2020.
