Public Holidays in Albania 2026 – National & Public Celebrations
Albania observes a diverse range of public holidays that reflect its national pride, religious harmony, and historical milestones. These holidays celebrate both civic achievements and faith-based traditions, uniting Albanians across different communities. Public holidays also offer an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to explore the country’s natural beauty, historical towns, and cultural attractions. During long weekends, many people enjoy short getaways using guides like places to visit in Albania or plan relaxing stays using curated lists such as the best hotels in Albania.
Overview of Public Holidays in Albania
Albania officially recognizes several national and religious holidays each year. State institutions, banks, and schools close on these dates, while businesses may also grant employees paid leave. The mix of Muslim, Catholic, and Orthodox celebrations highlights Albania’s pluralistic identity and peaceful coexistence. Many locals take advantage of holiday periods for domestic tourism, making it a perfect time to visit destinations like Berat, Shkodër, and Sarandë or enjoy comfortable stays at the top-rated hotels in Albania.
List of Public Holidays in Albania (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1–2 | Thursday–Friday | Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Summer Day (Dita e Verës) | March 14 | Saturday | Ancient Albanian festival celebrating the arrival of spring. |
| Nowruz (Nevruz Day) | March 20 | Friday | Celebrated by Bektashi Muslims, symbolizing renewal and peace. |
| Catholic Easter | April 5 | Sunday | Christian festival commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. |
| Orthodox Easter | April 12 | Sunday | Observed by the Orthodox Christian community of Albania. |
| May Day (International Workers’ Day) | May 1 | Friday | Celebrates labor rights and workers’ contributions. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Fitër Bajram) | March 20–22* | Friday–Sunday* | Marks the end of Ramadan fasting for Muslims. |
| Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bajram) | May 28–30* | Thursday–Saturday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God. |
| Mother Teresa Day | October 19 | Monday | Honors Saint Teresa of Calcutta, born to Albanian parents. |
| Independence Day | November 28 | Saturday | Marks Albania’s declaration of independence in 1912. |
| Liberation Day | November 29 | Sunday | Commemorates Albania’s liberation during World War II. |
| National Youth Day | December 8 | Monday | Celebrates the student movement that led to democracy in 1990. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. |
*Islamic dates are approximate and may vary depending on lunar sightings.
List of Public Holidays in Albania (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1–2 | Wednesday–Thursday | Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Summer Day (Dita e Verës) | March 14 | Friday | Ancient Albanian festival celebrating the arrival of spring. |
| Nowruz (Nevruz Day) | March 21 | Friday | Symbolizes spiritual renewal among Bektashi Muslims. |
| Catholic Easter | April 20 | Sunday | Christian festival commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. |
| Orthodox Easter | April 27 | Sunday | Observed by the Orthodox Christian community. |
| May Day | May 1 | Thursday | Honors labor rights and workers’ contributions. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Fitër Bajram) | March 30 – April 1* | Sunday–Tuesday* | Marks the end of Ramadan fasting. |
| Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bajram) | June 6 – June 8* | Friday–Sunday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion. |
| Mother Teresa Day | October 19 | Sunday | Honors Saint Teresa of Calcutta. |
| Independence Day | November 28 | Friday | Celebrates Albania’s independence in 1912. |
| Liberation Day | November 29 | Saturday | Marks liberation from German occupation. |
| National Youth Day | December 8 | Monday | Commemorates the 1990 student movement. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
*Islamic dates are approximate and may vary based on moon sightings.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Albania’s public holidays reflect harmony among its Muslim, Catholic, and Orthodox communities. Festivals such as Eid al-Fitr, Orthodox Easter, and Christmas are celebrated nationally, symbolizing unity and respect among all faiths. Cultural holidays like Summer Day and Nowruz highlight themes of renewal, joy, and family bonding. Many families take this time to travel within the country, often using resources like places to visit in Albania to plan memorable holiday experiences.
Public Observances and Closures
During official holidays, government institutions, banks, and schools remain closed across Albania. While administrative services pause, major tourist sites, shopping centers, and restaurants in cities like Tirana, Shkodër, and Berat stay open. This makes public holidays an ideal time for short trips, cultural explorations, or weekend stays at some of the best hotels in Albania.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Albania have in 2026?
Albania observes around 14 official public holidays in 2026, including national celebrations and major religious observances.
Does Albania recognize both Catholic and Orthodox Easter?
Yes. Due to its diverse Christian population, Albania officially recognizes both Catholic and Orthodox Easter each year.
Is Nowruz a public holiday in Albania?
Yes. Nowruz (Nevruz Day) is a recognized public holiday celebrated by the Bektashi community and symbolizes spiritual renewal.
What are the major national holidays in Albania?
Key national holidays include Independence Day on November 28 and Liberation Day on November 29, both commemorating pivotal moments in Albanian history.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Albania embody the country’s blend of heritage, faith, and national pride. Whether observing religious festivals or celebrating historical achievements, these holidays bring communities together. They also offer residents and travelers perfect moments to enjoy Albania’s landscapes, cultural sites, and hospitality—especially with guides like places to visit in Albania and curated lists of the best hotels in Albania.
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