Public Holidays in Argentina 2026 – National, Catholic & Cultural Days
Argentina observes numerous public holidays that highlight its national identity, Catholic traditions, and cultural heritage. These holidays commemorate major historical events and religious observances celebrated throughout the country. Many families and travelers also use long weekends to explore iconic destinations, guided by resources such as places to visit in Argentina or enjoy stays at the best hotels in Argentina.
Overview of Public Holidays in Argentina
Argentina designates both national holidays and non-working commemorative days. Government offices, banks, and most businesses close on these dates. Many holidays are strategically placed or moved to Mondays to create long weekends, encouraging domestic tourism and travel across the country.
List of Public Holidays in Argentina (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the first day of the Gregorian year. |
| Carnival (Monday) | February 16 | Monday | Features parades, costumes, and nationwide festivities. |
| Carnival (Tuesday) | February 17 | Tuesday | Continues Argentina’s vibrant Carnival celebrations. |
| Memorial Day (Día de la Memoria) | March 24 | Tuesday | Honors victims of the 1976 military dictatorship. |
| Malvinas Day | April 2 | Thursday | Pays tribute to fallen soldiers and veterans of the Falklands War. |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | Christian holiday marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Friday | Celebrates the rights and contributions of workers. |
| May Revolution Day | May 25 | Monday | Commemorates the historic 1810 revolution toward independence. |
| Martín Miguel de Güemes Day | June 17 | Wednesday | Honors Güemes, a key figure in Argentina’s fight for independence. |
| Flag Day | June 20 | Saturday | Tribute to Manuel Belgrano, creator of Argentina’s national flag. |
| Independence Day | July 9 | Thursday | Celebrates Argentina’s declaration of independence in 1816. |
| San Martín Day | August 17 | Monday (substitute) | Commemorates General José de San Martín, national liberator. |
| Diversity Respect Day | October 12 | Monday | Honors Indigenous heritage and cultural diversity. |
| Immaculate Conception Day | December 8 | Tuesday | Catholic feast of the Virgin Mary’s immaculate conception. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. |
List of Public Holidays in Argentina (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the new year. |
| Carnival (Monday) | March 3 | Monday | Festive pre-Lenten celebration with parades and music. |
| Carnival (Tuesday) | March 4 | Tuesday | Continues Carnival festivities nationwide. |
| Memorial Day | March 24 | Monday | Honors victims of Argentina’s 1976 military dictatorship. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Malvinas Day | April 2 | Wednesday | Honors Falklands War veterans. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrates the rights and contributions of workers. |
| May Revolution Day | May 25 | Sunday | Commemorates the 1810 revolution toward independence. |
| Martín Miguel de Güemes Day | June 17 | Tuesday | Honors General Güemes. |
| Flag Day | June 20 | Friday | Tribute to Manuel Belgrano. |
| Independence Day | July 9 | Wednesday | Celebrates Argentina’s independence from Spain. |
| San Martín Day | August 18 (substitute) | Monday | Commemorates national liberator José de San Martín. |
| Diversity Respect Day | October 13 (substitute) | Monday | Honors cultural diversity and Indigenous heritage. |
| Immaculate Conception Day | December 8 | Monday | Catholic feast of the Virgin Mary. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Marks the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Argentina’s holidays combine national pride with strong Catholic foundations. Carnival brings color, music, and parades, while Good Friday and Christmas are reflective and family-oriented. Historic commemorations, especially May Revolution Day and Independence Day, strengthen national unity and identity.
Public Observances and Closures
On public holidays, schools, government buildings, and many businesses close nationwide. Major cities such as Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza often see increased tourism activity during long weekends, with open attractions, restaurants, and hotels accommodating travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Argentina have in 2026?
Argentina observes around 15 national public holidays in 2026, including religious festivals, patriotic commemorations, and cultural observances.
Is Carnival a public holiday in Argentina?
Yes. Carnival Monday and Tuesday are official public holidays marked by nationwide celebrations, music, and colorful parades.
When is Independence Day in Argentina?
Independence Day is celebrated on July 9, marking Argentina’s independence from Spain in 1816.
Do businesses close on religious holidays?
Most government offices and many businesses close on major Christian holidays such as Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Argentina reflect a mix of patriotic pride, cultural richness, and deep religious tradition. Whether commemorating historic milestones or celebrating Christian feasts, these holidays foster unity and national identity. Many residents and visitors use the long weekends to discover the country’s attractions through guides like places to visit in Argentina and curated lists of the best hotels in Argentina.
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