Public Holidays in Austria 2026 – Catholic, National & Public Holidays
Austria celebrates a wide range of public holidays each year, blending Christian religious traditions with historical and national events. These holidays reflect the country’s Catholic heritage and cultural identity, with festivities observed across all nine federal states.
Overview of Public Holidays in Austria
Public holidays in Austria include national, religious, and regional observances. While national holidays are recognized throughout the country, certain saints’ days and regional feasts are celebrated only in specific provinces. Most businesses, schools, and government offices close on official public holidays, though tourist areas often remain active.
List of Public Holidays in Austria (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Celebrates the start of the new year. |
| Epiphany | January 6 | Tuesday | Christian feast commemorating the visit of the Three Kings. |
| Easter Monday | April 6 | Monday | Follows Easter Sunday; celebrates Christ’s resurrection. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Honors workers and social achievements. |
| Ascension Day | May 14 | Thursday | Marks Christ’s ascension into heaven. |
| Whit Monday | June 1 | Monday | Commemorates the Holy Spirit descending upon the Apostles. |
| Corpus Christi | June 11 | Thursday | Catholic celebration of the Holy Eucharist. |
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Saturday | Commemorates the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| National Day | October 26 | Monday | Marks Austria’s declaration of neutrality in 1955. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Sunday | Honors all Christian saints. |
| Immaculate Conception | December 8 | Tuesday | Catholic feast celebrating Mary’s immaculate conception. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
| St. Stephen’s Day | December 26 | Saturday | Honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. |
List of Public Holidays in Austria (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the new year. |
| Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige) | January 6 | Monday | Christian feast celebrating the visit of the Three Kings. |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Marks the day after Easter Sunday, celebrating Christ’s resurrection. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Honors workers and social achievements. |
| Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) | May 29 | Thursday | Commemorates the ascension of Jesus into heaven. |
| Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) | June 9 | Monday | Marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. |
| Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam) | June 19 | Thursday | Celebrates the Holy Eucharist with processions and ceremonies. |
| Assumption of Mary (Mariä Himmelfahrt) | August 15 | Friday | Catholic feast commemorating the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| National Day | October 26 | Sunday | Commemorates Austria’s declaration of neutrality in 1955. |
| All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen) | November 1 | Saturday | Honors all saints of the Christian faith. |
| Immaculate Conception (Mariä Empfängnis) | December 8 | Monday | Celebrates the Virgin Mary’s immaculate conception. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
| St. Stephen’s Day | December 26 | Friday | Honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr; marked by family visits and festive meals. |
Regional and Religious Observances
Beyond national holidays, each Austrian state celebrates regional feasts such as St. Rupert’s Day in Salzburg (September 24) and St. Leopold’s Day in Lower Austria (November 15). The country’s strong Catholic tradition means church processions, festivals, and community gatherings are common during major religious holidays.
Public Observances and Closures
During official holidays, most government offices, schools, and shops are closed. Public transport operates on limited schedules, while restaurants and tourist attractions—especially in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck—often remain open. Christmas and Easter are the most widely celebrated holidays, with markets, concerts, and traditional meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Austria have?
Austria observes 13 national public holidays each year, along with additional regional celebrations depending on the state.
What is Austria’s National Day?
National Day on October 26 commemorates Austria’s 1955 declaration of neutrality following the withdrawal of Allied forces.
Is Good Friday a public holiday in Austria?
Good Friday is not a public holiday for everyone, but it is recognized for Protestant and Old Catholic communities.
What are the main religious holidays in Austria?
Major religious holidays include Christmas, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, Corpus Christi, and Assumption of Mary.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Austria reflect a deep-rooted Catholic heritage and centuries of cultural tradition. From solemn church feasts to vibrant regional festivities, these holidays offer meaningful opportunities for celebration, reflection, and community connection across the country.
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