Public Holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina 2026 – National & Religious Observances
Bosnia and Herzegovina observes a diverse range of public holidays that reflect its multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and regionally varied identity. National, Islamic, Orthodox, and Catholic holidays are all officially recognized across its entities, creating a rich annual calendar of cultural and spiritual observances.
Overview of Public Holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Public holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina are shaped by its administrative structure, comprising the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republika Srpska, and Brčko District. While some holidays are celebrated nationwide, others vary by religious or regional community. Key observances include Eid festivals, Orthodox and Catholic Christmas, Easter holidays, and national commemorations such as Independence Day and Statehood Day.
List of Public Holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 – 2 | Thursday – Friday | Celebrates the start of the new year across all entities. |
| Orthodox Christmas Eve & Day (Republika Srpska) | January 6 – 7 | Tuesday – Wednesday | Observed by Serbian Orthodox communities. |
| Independence Day (Federation) | March 1 | Sunday | Marks the 1992 independence referendum. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayram) | February 17 – 19* | Tuesday – Thursday* | Celebrates the end of Ramadan in Muslim communities. |
| Good Friday (Catholic) | April 3 | Friday | Christian Holy Week observance. |
| Easter Monday (Catholic) | April 6 | Monday | Celebrated by Catholics and Protestants. |
| Orthodox Good Friday | April 10 | Friday | Observed by Serbian Orthodox Christians. |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | April 13 | Monday | Marks the continuation of Orthodox Easter celebrations. |
| Labour Day | May 1 – 2 | Friday – Saturday | Honors workers and trade unions nationwide. |
| Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayram) | April 28 – May 1* | Tuesday – Friday* | Muslim holiday commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion. |
| St. Vitus Day (Vidovdan) – Republika Srpska | June 28 | Sunday | Significant Serbian cultural and religious observance. |
| Assumption of Mary (Catholic) | August 15 | Saturday | Honors the Virgin Mary within Catholic communities. |
| All Saints’ Day (Catholic) | November 1 | Sunday | Christian commemoration of saints and martyrs. |
| Statehood Day (Federation) | November 25 | Tuesday | Marks the 1943 ZAVNOBiH Assembly. |
| Christmas Day (Catholic) | December 25 | Friday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
*Islamic dates are approximate and subject to moon sightings by the Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
List of Public Holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2025)
Here is the previously observed holiday calendar for 2025:
Religious and Cultural Significance
The holiday calendar reflects Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cultural diversity. Catholic communities observe Christmas and Easter, Orthodox Christians follow their own religious calendar, and Muslim communities celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. National holidays such as Independence Day and Statehood Day highlight the shared political history of the nation.
Public Observances and Closures
On official holidays, government offices, banks, and schools close within the respective entities. Major cities such as Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar host cultural events, religious ceremonies, and public celebrations that reflect the traditions of their local communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Bosnia and Herzegovina have?
The country observes approximately 12–15 public holidays each year, depending on the entity and religious community.
Do all entities share the same holiday calendar?
No. The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republika Srpska, and Brčko District observe some different holidays based on their cultural and religious compositions.
Are Islamic holidays public holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are officially recognized in the Federation and widely observed by Muslim communities nationwide.
When is Statehood Day celebrated?
Statehood Day is celebrated on November 25, marking the 1943 ZAVNOBiH session that affirmed Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina highlight its rich cultural mosaic, blending Islamic, Orthodox, and Catholic traditions with national milestones. These celebrations reflect the country’s enduring identity, diversity, and shared history.
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