Public Holidays in Colombia 2026 – National, Catholic & Cultural Holidays
Colombia observes a vibrant mix of public holidays that reflect its Catholic faith, historical milestones, and diverse cultural heritage. Known for having one of the highest numbers of public holidays in the world, Colombia’s calendar is filled with both national commemorations and religious observances. Many Colombians take advantage of long weekends to travel, explore destinations featured in places to visit in Colombia, or relax at the best hotels in Colombia.
Overview of Public Holidays in Colombia
Public holidays in Colombia include national civic events and religious festivals largely influenced by Roman Catholicism. Under Law 51 of 1983 (the Emiliani Law), several holidays are officially moved to the following Monday, creating long weekends that promote tourism and family time. Celebrations range from solemn religious processions during Holy Week to patriotic parades on Independence Day.
List of Public Holidays in Colombia (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the beginning of the new year. |
| Epiphany (Día de los Reyes Magos) | January 12 | Monday | Commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men to Jesus. |
| Saint Joseph’s Day | March 23 | Monday | Honors Saint Joseph, husband of the Virgin Mary. |
| Holy Thursday | April 2 | Thursday | Marks the Last Supper during Holy Week. |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Celebrates workers’ rights and achievements. |
| Ascension Day | May 18 | Monday | Marks Christ’s ascension into heaven. |
| Corpus Christi | June 8 | Monday | Celebrates the body and blood of Christ. |
| Sacred Heart Day | June 15 | Monday | Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. |
| Saint Peter and Saint Paul Day | June 29 | Monday | Honors the apostles Peter and Paul. |
| Independence Day | July 20 | Monday | Commemorates Colombia’s independence from Spain in 1810. |
| Battle of Boyacá Day | August 7 | Friday | Marks the decisive battle securing independence. |
| Assumption Day | August 17 | Monday | Honors the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| Columbus Day (Día de la Raza) | October 12 | Monday | Commemorates the cultural encounter of Europe and the Americas. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 2 | Monday | Honors all Christian saints and martyrs. |
| Independence of Cartagena | November 16 | Monday | Celebrates Cartagena’s independence from Spain. |
| Immaculate Conception Day | December 8 | Tuesday | Celebrates the Virgin Mary’s immaculate conception. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
List of Public Holidays in Colombia (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the new year. |
| Epiphany | January 6 | Monday | Commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men. |
| Saint Joseph’s Day | March 24 | Monday | Honors Saint Joseph. |
| Holy Thursday | April 17 | Thursday | Marks the Last Supper. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Commemorates the crucifixion of Christ. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrates workers’ rights. |
| Ascension Day | June 2 | Monday | Marks Christ’s ascension. |
| Corpus Christi | June 23 | Monday | Celebrates the Eucharist. |
| Sacred Heart Day | June 30 | Monday | Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. |
| Saint Peter and Saint Paul Day | June 30 | Monday | Honors the apostles. |
| Independence Day | July 20 | Sunday | Marks independence from Spain. |
| Battle of Boyacá Day | August 7 | Thursday | Decisive independence battle. |
| Assumption Day | August 18 | Monday | Honors the Virgin Mary. |
| Columbus Day | October 13 | Monday | Commemorates cultural encounters. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 3 | Monday | Honors all saints. |
| Independence of Cartagena | November 10 | Monday | Celebrates Cartagena’s independence. |
| Immaculate Conception Day | December 8 | Monday | Celebrates the Virgin Mary. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Colombia’s holiday calendar reflects its strong Catholic identity and national pride. Semana Santa (Holy Week) is particularly significant, especially in cities such as Popayán and Mompox, renowned for their elaborate processions. Civic holidays like Independence Day and the Battle of Boyacá celebrate the nation’s journey toward sovereignty.
Public Observances and Closures
On public holidays, schools, banks, and government offices close nationwide. Thanks to the Emiliani Law, many holidays form long weekends, boosting domestic tourism in destinations such as Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Colombia have in 2026?
Colombia observes 18 official public holidays in 2026, making it one of the countries with the most public holidays globally.
What is the most important national holiday in Colombia?
Independence Day on July 20 is the most important civic holiday, celebrated nationwide.
Why are many holidays moved to Monday in Colombia?
Under the Emiliani Law, several holidays are officially moved to Mondays to create long weekends and promote tourism.
Does Colombia observe religious holidays?
Yes. Colombia observes several Catholic holidays, including Holy Week, Corpus Christi, and Christmas.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Colombia reflect the nation’s devotion to faith, freedom, and family life. From solemn Holy Week observances to joyful Independence Day celebrations, these holidays strengthen cultural identity and social unity.
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