Public Holidays in Cyprus 2026 – Orthodox, National & Public Holidays
Cyprus marks a blend of national, Orthodox Christian, and cultural holidays each year. These public holidays reflect the island’s Greek heritage, religious traditions, and historical milestones. Many Cypriots gather in churches for religious observances, while national days see parades, speeches, and public ceremonies across Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and beyond.
Overview of Public Holidays in Cyprus
The holiday calendar of Cyprus includes national commemorations and Orthodox Christian observances. Since the majority of Greek Cypriots observe the Eastern Orthodox Church, holidays like Orthodox Easter and Good Friday are significant. National days, such as Independence Day and Ochi Day, pay tribute to Cypriot sovereignty and historical events. Most businesses, schools, and public institutions close on these days.
List of Public Holidays in Cyprus (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Start of the Gregorian year. |
| Epiphany / Theophany | January 6 | Tuesday | Celebrates the baptism of Jesus. |
| Clean Monday (Green Monday) | February 23 | Monday | First day of Lent in Orthodox tradition. |
| Greek Independence Day | March 25 | Wednesday | Commemorates Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule. |
| National Day (EOKA Day) | April 1 | Wednesday | Commemorates the beginning of the anti-colonial EOKA campaign. |
| Orthodox Good Friday | April 10 | Friday | Commemorates Christ’s crucifixion (Orthodox calendar). |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | April 13 | Monday | Celebrates the resurrection of Christ. |
| Labour Day / May Day | May 1 | Friday | Honors workers and labor rights. |
| Orthodox Pentecost Monday (Kataklysmos) | June 1 | Monday | Also known locally as Kataklysmos — the Flood Festival. |
| Assumption (Dormition of the Virgin Mary) | August 15 | Saturday | Celebrates the assumption of Mary into heaven. |
| Cyprus Independence Day | October 1 | Thursday | Marks Cyprus’ independence from British rule. |
| Ochi Day / Greek National Day | October 28 | Wednesday | Commemorates Greek refusal to yield to Italian ultimatum (WWII era). |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Christian celebration of Jesus’ birth. |
| Boxing Day / Second Day of Christmas | December 26 | Saturday | Second day of Christmas holiday. |
List of Public Holidays in Cyprus (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Start of the Gregorian year. |
| Epiphany / Theophany | January 6 | Monday | Celebrates the baptism of Jesus. |
| Clean Monday (Green Monday) | March 3 | Monday | First day of Lent in Orthodox tradition. |
| Greek Independence Day | March 25 | Tuesday | Commemorates Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule. |
| National Day (EOKA Day) | April 1 | Tuesday | Commemorates the beginning of the anti-colonial EOKA campaign. |
| Orthodox Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Commemorates Christ’s crucifixion (Orthodox calendar). |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Celebrates the resurrection of Christ. |
| Labour Day / May Day | May 1 | Thursday | Honors workers and labor rights. |
| Orthodox Pentecost Monday (Kataklysmos) | June 9 | Monday | Also known locally as Kataklysmos — the Flood Festival. |
| Assumption (Dormition of the Virgin Mary) | August 15 | Friday | Celebrates the assumption of Mary into heaven. |
| Cyprus Independence Day | October 1 | Wednesday | Marks Cyprus’ independence from British rule. |
| Ochi Day / Greek National Day | October 28 | Tuesday | Commemorates Greek refusal to yield to Italian ultimatum (WWII era). |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian celebration of Jesus’ birth. |
| Boxing Day / Second Day of Christmas | December 26 | Friday | Second day of Christmas holiday. |
Note: Some holidays like Holy Saturday or Easter Sunday are observed by church congregations, but may not always be public holidays for all sectors. Also, bank holidays sometimes include additional days surrounding Easter for banking operations.
Religious & Cultural Significance
In Cyprus, Orthodox Christianity plays a central role in holidays. The period around Easter—Good Friday through Easter Monday—is one of the most important times for liturgy and family gatherings. Festivals such as Kataklysmos (Pentecost Monday) combine religious observance with local cultural festivities. National holidays like EOKA Day and Independence Day reflect Cyprus’ struggles for self-determination and pride in its modern national identity.
Public Observances & Closures
On public holidays, government buildings, schools, banks, and many businesses close across Cyprus. In major cities like Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, parades, church services, and community events are held. Some holidays, especially those tied to religious practice, may see extended closure of local shops and reduced public transport schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Cyprus have?
Cyprus generally observes around 14–15 public holidays each year, spanning religious and national commemorations.
What is Kataklysmos?
Kataklysmos refers to the Orthodox Pentecost Monday in Cyprus and is also known locally as the “Flood Festival,” celebrated with riverside events and folk traditions.
When is Cyprus Independence Day?
Independence Day is observed on October 1, marking the end of British colonial rule over Cyprus.
Are all church holidays public holidays?
Not always. While major Orthodox holidays like Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, other observances may be observed by churches but not mandated nationally.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Cyprus reflect a mix of religious devotion, national pride, and cultural traditions. From Easter and Kataklysmos to Independence Day and Ochi Day, these observances unite Cypriots in faith, reflection, and commemoration of their heritage and identity.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in Cuba
