Public Holidays in Guatemala 2025 – National & Religious Calendar
Guatemala observes a combination of national, religious (Christian), and municipal holidays. On these days, government offices, banks, and many businesses close. Some observances — such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve — are treated as half-day holidays.
Overview of Public Holidays in Guatemala
The Guatemalan Labor Code recognizes several statutory public holidays (“días de asueto”) that require paid leave. Many holidays have fixed dates (e.g., Independence Day), while Holy Week (Maundy Thursday through Easter) shifts each year. Some observances apply only locally (such as Assumption Day in Guatemala City).
List of Public Holidays in Guatemala (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo) | January 1 | Wednesday | Full national holiday |
| Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo) | April 17 | Thursday | Part of Holy Week observances |
| Good Friday (Viernes Santo) | April 18 | Friday | Christian solemn day |
| Holy Saturday (Sábado de Gloria) | April 19 | Saturday | Holy Week observance |
| Easter Monday (Lunes de Pascua) | April 21 | Monday | Holiday after Easter Sunday |
| Labour Day (Día del Trabajo) | May 1 | Thursday | National workers’ holiday |
| Army Day (Día del Ejército) | June 30 | Monday | Commemoration of armed forces |
| Assumption of Mary * | August 15 | Friday | Observed only in Guatemala City |
| Independence Day | September 15 | Monday | Celebration of independence from Spain |
| Revolution Day | October 20 | Monday | Commemorates the 1944 revolution |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Christian remembrance holiday |
| Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) | December 24 | Wednesday | Half-day holiday (usually after midday) |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Full Christian holiday |
| New Year’s Eve (Víspera de Año Nuevo) | December 31 | Wednesday | Half-day holiday |
Note: Assumption Day (Aug 15) is a public holiday only in Guatemala City.
Public Observance & Closures
On national public holidays, most government institutions, banks, and many private offices close. On half-day holidays such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, business operations typically end by midday. Local observances may also include municipal closures or processions.
Religious & Cultural Significance
Guatemala’s calendar reflects deep Christian roots, especially during Holy Week, which is marked by processions, vigils, and community worship. National holidays like Independence Day and Revolution Day highlight civic pride and political history. All Saints’ Day is distinctly cultural, featuring cemetery visits, traditional foods, and kite festivals in some regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Guatemala have in 2025?
Guatemala has about 13 statutory public holidays in 2025, including full and half-day holidays.
Are half-day holidays common in Guatemala?
Yes. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are observed as half-day holidays, typically starting from midday.
Is the Assumption holiday nationwide?
No. Assumption Day (August 15) is celebrated only in Guatemala City as a municipal holiday.
Which Christian holidays are part of Holy Week?
Holy Week includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Monday, all of which are public holidays in Guatemala.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Guatemala reflect a mix of Christian observance, national history, and municipal traditions. From Holy Week to Independence Day and seasonal half-day closures, these observances shape the country’s cultural and civic calendar each year.
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