Public Holidays in Israel 2025 – Jewish, National & Observances
Israel recognizes a mix of Jewish religious holidays, national/state holidays, and observance days. Many of these are derived from the Hebrew calendar, so their Gregorian dates shift each year. Some holidays are statutory days off; others are commemorations without full closures.
Overview of Israel’s Public Holidays
Israel does not operate a single universal “public holiday” law like some countries; instead, major Jewish religious holidays are treated as national holidays, with government offices, banks, schools, and many businesses closing. Modern state holidays such as Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day) and Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day) are also observed nationally.
Key Public Holidays & Observances in Israel (2025)
| Date | Day | Holiday / Observance | Notes / Observance Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 13 | Sunday | Passover (Pesach, Day 1) | National holiday / religious festival |
| April 19 | Saturday | Passover (Last Day) | National holiday |
| April 30 | Wednesday | Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day) | State memorial day |
| May 1 | Thursday | Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day) | National holiday |
| June 2 | Monday | Shavuot | National holiday / Jewish festival |
| September 23 | Tuesday | Rosh Hashanah (Day 1) | Jewish New Year / national holiday |
| September 24 | Wednesday | Rosh Hashanah (Day 2) | National holiday |
| October 2 | Thursday | Yom Kippur | Day of Atonement / full closure nationwide |
| October 7 | Tuesday | Sukkot (Day 1) | Festival / national holiday |
| October 14 | Tuesday | Simchat Torah | Conclusion of festival cycle / national holiday |
Other observances include Purim, Lag BaOmer, Tu BiShvat, Yom HaAliyah, Herzl Day, Ben-Gurion Day, and fast days. These may not involve full closures across all sectors.
Notes & Observations
- Jewish holidays begin at sundown the previous evening and end at nightfall the next day.
- The Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, so Gregorian dates shift annually.
- Some holidays are statutory and widely observed; others are symbolic.
- The weekly Shabbat (Friday sunset–Saturday sunset) also brings widespread closures.
- Modern state holidays supplement the religious calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many holidays does Israel have in 2025?
Israel has many religious and national observances; a subset of these are full public holidays with closures.
Are all Jewish holidays public holidays?
No. Major holidays (Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shavuot) are public holidays, but others (e.g. Purim) may not close all services.
Do the dates change every year?
Yes. Because the Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, the dates shift annually in the Gregorian calendar.
What is Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut?
Yom HaZikaron is Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism; Yom HaAtzmaut is Independence Day. They are observed on consecutive days.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Israel reflect the intertwining of religion, national heritage, and state identity. From Passover and Shavuot to modern state observances and memorial days, these holidays shape the national rhythm throughout the year.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in Ireland
