Public Holidays in Latvia 2025
Latvia observes several national public holidays each year, blending Christian traditions, national identity, and cultural festivals. Some holidays are fixed by law (e.g., New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Christmas), while others (e.g., Easter) move according to the ecclesiastical calendar. When a holiday falls on a weekend, it is often moved to a nearby weekday.
Overview of Public Holidays in Latvia
Public holidays in Latvia include Christian observances (Good Friday, Easter, Christmas), national holidays (Restoration of Independence Day, Proclamation Day), summer solstice festivals (Līgo / Jāņi), and New Year / year-end holidays. When a holiday coincides with a weekend, an “in-lieu” holiday is often declared on a Monday.
List of Public Holidays in Latvia (2025)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day (Jaungads) | Fixed holiday |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday (Lielā Piektdiena) | Christian observance before Easter |
| April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday (Otrās Lieldienas) | Following Easter Sunday |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day / May Day (Darba svētki & Constituent Assembly Convocation) | National holiday; includes convocation commemoration |
| May 4 | Sunday | Restoration of Independence Day | If on weekend, observed May 5 |
| May 5 | Monday | Independence Restoration (in-lieu) | Observed because May 4 falls on Sunday |
| June 23 | Monday | Midsummer’s Eve (Līgo) | Summer solstice festival eve |
| June 24 | Tuesday | St. John’s Day (Jāņi) | Summer solstice celebration |
| November 18 | Tuesday | Republic of Latvia Proclamation Day / Independence Day | Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia in 1918 |
| December 24 | Wednesday | Christmas Eve (Ziemassvētku vakars) | Gift-giving evening, public holiday |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day (Ziemassvētki) | Major Christian holiday |
| December 26 | Friday | Second Day of Christmas (Otrie Ziemassvētki) | Continuation of Christmas celebrations |
| December 31 | Wednesday | New Year’s Eve (Vecgada vakars) | Year’s end holiday |
Notes & Observations
• When a fixed-date holiday such as Restoration of Independence (May 4) falls on a Sunday, the following Monday (May 5) is observed as a holiday.
• The convocation of the Constituent Assembly is commemorated on May 1, overlapping with Labour Day.
• The midsummer celebrations Līgo / Jāņi are deeply rooted in Latvian folk tradition and are among the most cultural public holidays.
• The 2025 official public holidays are: Jan 1; Apr 18; Apr 21; May 1; May 4; Jun 23; Jun 24; Nov 18; Dec 24; Dec 25; Dec 26; Dec 31.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Latvia have in 2025?
Latvia has 12 national public holidays in 2025, including Christian, national, and cultural observances.
Is Restoration of Independence always on May 4?
Yes. Latvia’s Restoration of Independence is observed on May 4. If May 4 falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed the next Monday (May 5).
What are Līgo and Jāņi celebrations?
Līgo (Midsummer’s Eve, June 23) and Jāņi (St. John’s Day, June 24) celebrate the summer solstice with traditional Latvian folk rituals—bonfires, singing, and nature ceremonies.
Does Good Friday count as a public holiday in Latvia?
Yes. Good Friday (the Friday before Easter) is officially recognized as a public holiday in Latvia.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Latvia reflect a blend of Christian traditions, national identity, and folk heritage. From the solemn observance of independence and religious holidays to the jubilant midsummer Līgo / Jāņi celebrations, these public holidays structure communal life and national culture in Latvia every year.
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