Public Holidays in Latvia 2026 – National & Public Holidays
Latvia observes several national public holidays each year, blending Christian traditions, national identity, and cultural festivals. Some holidays are fixed by law, while others (such as Easter-related observances) move according to the ecclesiastical calendar. When a holiday falls on a weekend, an in-lieu day may be granted.
Overview of Public Holidays in Latvia
Latvia’s public holidays include Christian observances (Good Friday, Easter, Christmas), national holidays (Restoration of Independence Day, Proclamation Day), traditional midsummer festivals (Līgo / Jāņi), and year-end celebrations. These holidays reflect Latvia’s religious heritage, folk traditions, and national history.
List of Public Holidays in Latvia (2026)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day (Jaungads) | Fixed public holiday |
| April 3 | Friday | Good Friday (Lielā Piektdiena) | Christian observance before Easter |
| April 6 | Monday | Easter Monday (Otrās Lieldienas) | Following Easter Sunday |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day / May Day | Includes Constituent Assembly commemoration |
| May 4 | Monday | Restoration of Independence Day | Observed on fixed date in 2026 |
| June 23 | Tuesday | Midsummer’s Eve (Līgo) | Traditional solstice celebration |
| June 24 | Wednesday | St. John’s Day (Jāņi) | Midsummer holiday |
| November 18 | Wednesday | Republic of Latvia Proclamation Day | Independence proclamation (1918) |
| December 24 | Thursday | Christmas Eve | Public holiday |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Major Christian holiday |
| December 26 | Saturday | Second Day of Christmas | Observed on fixed date |
| December 31 | Thursday | New Year’s Eve | Year-end public holiday |
Popular holiday periods such as Līgo / Jāņi and Christmas are ideal times to explore places to visit in Latvia or plan festive stays at recommended hotels in Latvia.
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 | Christian observance |
| April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday | Following Easter |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day | Includes Constituent Assembly |
| May 4 | Sunday | Restoration of Independence Day | Observed May 5 |
| May 5 | Monday | Independence Restoration (in-lieu) | Compensatory day |
| June 23 | Monday | Līgo | Midsummer Eve |
| June 24 | Tuesday | Jāņi | Midsummer Day |
| November 18 | Tuesday | Proclamation Day | Independence proclamation |
| December 24 | Wednesday | Christmas Eve | Public holiday |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Christian holiday |
| December 26 | Friday | Second Day of Christmas | Continuation |
| December 31 | Wednesday | New Year’s Eve | Year-end holiday |
Notes & Observations
• If a fixed-date holiday falls on a Sunday, an in-lieu holiday is usually observed on Monday.
• Līgo and Jāņi are among Latvia’s most culturally significant holidays.
• May 1 combines Labour Day with the commemoration of the Constituent Assembly.
• Christmas and New Year holidays create an extended year-end break in many sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Latvia have in 2026?
Latvia observes 12 national public holidays in 2026, including Christian, national, and cultural observances.
What are Līgo and Jāņi celebrations?
Līgo (June 23) and Jāņi (June 24) celebrate the summer solstice with traditional folk rituals, bonfires, songs, and nature symbolism.
Is Good Friday a public holiday in Latvia?
Yes. Good Friday, observed before Easter Sunday, is an official public holiday in Latvia.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Latvia reflect a blend of Christian faith, national independence, and folk heritage. From the symbolic Restoration of Independence to the vibrant midsummer Līgo / Jāņi celebrations, these holidays shape communal life throughout the year.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in Laos
