Public Holidays in Nicaragua 2026 – National & Cultural Holidays
Nicaragua observes a number of national public holidays each year, rooted in religious tradition, revolutionary history, and national identity. Christian observances such as Holy Week and Christmas coexist with civic holidays like Independence Day and the Sandinista Revolution anniversary.
Travel Tip: Semana Santa (Holy Week) and September independence celebrations are peak travel periods. Visitors often plan coastal or colonial-city trips using guides from places to visit in Nicaragua, with accommodation options available via best hotels in Nicaragua.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in New Zealand
National Public Holidays in Nicaragua (2026)
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Public holiday nationwide |
| April 2 | Thursday | Maundy Thursday | Holy Week (Semana Santa) |
| April 3 | Friday | Good Friday | Major Christian observance |
| April 4 | Saturday | Holy Saturday | Holy Week closures common |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day | International Workers’ Day |
| July 19 | Sunday | Sandinista Revolution Day | Commemorates 1979 revolution victory |
| September 14 | Monday | Battle of San Jacinto Day | Historic 1856 military victory |
| September 15 | Tuesday | Independence Day | Independence from Spain (1821) |
| December 8 | Tuesday | Feast of the Immaculate Conception | La Purísima (Catholic festival) |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Christian holiday |
National Public Holidays in Nicaragua (2025)
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Public holiday nationwide |
| April 17 | Thursday | Maundy Thursday | Part of Holy Week (Semana Santa) |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday | Major Christian observance |
| April 19 | Saturday | Holy Saturday | Observed during Easter weekend |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day | International Workers’ Day |
| July 19 | Saturday | Sandinista Revolution Day | Marks 1979 revolution victory |
| September 14 | Sunday | Battle of San Jacinto Day | Commemorates 1856 victory |
| September 15 | Monday | Independence Day | Independence from Spain (1821) |
| December 8 | Monday | Feast of the Immaculate Conception | La Purísima |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Christian holiday |
Religious Observance Notes
- Holy Week (Semana Santa) is among the most significant periods of the year, with nationwide closures and religious processions.
- La Purísima on December 8 is one of Nicaragua’s most culturally important Catholic celebrations.
- Municipalities may observe additional local patron-saint festivals that are not national holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Nicaragua have in 2026?
Nicaragua observes around 10 national public holidays in 2026, with additional local and religious observances.
Does Nicaragua observe Holy Week as public holidays?
Yes. Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday are widely observed nationwide.
What is the most important civic holiday in Nicaragua?
Independence Day on September 15 is Nicaragua’s most important civic holiday.
What is La Purísima?
La Purísima is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception held on December 8, featuring altars, songs, and public celebrations.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Nicaragua reflect deep religious devotion and national history. From Holy Week and Independence Day to La Purísima and Christmas, these observances shape the country’s cultural and social calendar each year.
