Public Holidays in Spain 2026 – National & Catholic Holidays
Spain observes a rich calendar of public holidays that reflect its Catholic heritage, diverse regional traditions, and national identity. These holidays commemorate key religious feasts and historic milestones, celebrated across the country with processions, festivals, and family gatherings.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in South Sudan
Overview of Public Holidays in Spain
Public holidays in Spain include nationwide observances alongside regional and local feast days designated by each autonomous community and municipality. National days such as the Fiesta Nacional de España and religious feasts like Epiphany, Good Friday, and Christmas are widely marked, while regions add their own patron-saint and cultural celebrations.
List of Public Holidays in Spain (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo) | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the beginning of the new year. |
| Epiphany (Día de Reyes) | January 6 | Tuesday | Celebrates the visit of the Three Kings; parades and gift-giving. |
| Good Friday (Viernes Santo) | April 3 | Friday | Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Labor Day (Fiesta del Trabajo) | May 1 | Friday | Honors workers and labor rights nationwide. |
| Assumption of Mary (Asunción) | August 15 | Saturday | Catholic feast celebrating the Virgin Mary’s assumption to heaven. |
| National Day of Spain (Fiesta Nacional) | October 12 | Monday | Commemorates Spain’s national identity and historical legacy. |
| All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos los Santos) | November 1 | Sunday | Honors all saints and remembers deceased loved ones. |
| Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución) | December 6 | Sunday | Marks the 1978 Constitution; substitute day may vary by region. |
| Immaculate Conception (Inmaculada Concepción) | December 8 | Tuesday | Catholic feast honoring the Virgin Mary. |
| Christmas Day (Navidad) | December 25 | Friday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Many Spaniards plan short breaks around public holidays to explore historic cities and coastal destinations highlighted in places to visit in Spain. Travelers often combine these holidays with accommodations from curated guides such as best hotels in Spain or nearby European getaways.
List of Public Holidays in Spain (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo) | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the new year. |
| Epiphany (Día de Reyes) | January 6 | Monday | Celebrates the visit of the Three Kings. |
| Good Friday (Viernes Santo) | April 18 | Friday | Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Labor Day (Fiesta del Trabajo) | May 1 | Thursday | Honors workers and labor rights nationwide. |
| Assumption of Mary (Asunción) | August 15 | Friday | Catholic feast celebrating the Virgin Mary’s assumption. |
| National Day of Spain (Fiesta Nacional) | October 12 | Sunday | Commemorates Spain’s national identity. |
| All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos los Santos) | November 1 | Saturday | Honors all saints and remembers the deceased. |
| Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución) | December 6 | Saturday | Marks the adoption of Spain’s 1978 Constitution. |
| Immaculate Conception (Inmaculada Concepción) | December 8 | Monday | Catholic feast celebrating the Virgin Mary. |
| Christmas Day (Navidad) | December 25 | Thursday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Note: Observance and substitute Mondays may vary by autonomous community. Additional regional and local holidays are also observed across Spain.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Many Spanish holidays are rooted in Catholic tradition, including Epiphany with the famous Cabalgata de Reyes, Good Friday Holy Week processions, and Christmas celebrations. Civic holidays such as the Fiesta Nacional and Constitution Day emphasize national unity and democratic values, while regions celebrate their unique identities through local fiestas.
Public Observances and Closures
On public holidays, government offices, schools, and many businesses close nationwide. Public transport may operate on reduced schedules, and major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia host religious processions, cultural events, and festive markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Spain have in 2026?
Most regions observe up to 14 public holidays per year, combining national, regional, and local observances.
Is Epiphany a public holiday in Spain?
Yes. Epiphany on January 6 is a nationwide public holiday.
Does Spain observe Good Friday?
Yes. Good Friday is widely observed with Holy Week processions across the country.
Do holidays shift to Monday if they fall on Sunday?
In some cases, yes. Substitute days depend on the autonomous community’s official calendar.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Spain for 2026 and 2025 reflect a vibrant mix of religious tradition, historical milestones, and regional culture. From Epiphany and Holy Week to the Fiesta Nacional and Christmas, these holidays play a central role in Spanish social and cultural life.
