Public Holidays in Germany in 2024
Germany, a country rich in history, culture, and tradition, observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect both religious and secular significance, and they play an important role in the lives of the German people. In 2024, Germany will celebrate several public holidays, each with its own unique customs and observances.
National Holidays
New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) – January 1st
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is celebrated with parties, fireworks, and gatherings with family and friends. Many Germans attend church services or participate in cultural events to welcome the new year.
Good Friday (Karfreitag) – Date varies (Christian calendar)
Good Friday is observed by Christians worldwide as the day of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death. In Germany, it is a public holiday, and many people attend church services or participate in religious processions and rituals.
Easter Monday (Ostermontag) – Date varies (Christian calendar)
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and is observed as a public holiday in Germany. It is a time for family gatherings, Easter egg hunts, and festive meals. Many people also attend church services to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) – May 1st
Labour Day in Germany is a public holiday dedicated to workers’ rights and social justice. It is marked by rallies, marches, and demonstrations organized by trade unions and political parties. Many people also take the opportunity to relax and enjoy leisure activities with family and friends.
Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) – Date varies (Christian calendar)
Ascension Day, also known as Christi Himmelfahrt, commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, according to Christian belief. It is celebrated 40 days after Easter Sunday and is a public holiday in Germany. Many people attend church services and spend time outdoors, enjoying the spring weather.
Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) – Date varies (Christian calendar)
Whit Monday, also known as Pfingstmontag, is observed 50 days after Easter Sunday. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the birth of the Christian Church. In Germany, it is a public holiday that is often associated with outdoor activities, picnics, and family gatherings.
German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) – October 3rd
German Unity Day commemorates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. It is a national holiday in Germany, celebrated with official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events. The day serves as a reminder of the country’s history and the importance of unity and reconciliation.
Christmas Day (Weihnachtstag) – December 25th
Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important Christian holidays worldwide. In Germany, it is a time for religious observance, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. People decorate their homes with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments, and exchange gifts with loved ones.
Second Christmas Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) – December 26th
Second Christmas Day, also known as Boxing Day, is observed in several countries, including Germany. It is a public holiday that provides an additional day for relaxation and spending time with family and friends after the busy festivities of Christmas Day.
Table of Public Holidays and Days Off
| Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Good Friday | Variable | 1 | Christians |
| Easter Monday | Variable | 1 | All (especially Christians) |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 | All |
| Ascension Day | Variable | 1 | Christians |
| Whit Monday | Variable | 1 | All (especially Christians) |
| German Unity Day | October 3 | 1 | All |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 | All (especially Christians) |
| Second Christmas Day | December 26 | 1 | All |