We are currently approaching the New Year and have compiled a list of all public holidays and observances in Portugal, so you can prepare for the upcoming year, especially for long weekends or quick getaways. Portugal has two types of holidays: compulsory public holidays and optional/regional holidays.
Compulsory public holidays are official and nationally recognized holidays with a historical or religious background. Optional and regional holidays vary by area and are decided by local councils.
As a country with many culturally significant and religious dates, Portugal has legally recognized national public holidays. On these days, many shops, businesses, and public services close as workers take time off. These holidays are a combination of celebrations of dates with historical or cultural significance, as well as Roman Catholic religious days.
There are several Portuguese public holidays, known as feriados. Unlike in other countries, if a holiday falls on a Sunday, it is not taken on the next Monday. Take note of the confirmed public holidays across Portugal:
- 1st January – New Year’s Day
- 7th April – Good Friday
- 9th April – Easter Sunday
- 25th April – Liberty Day
- 1st May – Workers’ Day
- 10th June – Day of Portugal, Camões and Portuguese Communities
- 8th June – Corpus Christi
- 15th August – Assumption Day
- 5th October – Implantation of the Republic
- 1st November – All Saints’ Day
- 1st December – Independence Restoration Day
- 8th December – Feast of the Immaculate Conception
- 25th December – Christmas Day
Carnival is an optional or additional holiday, which is usually widely accepted as a day off but depends on each local council’s decision.
The municipal public holidays in Portugal may vary depending on the municipality. For example, in June, there is the celebration of three Patron Saints – Santos Populares – and several cities and/or councils recognize their festivities as a public municipal holiday. In Lisbon, the date is 13th June and celebrates Saint Anthony, the patron saint of the city. In Porto, Saint John is celebrated on 24th June, and in Sintra, the council celebrates Saint Peter on 29th June.
The New Year presents a fresh start on the calendar and is full of hope and potential. It is the perfect time to reflect on the previous year’s events and plan goals for the next. We wish you and your loved ones health and happiness in the upcoming year, wherever your life takes you.
