Public holidays in Germany

In short: Germany has nationwide and regional statutory public holidays. The number varies between nine and thirteen depending on the federal state.

In more detail: Nationwide these include New Year, Good Friday, Easter Monday, 1 May, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, 3 October and the Christmas days.

In detail

• Regional holidays: Epiphany, Corpus Christi, Reformation Day, All Saints’ Day and Repentance Day in individual states.
• Movable holidays: Depend on the date of Easter.
• German Unity Day: 3 October, since 1990.
• Labour law: On statutory holidays there is a right to continued pay (bundesurlaubsgesetz).
• Bridge days: Between a holiday and the weekend, often used with leave.
• Silent holidays: Restricted dance events, for example Good Friday.
• Tip: Consider holidays when planning trips (zeitzonen-und-kalenderfallen).