Public & National Holidays in Portugal
Public and national holidays being celebrated in Portugal consists of a mix of national holidays that mark important historical events of the region, along with a majority of Christian festivals.
Instructions
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1
Holidays in January
1st – New Year’s Day
The date marks the start of New Year according the Gregorian Calendar and is celebrated around the world. -
2
Holidays in February
24th – Carnival
The Carnival in Portugal is an important annual festival that’s celebrated throughout the country. It resembles the Brazilian’s version of Carnival. -
3
Holidays in March
29th – Good Friday
It was on this day when Jesus Christ was crucified at Calvary. It’s an important day for the Christian faithful and is declared as official holiday by the state.
31st – Easter Sunday
This date marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his death by crucifixion at Calvary. The date is subjected to change every year as it’s not based on the Gregorian calendar. -
4
Holidays in May
1st – Labour Day
This date commemorates the achievements of workers all around the world.
30th – Corpus Christi
A great feast is held on this day to celebrate 60 days after Jesus Christ was resurrected on Easter Sunday. The date can vary from year to year, as it’s based on the days, rather than the dates. -
5
Holidays in June
10th – Portugal Day
The date commemorates the passing away of Portuguese national poet, Luis de Camoes, who is also credited with writing Portugal’s national anthem. The poems of Camoes are considered inspirational by the citizens, as well as being compared to some of the greatest writers in history, including Homer, Dante and Shakespeare. -
6
Holidays in August
15th – Assumption
According to Christian faithful, it was on this day that Virgin Mary was taken up into the heavens. -
7
Holidays in October
5th - Republic Day
This date marks the abolishment of monarchy in the country, along with the creation of a free republic. -
8
Holidays in November
1st – All Saints Day
It’s a tradition Christian holiday which is celebrated to pay tribute to all of the Christian Saints. A great feast is held in honour of these saints, along with prayers in several Christian communities. Notable Christians Saints include St. Peter and St. Paul. -
9
Holidays in December
1st – Restoration of Independence
The date commemorates the ending of the Spanish rule over the Portuguese. It was on this day when the Portuguese declared themselves liberated from their monarchs, then led by the Philippine Dynasty.
8th – Immaculate Conception
According to the Roman Catholic Church, it’s the day when the conception of Virgin Mary without any sin or wrongful act took place, which eventually led to the birth of Jesus Christ.
25th – Christmas Day
It’s an important Christian festival that’s observed to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
