Public Holidays in the Czech Republic in 2025

In 2025, the Czech Republic will observe 14 public holidays. These holidays are rooted in the country’s rich cultural, historical, and religious heritage, giving citizens time to reflect, celebrate, and enjoy time off with family and friends. While many of these holidays are considered non-working days, three will fall on weekends this year.

These holidays are governed by Act No. 245/2000 Coll. on Public Holidays. They encompass a mix of secular, historical, and religious celebrations, making them an integral part of Czech culture.

Full List of Public Holidays in 2025

1. January 1 (Wednesday): Restoration Day of the Independent Czech State & New Year’s Day
   This day marks the establishment of the independent Czech Republic in 1993 and also celebrates the start of the new year. It is a time for reflection and looking forward to the year ahead.
2. April 18 (Friday): Good Friday
   A significant Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This day offers a long weekend for many Czechs.
3. April 21 (Monday): Easter Monday
   A joyful day celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Czech traditions, men and boys visit homes with willow whips, symbolizing health and vitality.
4. May 1 (Thursday): Labour Day
   Also known as May Day, this international holiday honors workers and their contributions. It’s also a celebration of springtime in Czech culture.
5. May 8 (Thursday): Victory Day
   This day commemorates the end of World War II in Europe in 1945 and the liberation of Czechoslovakia from Nazi occupation.
6. July 5 (Saturday): Saints Cyril and Methodius Day
   This holiday honors Saints Cyril and Methodius, who brought Christianity and literacy to the Slavic people in the 9th century.
7. July 6 (Sunday): Jan Hus Day
   Celebrated in memory of Jan Hus, a Czech religious reformer and national hero who was burned at the stake for his beliefs in 1415.
8. September 28 (Sunday): Czech Statehood Day
   This day commemorates St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, and celebrates Czech national identity and statehood.
9. October 28 (Tuesday): Independent Czechoslovak State Day
   This holiday marks the establishment of Czechoslovakia in 1918, an important milestone in Czech history.
10. November 17 (Monday): Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day
    This day honors the student demonstrations in 1939 against the Nazi occupation and the 1989 Velvet Revolution that ended communist rule in Czechoslovakia.
11. December 24 (Wednesday): Christmas Eve
    Traditionally, families gather to decorate the Christmas tree, enjoy a festive dinner, and prepare for the celebrations of Christmas Day.
12. December 25 (Thursday): Christmas Day
    A Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a day for family, gift-giving, and religious observances.
13. December 26 (Friday): St. Stephen’s Day
    Known as Boxing Day in some countries, this holiday commemorates the first Christian martyr and is a continuation of Christmas celebrations.

Public Holidays Calendar for 2025

Key Considerations for 2025 Holidays

1. Impact on Businesses and Services:
   Most businesses, offices, and government institutions will be closed on public holidays, but essential services like public transport may operate on a limited schedule. Retail stores and restaurants often remain open, especially in tourist areas.
2. Stock Market Closures:
   The Prague Stock Exchange and RM-SYSTÉM will be closed on public holidays, except for December 31 (New Year’s Eve), which is a regular working day.
3. Weekend Holidays:
   Since Saints Cyril and Methodius Day (July 5), Jan Hus Day (July 6), and Czech Statehood Day (September 28) fall on weekends, they will not result in additional days off for most employees.
4. Extended Weekends:
   With holidays like Good Friday (April 18) and Easter Monday (April 21), and paired weekday holidays like Christmas Eve (December 24) to St. Stephen’s Day (December 26), several long weekends are available for travel or relaxation.

Public holidays in the Czech Republic offer citizens a chance to rest, celebrate, and remember important historical and religious events. In 2025, the distribution of holidays provides a good mix of long weekends and opportunities to explore Czech traditions and culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dates present a chance to immerse yourself in the nation’s vibrant heritage.