Argentina Public Holidays
Argentina Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Argentina? All public holidays in Argentina are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Argentina employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Argentina and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Argentina, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant history, observes a number of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays celebrate religious, historical, and cultural milestones, offering citizens a chance to reflect on their national identity and spend time with family and friends. According to thefreegeography.com, public holidays in Argentina are broadly classified into national holidays, non-working holidays, and optional holidays. This guide outlines Argentina’s key public holidays, their historical or cultural significance, and associated traditions.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
New Year’s Day is a global holiday and is also observed in Argentina as a national holiday. It marks the beginning of the new calendar year.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Family Gatherings: Many Argentines celebrate New Year’s Eve with family dinners, and the festivities often carry on past midnight to welcome the new year.
- Fireworks: Fireworks displays are popular, especially in major cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario.
- Public Events: Some cities organize public concerts, parades, and outdoor celebrations.
Carnival (Dates Vary)
Carnival is celebrated two days before Ash Wednesday, leading into the Christian season of Lent. It is a time of revelry, parades, and traditional celebrations, particularly in regions such as Corrientes and Entre Ríos.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Parades and Costumes: Cities across Argentina hold colorful parades with dancers in elaborate costumes. Carnival in Gualeguaychú is one of the largest in the country, featuring samba schools and vibrant street parties.
- Water Fights: In some areas, children participate in water fights, symbolizing purification and renewal.
- Music and Dance: Music, particularly murga and candombe, is a central part of the celebrations, with performances on the streets and in public squares.
Truth and Justice Memorial Day (March 24)
Known as Día de la Memoria por la Verdad y la Justicia, this day commemorates the victims of the military dictatorship that ruled Argentina from 1976 to 1983. It is a national holiday of reflection and remembrance.
Historical Significance
- March 24, 1976, marks the day of the coup that installed a military junta, leading to a period of state terrorism known as the Dirty War. During this time, thousands of people were disappeared by the regime.
- The holiday honors the memory of the victims and promotes human rights and justice.
Observances
- Marches and Demonstrations: Large marches and gatherings take place across the country, with people carrying signs and photos of the disappeared.
- Public Ceremonies: Government officials and human rights organizations host events to honor the victims of the dictatorship.
Malvinas Day (April 2)
Día del Veterano y de los Caídos en la Guerra de Malvinas, or Malvinas Day, commemorates the Argentine soldiers who fought and died in the Falklands War in 1982.
Historical Significance
- The war was fought between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), which Argentina claims as its territory. The conflict lasted ten weeks, resulting in Argentine defeat but remains a deeply emotional issue in Argentina.
Traditions and Observances
- Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: Events are held to honor the veterans and fallen soldiers, including ceremonies at the Malvinas Memorial in Buenos Aires.
- Patriotic Speeches: Political leaders often give speeches to emphasize Argentina’s claim over the Falkland Islands.
Good Friday and Holy Thursday (Dates Vary)
Good Friday and Holy Thursday are part of the Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, marking the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Traditions and Observances
- Religious Processions: Many Argentines participate in religious processions, especially in cities like Salta and San Luis, which are known for their solemn Holy Week observances.
- Church Services: Special Masses are held, and some people observe fasting and abstinence from meat during these days.
- Tourism: Many Argentines take the opportunity to travel during the long weekend, with popular destinations including religious sites or relaxing locations like the coast.
Labour Day (May 1)
Día del Trabajador is celebrated in Argentina, as in many countries, to honor workers and the labor movement.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Union Rallies: Labour unions often organize rallies and demonstrations advocating for workers’ rights and better working conditions.
- Public Holiday: Most businesses close, and people typically enjoy the day with family and friends.
May Revolution Day (May 25)
Día de la Revolución de Mayo celebrates the May Revolution of 1810, which led to the establishment of the first Argentine government and the beginning of the country’s path to independence from Spain.
Historical Significance
- The revolution began with a series of events known as the Semana de Mayo (May Week), culminating in the formation of the Primera Junta (First Assembly) on May 25, 1810.
- This was the first step toward Argentina’s independence, which was officially declared on July 9, 1816.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Military Parades: Parades featuring the Argentine military are held across the country, with the largest one in Buenos Aires.
- Flag-Raising Ceremonies: Public ceremonies often include the raising of the Argentine flag and speeches reflecting on the country’s history and values.
Flag Day (June 20)
Día de la Bandera honors the Argentine flag and its creator, Manuel Belgrano, a key figure in the country’s fight for independence.
Historical Significance
- June 20 marks the anniversary of Manuel Belgrano’s death in 1820. He was a military leader and lawyer who designed the national flag of Argentina.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Ceremony in Rosario: The largest Flag Day ceremony takes place in Rosario, where the National Flag Memorial is located. Government officials, military personnel, and citizens attend to honor Belgrano’s legacy.
- Patriotic Displays: Schools and organizations often hold flag-raising events and patriotic activities.
Independence Day (July 9)
Día de la Independencia commemorates the declaration of Argentina’s independence from Spain on July 9, 1816.
Historical Significance
- The independence declaration was signed at the Congress of Tucumán, marking the formal beginning of Argentina’s sovereignty.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Military Parades: Argentina’s Independence Day is marked with parades featuring military bands, cavalry units, and displays of national pride.
- Public Events: Public celebrations include concerts, speeches, and cultural performances, especially in San Miguel de Tucumán, where the declaration was signed.
- Patriotic Food: Traditional foods like locro (a hearty stew) are enjoyed by families during the celebrations.
Death of San Martín (August 17)
Día del Libertador General José de San Martín honors José de San Martín, one of Argentina’s most revered national heroes, who played a key role in South America’s independence from Spanish rule.
Historical Significance
- San Martín led military campaigns that secured independence for Argentina, Chile, and Peru. His strategic leadership and vision earned him the title of “Liberator of Argentina.”
Observances
- Ceremonies: Tributes and ceremonies are held at Plaza San Martín in Buenos Aires, where a statue of San Martín stands.
- Public Speeches: Government officials deliver speeches to honor San Martín’s contributions to Argentina’s freedom.
Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity (October 12)
Previously known as Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, this holiday has been renamed Día del Respeto a la Diversidad Cultural to emphasize respect for the cultural diversity of Argentina’s indigenous populations.
Historical Significance
- October 12 marks the day when Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas in 1492, but in Argentina, it has evolved into a day of reflection on the rights and heritage of indigenous peoples.
Observances
- Cultural Events: Events focus on recognizing the contributions of indigenous communities to Argentine society.
- Educational Programs: Schools and institutions often hold discussions and programs to promote cultural understanding and respect for diversity.
Immaculate Conception (December 8)
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a religious holiday observed by the Catholic Church to honor the Virgin Mary’s immaculate conception, free from original sin.
Religious Significance
- December 8 is a day of solemnity and worship for Catholics, who believe in the purity of the Virgin Mary from the moment of her conception.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Church Services: Masses and religious services are held across Argentina, with many people attending special prayers dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
- Christmas Preparations: In Argentina, this holiday often marks the beginning of the Christmas season, with families starting to set up nativity scenes and decorations.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas Day is celebrated across Argentina as a national holiday, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. While it is a religious holiday, it is widely observed even by non-religious families.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Midnight Mass: Many Argentines attend Misa de Gallo (Midnight Mass) on Christmas Eve, followed by family gatherings and a festive meal.
- Gift-Giving## Argentina Public Holidays
Argentina celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year, commemorating significant historical events, religious observances, and cultural festivities. These holidays serve as moments of national reflection and opportunities for family gatherings and social events. Argentina’s public holidays can be classified into national holidays, non-working holidays, and optional holidays, with certain celebrations being universally observed, while others hold regional or specific cultural importance.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
New Year’s Day is a global holiday observed in Argentina to mark the beginning of the calendar year.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Family Gatherings: Many families celebrate with dinners and parties that last well past midnight.
- Fireworks Displays: Fireworks light up the sky in cities and towns across the country.
- Public Festivities: In major cities like Buenos Aires, there are public events, concerts, and street celebrations.
Carnival (Dates Vary)
Carnival is a festive event celebrated two days before Ash Wednesday and signals the beginning of the Christian Lenten season. It is especially popular in the provinces of Corrientes and Entre Ríos, where celebrations reach their peak.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Colorful Parades: Processions featuring dancers, elaborate costumes, and floats are central to Carnival celebrations, particularly in cities like Gualeguaychú.
- Music and Dance: Street performances with traditional candombe and samba rhythms energize the crowd.
- Water Fights: Some regions, especially in northern Argentina, feature playful water fights among children.
Truth and Justice Memorial Day (March 24)
This day commemorates the victims of Argentina’s Dirty War, a period of state terrorism from 1976 to 1983, during the military dictatorship.
Historical Significance
- The day honors the disappeared (desaparecidos), those who were kidnapped, tortured, and killed by the regime.
- It promotes awareness of human rights violations and the importance of justice.
Observances
- Marches and Protests: Human rights groups, such as Madres de Plaza de Mayo, lead marches to demand justice and remembrance for the victims.
- Official Speeches: Government leaders and civil society representatives address the public to reflect on the period’s lasting impacts.
Malvinas Day (April 2)
Malvinas Day honors the soldiers who fought and died in the Falklands War between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1982.
Historical Significance
- The war remains a sensitive issue, as Argentina continues to claim sovereignty over the Malvinas (Falkland Islands).
Traditions and Observances
- Memorial Services: Events are held in cities and towns to remember the soldiers who perished, including wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials.
- Patriotic Events: Military parades and patriotic speeches highlight the ongoing importance of the Malvinas issue in Argentine society.
Good Friday and Holy Thursday (Dates Vary)
These days are part of Semana Santa (Holy Week) and commemorate the Passion of Christ. They are important religious holidays in Argentina.
Traditions and Observances
- Processions: In many towns and cities, solemn processions reenact the crucifixion of Christ.
- Religious Services: Churches hold special services, and some people fast in observance of the holy days.
Labour Day (May 1)
Labour Day, or Día del Trabajador, celebrates workers and their contributions to society.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Union Rallies: Labour unions organize rallies and protests, advocating for better working conditions.
- Day Off: Most businesses and offices close, and many workers spend the day with their families or participate in social events.
May Revolution Day (May 25)
May 25 is celebrated as Día de la Revolución de Mayo, commemorating the May Revolution of 1810, which marked the start of Argentina’s journey toward independence from Spain.
Historical Significance
- The revolution set the foundation for Argentina’s eventual independence, declared in 1816.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Parades and Flag-Raising: Public squares host military parades, with large gatherings in Buenos Aires at the Plaza de Mayo.
- Patriotic Displays: Schools and organizations participate in cultural performances, emphasizing national pride.
Flag Day (June 20)
Flag Day celebrates the creation of the Argentine flag by Manuel Belgrano in 1812. It also honors Belgrano’s death on June 20, 1820.
Historical Significance
- Manuel Belgrano is revered as a national hero for his contributions to Argentina’s independence.
Observances
- Ceremonies in Rosario: The largest ceremony takes place at the National Flag Memorial in Rosario, where the Argentine flag was first raised.
- Patriotic Songs and Speeches: Public events feature performances of the national anthem and speeches honoring Belgrano’s legacy.
Independence Day (July 9)
July 9 celebrates Argentina’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1816.
Historical Significance
- The declaration was signed at the Congress of Tucumán, solidifying Argentina’s status as an independent nation.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Parades and Celebrations: The day is marked with parades, speeches, and cultural performances across the country, especially in San Miguel de Tucumán.
- Family Gatherings: Families come together to celebrate with traditional dishes like empanadas and locro.
Death of San Martín (August 17)
This holiday commemorates the death of José de San Martín, a leader of South America’s fight for independence from Spain.
Historical Significance
- San Martín played a key role in Argentina’s independence and in liberating Chile and Peru.
Observances
- Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: These are held at statues and monuments dedicated to San Martín, particularly in Plaza San Martín in Buenos Aires.
- Public Tributes: Political leaders and citizens pay homage to San Martín’s contributions to Argentina’s freedom.
Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity (October 12)
Previously known as Columbus Day, this holiday has been renamed to honor Argentina’s cultural diversity and promote respect for its indigenous peoples.
Historical Significance
- October 12 marks the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas, but the focus has shifted to recognizing the struggles and contributions of indigenous communities.
Observances
- Cultural Celebrations: Events celebrate the multicultural identity of Argentina, focusing on indigenous and Afro-Argentine heritage.
- Educational Programs: Schools and organizations promote awareness of Argentina’s diverse history and advocate for cultural respect and inclusion.
Immaculate Conception (December 8)
This religious holiday honors the Virgin Mary and is an important day for the Catholic community in Argentina.
Religious Significance
- The Feast of the Immaculate Conception celebrates the belief in the Virgin Mary’s immaculate conception, free from original sin.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Church Services: Special masses are held, and many people attend religious processions.
- Beginning of the Christmas Season: This day often marks the start of Christmas preparations, including the setting up of Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is a national holiday in Argentina.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Midnight Mass: Many Argentines attend midnight mass on Nochebuena (Christmas Eve).
- Family Feasts: Families gather for large meals, which include traditional Argentine dishes such as asado (barbecue) and panettone for dessert.
- Gift-Giving: It is customary to exchange gifts with loved ones on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
