Liechtenstein Public Holidays
Liechtenstein Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Liechtenstein? All public holidays in Liechtenstein are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Liechtenstein employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Liechtenstein and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Description
New Year’s Day in Liechtenstein, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. This day is a public holiday, observed with family gatherings, social events, and a variety of cultural activities. It is a day of celebration and reflection for many citizens of Liechtenstein, as they welcome in the new year and say goodbye to the old.
The day is often marked by formal dinners, family get-togethers, and the setting of personal goals and resolutions for the coming year. In the capital, Vaduz, there are sometimes special events, including concerts and fireworks. The day is also an occasion for some people to attend church services to pray for good fortune in the year ahead.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Epiphany (January 6)
Description
Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, particularly the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus. This day is of significant religious importance in Liechtenstein, particularly for the Catholic population.
On Epiphany, people attend church services to mark the occasion, with special prayers and hymns. Many families also gather for festive meals, and it is common for people to exchange small gifts, particularly in the southern parts of Liechtenstein. Epiphany marks the end of the Christmas season and is a day of both reflection and celebration in the country.
Duration
Epiphany is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Catholics.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Easter Monday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday, and it is celebrated as part of the Easter holiday in Liechtenstein. Easter Monday is a day of joy and celebration, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This holiday is observed by Christians in Liechtenstein and is an important day for reflection and religious observance.
In Liechtenstein, Easter Monday is often a day for family and community gatherings. People visit family members, enjoy festive meals, and attend church services to mark the occasion. Outdoor activities and events are also common, as many people use the long weekend to enjoy springtime in the country.
Duration
Easter Monday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international holiday that honors the contributions of workers. In Liechtenstein, it is marked by public demonstrations, parades, and events that recognize the importance of workers in society. Labour Day is both a celebration of workers’ achievements and a call for social justice and fair working conditions.
In Liechtenstein, the day is marked by speeches, public demonstrations, and union-led marches. It is a day when the labor movement advocates for the rights of workers, better working conditions, and social reforms. Labour Day also offers an opportunity for families to spend time together, as many people take part in outdoor activities or enjoy picnics.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Ascension Day (Variable Date, May)
Description
Ascension Day, celebrated 40 days after Easter, commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. This day is particularly important for Christians in Liechtenstein, and it is marked by church services, prayers, and community gatherings.
Ascension Day is a day of both religious reflection and celebration. Many people attend church to mark the occasion, and it is also an opportunity for families and communities to gather together. In some parts of Liechtenstein, Ascension Day is also associated with outdoor festivities, particularly in rural areas where people may take part in hikes or other traditional activities.
Duration
Ascension Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Whit Monday (Variable Date, May or June)
Description
Whit Monday, celebrated the day after Pentecost, is another important religious holiday in Liechtenstein. It marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, as described in the New Testament. This holiday is celebrated with religious services, processions, and community gatherings.
In Liechtenstein, many people attend church services on Whit Monday, followed by social gatherings with family and friends. Some towns and villages hold processions or traditional events in honor of the day. As with many other Christian holidays, Whit Monday is a time for people to reflect on their faith, participate in community events, and enjoy time with loved ones.
Duration
Whit Monday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
National Day (August 15)
Description
National Day in Liechtenstein, celebrated on August 15th, marks the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and also honors the country’s national identity. It is a day of patriotic pride, commemorating the principality’s history, its royal family, and the achievements of the nation.
The celebrations on National Day include parades, concerts, firework displays, and speeches by the reigning prince or other dignitaries. National Day is also a time for family and community gatherings, as many people come together to celebrate their country and its traditions. The day often includes the raising of the national flag, and the festivities are marked by a sense of unity and national pride.
Duration
National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important Christian holidays in Liechtenstein. It is celebrated with religious observances, family gatherings, and festive meals. Christmas is a time for reflection on the values of peace, love, and goodwill.
In Liechtenstein, Christmas is observed by attending church services, especially midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Families come together to share a festive meal, exchange gifts, and enjoy the holiday spirit. Public spaces and homes are adorned with Christmas decorations and lights, creating a warm, festive atmosphere throughout the country.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
St. Stephen’s Day (December 26)
Description
St. Stephen’s Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a Christian holiday that honors St. Stephen, the first martyr of the Christian faith. This day is a continuation of the Christmas celebrations and is marked by religious services, family visits, and festive meals.
In Liechtenstein, St. Stephen’s Day is generally a quiet holiday, where families spend time together, enjoy the remaining festive food from Christmas Day, and reflect on the meaning of the holiday season. The holiday is less formally celebrated than Christmas Day itself but is still a time for rest and reflection.
Duration
St. Stephen’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Liechtenstein.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Liechtenstein
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Epiphany | January 6 | 1 day | General Public |
| Easter Monday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Ascension Day | Variable (May) | 1 day | General Public |
| Whit Monday | Variable (May/June) | 1 day | General Public |
| National Day | August 15 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| St. Stephen’s Day | December 26 | 1 day | General Public |
