Luxembourg Public Holidays
Luxembourg Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Luxembourg? All public holidays in Luxembourg are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Luxembourg employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Luxembourg 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 Luxembourg is celebrated on January 1st, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a public holiday observed by almost all sectors in the country. This day is a time for family gatherings, social events, and public celebrations. Luxembourgish people come together to reflect on the year gone by and to celebrate the start of a new one.
In Luxembourg City, New Year’s Day is marked by various events, including fireworks and public gatherings. Many people attend church services for blessings and good wishes for the year ahead. This day also marks the end of the holiday season, and businesses, government offices, and schools are typically closed, giving everyone the opportunity to spend time with family and friends.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Luxembourg.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Easter Monday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Easter Monday is a Christian holiday that occurs the day after Easter Sunday and celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The date of Easter Monday changes each year based on the ecclesiastical lunar calendar, falling between March and April. In Luxembourg, Easter Monday is a public holiday, and it is widely observed with various religious and family activities.
In Luxembourg, the Easter holiday is significant for both religious and cultural reasons. Families spend the day together, enjoying festive meals and participating in outdoor activities. Many people in Luxembourg attend church services to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. In some areas, there are local festivals, fairs, and community events that make Easter Monday a festive day for families and communities.
Duration
Easter Monday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Luxembourg, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international holiday that honors workers and their contributions to society. In Luxembourg, it is a public holiday recognized by workers, unions, and political groups. The day is marked by rallies, marches, and speeches promoting workers’ rights, labor justice, and social equality.
In Luxembourg City, the Labour Day parade attracts thousands of people, including workers, union members, and political leaders. It is an important day for the working class to express solidarity and advocate for better wages, working conditions, and social policies. Besides the public demonstrations, Labour Day is a time for families to spend together, enjoying the day off with outdoor activities, picnics, and community events.
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, though essential services remain operational.
National Day (June 23)
Description
National Day in Luxembourg, celebrated on June 23rd, is the most important public holiday in the country. It commemorates the Grand Duke’s official birthday and marks the national pride of Luxembourg. The day is marked by grand celebrations that include military parades, fireworks, concerts, and cultural events, making it one of the most festive days of the year.
National Day is a time for Luxembourgers to show their pride in their heritage and celebrate the country’s sovereignty. The day begins with a military parade in the capital, Luxembourg City, where dignitaries and citizens gather. There are also cultural performances, music concerts, and fireworks displays in the evening. It is a holiday for both reflection on the country’s history and a celebration of Luxembourg’s modern identity.
Duration
National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Luxembourg.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Assumption Day (August 15)
Description
Assumption Day, celebrated on August 15th, is a Christian holiday that honors the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken into heaven at the end of her earthly life. This day is an important religious holiday in Luxembourg, particularly for the Catholic community. Assumption Day is marked by mass services, processions, and local festivities.
In Luxembourg, many families attend church services on Assumption Day. It is a day of spiritual reflection and devotion, with some towns and villages organizing processions in honor of the Virgin Mary. While the holiday is primarily religious, it also brings together families and communities for outdoor celebrations, cultural events, and gatherings.
Duration
Assumption Day 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, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a significant holiday in Luxembourg, particularly for Christians. The day is celebrated with religious observances, family gatherings, and festive meals. It is a time for reflection, joy, and charity, with many people spending time with their families and attending church services.
In Luxembourg, Christmas is a highly anticipated holiday. On Christmas Eve, families gather to celebrate with a special meal, often featuring traditional Luxembourgish dishes. On Christmas Day itself, people attend church services to mark the birth of Christ, and the day is spent with loved ones, exchanging gifts and enjoying a festive atmosphere. Many homes, shops, and public spaces are decorated with Christmas trees and lights, adding to the holiday ambiance.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Luxembourg, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Saint Stephen’s Day (December 26)
Description
Saint Stephen’s Day, celebrated on December 26th, honors Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. This holiday is a continuation of Christmas celebrations and is observed by attending mass, spending time with family, and enjoying a festive meal. In Luxembourg, it is a day of rest and relaxation following the festivities of Christmas.
On Saint Stephen’s Day, many Luxembourgers enjoy a quiet day with their families. While the day itself is not as celebratory as Christmas Day, it is still an occasion for gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and reflecting on the season’s religious significance. Some people also participate in charitable acts or visit family members who may have been unable to attend Christmas celebrations.
Duration
Saint Stephen’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Luxembourg.
- 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 Luxembourg
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Easter Monday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| National Day | June 23 | 1 day | General Public |
| Assumption Day | August 15 | 1 day | General Public (Catholics) |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Saint Stephen’s Day | December 26 | 1 day | General Public |
