Monaco Public Holidays
Monaco Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Monaco? All public holidays in Monaco are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Monaco employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Monaco 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, celebrated on January 1st, marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a significant public holiday in Monaco, where people come together to celebrate the beginning of the year with various festivities. Many people spend the day with family and friends, reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the new one.
In Monaco, New Year’s Day is observed with public celebrations, family gatherings, and fireworks. While many businesses remain closed, especially in the morning, celebrations in hotels and resorts begin with a festive atmosphere. In addition, special church services are held to mark the occasion, and people often attend mass for blessings and prayers for 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 Monaco.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Good Friday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Good Friday is observed by Christians in Monaco and marks the day of Christ’s crucifixion. The date varies each year depending on the ecclesiastical calendar but typically falls in March or April. As a religious holiday, Good Friday is solemnly observed, and many people in Monaco attend church services to reflect on the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
Good Friday is a time for reflection, prayer, and fasting for Christians, and some people may also visit churches to participate in processions or reenactments of Christ’s final moments. The day holds special significance in Monaco’s Christian community, and it is often seen as a day for peace and contemplation.
Duration
Good Friday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians.
- 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 the day after Easter Sunday and is observed by Christians to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It follows the celebrations of Easter Sunday and is a continuation of the joyous occasion for those observing the Christian faith. In Monaco, Easter Monday is marked with outdoor activities, family gatherings, and church services.
It is a public holiday that also marks the end of the Easter weekend, with many people taking advantage of the long weekend to enjoy time with family or to travel. In Monaco, the holiday is often observed with picnics and outings, and many businesses close for the day, giving people a chance to enjoy the festive atmosphere of spring.
Duration
Easter Monday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily 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 a global holiday that honors the contributions of workers. In Monaco, Labour Day is recognized as a time to celebrate the labor force, advocate for workers’ rights, and reflect on the progress made regarding labor rights and working conditions.
In Monaco, the day is typically marked by speeches, demonstrations, and union-led events that highlight issues affecting workers. It is a day for workers to celebrate the achievements made by the labor movement, as well as to discuss and campaign for further improvements in workers’ rights. Labour Day is a public holiday, and many businesses and government offices are closed for the day.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
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.
National Day (November 19)
Description
National Day in Monaco is celebrated on November 19th and commemorates the official date of the current ruler, Prince Albert II’s father, Prince Rainier III’s reign. It is a major public holiday that highlights Monaco’s political, cultural, and historical significance.
National Day is celebrated with various ceremonial events, including the religious mass at the Monaco Cathedral, military parades, and cultural performances. It is a day of national pride, with citizens and residents coming together to show their loyalty to the ruling family. The celebration typically includes concerts, fireworks, and cultural exhibitions, making it one of the most significant events in Monaco’s annual calendar.
Duration
National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Monaco.
- 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. It is one of the most significant Christian holidays observed in Monaco, and although Monaco is a secular principality, Christmas is widely celebrated, especially by the Christian community.
Christmas Day in Monaco is a time for family gatherings, feasts, and religious observances. Many people attend church services, and there are public Christmas events such as concerts, markets, and festivals. The holiday is marked by decorations throughout the streets of Monaco, particularly in areas like Monte Carlo, where lights and Christmas trees adorn public spaces. It is a festive occasion for residents and tourists alike, with many visiting Monaco to experience the holiday atmosphere.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly Christians.
- 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 Monaco
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Good Friday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Easter Monday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| National Day | November 19 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
