Nicaragua Public Holidays

Nicaragua Public Holidays

Searching for the national holidays in Nicaragua? All public holidays in Nicaragua are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Nicaragua employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Nicaragua and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.

Holidays in Nicaragua

New Year’s Day (January 1)

Description

New Year’s Day in Nicaragua is celebrated on January 1st, marking the start of the new year in the Gregorian calendar. It is a national holiday filled with joy and celebration as people come together to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the year ahead. In Nicaragua, New Year’s Day is a family-oriented holiday, with gatherings, parties, and meals. Many people enjoy traditional Nicaraguan dishes and beverages, and some attend religious services to start the year with blessings and hope for the future.

Nicaraguans often use this holiday to rest and spend time with loved ones, enjoying the festive atmosphere. Fireworks, music, and outdoor activities such as parties are also common, especially in urban areas like Managua.

Duration

New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.

Groups Affected

  • General Public: All citizens of Nicaragua.
  • Government Employees: Given the day off.
  • Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.

Sandino Day (February 18)

Description

Sandino Day, observed on February 18th, commemorates the life of Augusto César Sandino, a Nicaraguan revolutionary leader who fought against U.S. occupation in the early 20th century. Sandino is considered a national hero, and his efforts to protect the sovereignty of Nicaragua against foreign intervention have left a lasting legacy in the country’s history.

On Sandino Day, Nicaraguans honor his role in the country’s struggle for independence and national dignity. The day is marked by official ceremonies, speeches, and public events organized by the government, as well as smaller community gatherings. Schools and public institutions may hold special sessions to educate citizens, particularly students, on the significance of Sandino’s life and ideals.

Duration

Sandino Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.

Groups Affected

  • General Public: All citizens of Nicaragua.
  • Government Employees: Given the day off.
  • Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.

Holy Week (Semana Santa) (Variable Date, March or April)

Description

Holy Week, or Semana Santa, is one of the most important holidays in Nicaragua, celebrated in March or April, depending on when Easter falls. The week marks the last days of Jesus Christ’s life, including his crucifixion and resurrection. Holy Week in Nicaragua is observed with religious processions, Masses, and community activities that reflect the country’s Catholic traditions.

The holiday is deeply spiritual, and many Nicaraguans attend religious services, such as the Good Friday procession and Easter Sunday Mass. Many people take time off from work to spend with family and to participate in the religious activities. It is also a time for tourism, with many Nicaraguans and visitors traveling to the beach or rural areas to enjoy the natural beauty of the country.

Duration

Holy Week spans several days, with Good Friday and Easter Sunday being the main days of observance. Government offices, businesses, and schools are generally closed for both days, but some may also close on Thursday, depending on local customs.

Groups Affected

  • General Public: All citizens, especially Christians.
  • Government Employees: Given the days off.
  • Private Sector: Most businesses close for the days, 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 Nicaragua, Labour Day is a time to recognize the efforts of workers in the country’s development and to advocate for workers’ rights, fair wages, and better working conditions. The day is marked by marches, speeches, and rallies organized by labor unions, political groups, and social organizations.

The celebrations focus on the achievements of workers’ movements in Nicaragua, and it is a day of solidarity for the labor force. There are public events and discussions on labor rights, social justice, and the need for continued improvements in working conditions.

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, though essential services remain operational.

Independence Day (September 15)

Description

Independence Day, celebrated on September 15th, marks the day in 1821 when Nicaragua, along with other Central American countries, declared independence from Spain. This day is of great national importance, as it commemorates the country’s freedom from colonial rule. The holiday is celebrated with pride and patriotism, and it is one of the major holidays in the country.

Independence Day is marked by parades, flag-raising ceremonies, speeches, and festivals. In addition to official events organized by the government, many communities hold local celebrations, such as dances, concerts, and traditional foods. Schools and public institutions typically participate in events that highlight the significance of the country’s independence and its progress since gaining freedom from Spain.

Duration

Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.

Groups Affected

  • General Public: All citizens of Nicaragua.
  • Government Employees: Given the day off.
  • Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.

Revolution Day (July 19)

Description

Revolution Day, observed on July 19th, commemorates the victory of the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) over the Somoza dictatorship in 1979. This day marks the beginning of the Nicaraguan Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the Somoza family after decades of rule. Revolution Day is a celebration of the Sandinista movement and its contribution to the country’s social and political changes.

The day is marked by speeches, parades, concerts, and official events organized by the government. It is an occasion for political reflection and national pride, as the government highlights the progress achieved since the revolution and the continued struggle for the country’s development.

Duration

Revolution Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.

Groups Affected

  • General Public: All citizens of Nicaragua.
  • 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 important Christian holidays in Nicaragua, celebrated with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Christmas in Nicaragua is a time for religious reflection, but it is also a time of joy, celebration, and sharing.

Nicaraguans celebrate Christmas with festive dinners, often featuring traditional dishes such as tamales, pork, and rice. Many families attend Mass to honor the birth of Christ, and the holiday is also an opportunity to spend time with loved ones and exchange gifts. In some regions, it is common to hold parties and celebrations that extend late into the night.

Duration

Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.

Groups Affected

  • General Public: All citizens of Nicaragua, especially 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 Nicaragua

Public Holiday Date Duration Groups Affected
New Year’s Day January 1 1 day General Public, Government Employees
Sandino Day February 18 1 day General Public
Holy Week (Semana Santa) Variable (March/April) 1-3 days General Public (Christians)
Labour Day May 1 1 day General Public, Workers
Independence Day September 15 1 day General Public
Revolution Day July 19 1 day General Public
Christmas Day December 25 1 day General Public (Christians)

Nicaragua Public Holidays