Paraguay Public Holidays
Paraguay Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Paraguay? All public holidays in Paraguay are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Paraguay employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Paraguay 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 beginning of the year in the Gregorian calendar. In Paraguay, this holiday is a time of celebration and renewal. People in Paraguay mark the occasion with family gatherings, parties, and fireworks. Many citizens take time to reflect on the year gone by and make resolutions for the future. It is common for people to spend the day with family or attend public festivities, such as concerts or community events.
New Year’s Day is also a day of rest and relaxation for many Paraguayans, with some attending church services to give thanks for the year ahead. Traditional Paraguayan foods are often enjoyed, and many people gather to share meals and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are generally closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Paraguay.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed, though essential services remain operational.
Heroes Day (March 1)
Description
Heroes Day, observed on March 1st, commemorates the national heroes of Paraguay who contributed to the country’s independence and the defense of its sovereignty. This day marks a significant moment in Paraguayan history and is an occasion for national pride. The holiday honors those who fought for the country’s freedom during key historical moments, including the War of Triple Alliance.
The day is celebrated with ceremonies, parades, and speeches by government officials and dignitaries. People across Paraguay participate in public gatherings, and many attend events that highlight the country’s history and military heroes. Schools often hold special sessions where students learn about Paraguay’s national heroes and the country’s struggle for independence.
Duration
Heroes Day is a one-day holiday, and government offices, businesses, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Paraguay.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Holy Thursday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Holy Thursday is a significant Christian holiday that marks the beginning of the Easter observance. It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples and the institution of the Eucharist. In Paraguay, Holy Thursday is observed with solemn religious services, including Mass and processions. The holiday is an important part of the Holy Week celebrations, which are filled with religious rituals and community activities.
On this day, many Paraguayans attend church services, reflect on the meaning of the Eucharist, and engage in various acts of worship. It is also a time for families to gather together and prepare for the rest of the Easter observance.
Duration
Holy Thursday 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 are closed for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Good Friday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Good Friday, observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday, commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Paraguay, it is a solemn religious holiday that marks a day of reflection, prayer, and meditation on the sacrifice of Christ. Many Paraguayans attend church services on Good Friday, and some participate in reenactments of Christ’s Passion. The day is marked by quiet reflection, fasting, and acts of charity.
Paraguayans often take the day to spend time with family and engage in acts of worship. The holiday is central to the observance of Easter and holds deep religious significance for the Christian community.
Duration
Good Friday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Victory Day over Brazil (March 27)
Description
Victory Day over Brazil, celebrated on March 27th, commemorates the victory of Paraguayan forces in the Battle of Campo Grande during the Paraguayan War (War of the Triple Alliance). This day is a national holiday that celebrates the resilience and military achievements of Paraguay during a critical period in its history.
The day is marked by parades, official ceremonies, and remembrance events throughout the country. People gather in public spaces to honor the soldiers who fought in the war and reflect on the significance of Paraguay’s victory. Military personnel and veterans are often recognized in special events and ceremonies.
Duration
Victory Day over Brazil is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Paraguay.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, observed on May 1st, is an international holiday that celebrates workers’ rights and achievements. In Paraguay, Labour Day is marked by public celebrations, parades, and demonstrations organized by labor unions and political groups. The holiday honors the contributions of workers to the economy and society and raises awareness about ongoing issues related to labor rights and working conditions.
In addition to rallies and public events, many Paraguayans take the day off to spend time with family and enjoy leisure activities. Labour Day is also a time to reflect on the progress made in improving working conditions and workers’ rights in Paraguay.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, especially workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain open.
Independence Day (May 14-15)
Description
Independence Day in Paraguay is celebrated on May 14th and 15th, marking the day in 1811 when Paraguay declared its independence from Spain. The holiday is a time for national pride, remembrance, and reflection on the country’s history and sovereignty. Independence Day is observed with parades, military demonstrations, and cultural performances throughout the country.
In addition to the official ceremonies and events, citizens participate in festivities that highlight Paraguayan culture, including traditional music, dances, and foods. Schools hold special sessions to teach students about the importance of independence and the country’s struggle for freedom.
Duration
Independence Day is a two-day holiday, with government offices, businesses, and schools closed for both days.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Paraguay.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed for both days, though essential services remain operational.
Victory Day over the Triple Alliance (March 1)
Description
Victory Day over the Triple Alliance is a national holiday observed on March 1st to commemorate the decisive victory of Paraguay in the Battle of Tuyutí during the War of the Triple Alliance (1864–1870). The war was one of the most devastating conflicts in the region’s history, and the battle is remembered as a symbol of the resilience of the Paraguayan people during the conflict.
Victory Day is marked by ceremonies, speeches, and commemorations honoring those who fought in the war. Military parades and public events are held in honor of the soldiers and the sacrifices made during this pivotal moment in Paraguayan history.
Duration
Victory Day over the Triple Alliance is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Paraguay.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed, though essential services remain operational.
Chaco Armistice Day (June 12)
Description
Chaco Armistice Day, observed on June 12th, commemorates the signing of the peace treaty that ended the Chaco War (1932–1935) between Paraguay and Bolivia. The war was fought over control of the Chaco region, and the armistice marked the end of a brutal and costly conflict. This day is a national holiday that honors those who served in the war and remembers the cost of peace.
In Paraguay, Chaco Armistice Day is a time for reflection on the impact of war and the importance of peace. It is observed with public ceremonies, military parades, and educational activities that highlight the historical significance of the war and its resolution.
Duration
Chaco Armistice Day is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Paraguay.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. In Paraguay, it is a significant religious holiday observed with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. The holiday season in Paraguay is filled with joy, celebration, and reflection, as families come together to honor Christ’s birth.
Christmas in Paraguay is a time for family reunions and community events. Many citizens attend Mass, followed by festive dinners where traditional Paraguayan dishes are served. The celebration is characterized by music, dance, and the sharing of gifts. In addition to its religious significance, Christmas in Paraguay is also a time to reflect on the values of love, unity, and goodwill.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, 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 Paraguay
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Heroes Day | March 1 | 1 day | General Public |
| Holy Thursday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Good Friday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Easter Sunday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Independence Day | May 14-15 | 2 days | General Public, Government Employees |
| Victory Day over Brazil | March 27 | 1 day | General Public |
| Chaco Armistice Day | June 12 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
