worldwide public holidays news and updates of the past seven days
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Burkina Faso Passes Public Holidays Overhaul Legislation Ministère du Travail et de la Sécurité Sociale (Ouagadougou) Burkina Faso's Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) has unanimously adopted the loi révisée sur les jours chômés et payés which amends the loi de novembre 2015 portant institution de fêtes légales et d’évènements à caractère historique and cancels 4 annual paid public holidays. The law also abolishes day in lieu public holidays, but as per Burkina Faso's Minister of Public Service, Mathias Traoré, "The newly adopted law also allows, when circumstances require, the Minister of Public Service and Labour to declare a paid holiday by press release.". Recall that, last September, the Government Cabinet of Burkina Faso had announced its decision to cancel 4 annual public holidays, as well as to stop the practice of declaring day in lieu public holidays when a fixed date public holiday falls on a Sunday. The public holidays to be canceled at that time were those of January 3 (Revolution Day), August 5 (Independence Day), August 15 (Assumption Day), and October 31 (Martyrs' Day). The recently-added annual May 15 public holiday (Day of Customs and Traditions) would, however, be maintained.
Burkina Faso Passes Public Holidays Overhaul Legislation Ministère du Travail et de la Sécurité Sociale (Ouagadougou) Burkina Faso's Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) has unanimously adopted the loi révisée sur les jours chômés et payés which amends the loi de novembre 2015 portant institution de fêtes légales et d’évènements à caractère historique and cancels 4 annual paid public holidays. The law also abolishes day in lieu public holidays, but as per Burkina Faso's Minister of Public Service, Mathias Traoré, "The newly adopted law also allows, when circumstances require, the Minister of Public Service and Labour to declare a paid holiday by press release.". Recall that, last September, the Government Cabinet of Burkina Faso had announced its decision to cancel 4 annual public holidays, as well as to stop the practice of declaring day in lieu public holidays when a fixed date public holiday falls on a Sunday. The public holidays to be canceled at that time were those of January 3 (Revolution Day), August 5 (Independence Day), August 15 (Assumption Day), and October 31 (Martyrs' Day). The recently-added annual May 15 public holiday (Day of Customs and Traditions) would, however, be maintained.
Monaco Gazettes January 27 Public Holiday Bulletin Officiel de la Principauté (Monaco) In today's Journal Officiel Numéro 8781, Monaco's State Ministry has gazetted the Circulaire n°2025‑15 du 26 décembre 2025 relative au mardi 27 janvier 2026 (Jour de la Sainte Dévote), jour férié légal, confirming that Tuesday, January 27, 2026, would be a public holiday in Monaco for all employees. As per the aforementioned Circulaire n°2025-15, "Pursuant to Law No. 798 and Law No. 800 of February 18, 1966, as amended, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, is a public holiday, a day off with pay for all employees regardless of their method of remuneration". The aforementioned Circulaire n°2025‑15 supplements the previously-announced annual list of official non-working public holidays in Monaco and Monaco bank holidays for the calendar year 2026, as released, last October.
Monaco Gazettes January 27 Public Holiday Bulletin Officiel de la Principauté (Monaco) In today's Journal Officiel Numéro 8781, Monaco's State Ministry has gazetted the Circulaire n°2025‑15 du 26 décembre 2025 relative au mardi 27 janvier 2026 (Jour de la Sainte Dévote), jour férié légal, confirming that Tuesday, January 27, 2026, would be a public holiday in Monaco for all employees. As per the aforementioned Circulaire n°2025-15, "Pursuant to Law No. 798 and Law No. 800 of February 18, 1966, as amended, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, is a public holiday, a day off with pay for all employees regardless of their method of remuneration". The aforementioned Circulaire n°2025‑15 supplements the previously-announced annual list of official non-working public holidays in Monaco and Monaco bank holidays for the calendar year 2026, as released, last October.
Algerian Yennayer Public Holiday January 12 Direction Générale de la Fonction Publique (Algiers) The Algerian Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security and the Directorate General of Public Service and Administrative Reform announced in a joint statement that Monday, January 12, 2026, had been declared a public holiday in Algeria to mark the upcoming Amazigh New Year. As per the aforementioned communique, "On the occasion of Amenzu n Yennayer , the Amazigh New Year, and in accordance with Law 63-278 of July 26, 1963, amended and supplemented, establishing the list of legal holidays, Monday, January 12, 2026, is a paid holiday for all staff of public institutions and administrations, public and private establishments and offices, as well as staff of public and private companies, all sectors and legal statuses combined, including staff paid by the hour or by the day". Amazigh New Year was approved as a new annual public holiday by Algeria's Council of Ministers, and then by Algeria's Popular Assembly (APN), in early 2018. Neighboring Morocco followed suit, beginning in 2024, but the Moroccan Amazigh New Year public holiday is observed on January 14.
Algerian Yennayer Public Holiday January 12 Direction Générale de la Fonction Publique (Algiers) The Algerian Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security and the Directorate General of Public Service and Administrative Reform announced in a joint statement that Monday, January 12, 2026, had been declared a public holiday in Algeria to mark the upcoming Amazigh New Year. As per the aforementioned communique, "On the occasion of Amenzu n Yennayer , the Amazigh New Year, and in accordance with Law 63-278 of July 26, 1963, amended and supplemented, establishing the list of legal holidays, Monday, January 12, 2026, is a paid holiday for all staff of public institutions and administrations, public and private establishments and offices, as well as staff of public and private companies, all sectors and legal statuses combined, including staff paid by the hour or by the day". Amazigh New Year was approved as a new annual public holiday by Algeria's Council of Ministers, and then by Algeria's Popular Assembly (APN), in early 2018. Neighboring Morocco followed suit, beginning in 2024, but the Moroccan Amazigh New Year public holiday is observed on January 14.
Uganda Declares January 15 and 16 Electoral Public Holidays Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda (Kampala) The President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has issued the as yet unnumbered Legal Notice of 2026 (Declaration of Public Holidays - Under Section 2 (2) of the Public Holidays Act, Cap. 17) which declares Thursday and Friday, January 15 and 16, 2026, as public holidays on account of the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections, which had been announced last October by the chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda, Justice Simon Byabakama. As per the aforementioned Legal Notice, "In exercise of the powers conferred upon the President by Section 2 (2) of the Public Holidays Act, I declare 15th and 16th January, 2026 to be observed as public holidays throughout Uganda for the purpose of enabling citizens to participate in the Presidential and Parliamentary elections". Recall that, on the occasion of the last Presidential election, the date of the election, Thursday, January 14, 2021, was declared a one-off public holiday. This was later followed by an announcement by the Minister of Public Service of Uganda, Catherine Birakwate, that the January 14 electoral public holiday would be extended to also include the day after the election, namely Friday, January 15, 2021. And, subsequently, the then Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service of the Government of Uganda, Catherine Musingwire, announced that Wednesday, May 12, 2021, was to be declared a one-off public holiday in Uganda, "to allow citizens to follow the proceedings from Kololo Independence grounds where President Museveni will be taking his oath of office for the sixth consecutive term". The incumbent, and a candidate for the upcoming elections, President Museveni, has been president of Uganda since January 1986.
Uganda Declares January 15 and 16 Electoral Public Holidays Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda (Kampala) The President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has issued the as yet unnumbered Legal Notice of 2026 (Declaration of Public Holidays - Under Section 2 (2) of the Public Holidays Act, Cap. 17) which declares Thursday and Friday, January 15 and 16, 2026, as public holidays on account of the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections, which had been announced last October by the chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda, Justice Simon Byabakama. As per the aforementioned Legal Notice, "In exercise of the powers conferred upon the President by Section 2 (2) of the Public Holidays Act, I declare 15th and 16th January, 2026 to be observed as public holidays throughout Uganda for the purpose of enabling citizens to participate in the Presidential and Parliamentary elections". Recall that, on the occasion of the last Presidential election, the date of the election, Thursday, January 14, 2021, was declared a one-off public holiday. This was later followed by an announcement by the Minister of Public Service of Uganda, Catherine Birakwate, that the January 14 electoral public holiday would be extended to also include the day after the election, namely Friday, January 15, 2021. And, subsequently, the then Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service of the Government of Uganda, Catherine Musingwire, announced that Wednesday, May 12, 2021, was to be declared a one-off public holiday in Uganda, "to allow citizens to follow the proceedings from Kololo Independence grounds where President Museveni will be taking his oath of office for the sixth consecutive term". The incumbent, and a candidate for the upcoming elections, President Museveni, has been president of Uganda since January 1986.
Assam Declares January 8 Public Holiday Government of Assam (Guwahati) The Government of the Indian State of Assam has declared a public holiday across the Cachar district on Thursday, January 8, 2026, to pay tribute to former Union Minister Kabindra Purkayastha, who passed away earlier today at the age of 94. Today's announcement thus slightly amends last November's vide notification No.221561/440 containing the list of public holidays in Assam for 2026. Recall that, last September, the Government of Assam had somewhat similarly declared a public holiday for Tuesday, September 23, 2025, in view of the State Funeral of late singer and filmmaker Zubeen Garg.
Assam Declares January 8 Public Holiday Government of Assam (Guwahati) The Government of the Indian State of Assam has declared a public holiday across the Cachar district on Thursday, January 8, 2026, to pay tribute to former Union Minister Kabindra Purkayastha, who passed away earlier today at the age of 94. Today's announcement thus slightly amends last November's vide notification No.221561/440 containing the list of public holidays in Assam for 2026. Recall that, last September, the Government of Assam had somewhat similarly declared a public holiday for Tuesday, September 23, 2025, in view of the State Funeral of late singer and filmmaker Zubeen Garg.
Iraq Declares January 8 Public Holiday In Baghdad Governorate Al Sumaria News (Baghdad) At today's regular session of the Iraqi Cabinet, it was decided to declare an official public holiday in the capital, Baghdad, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, to commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Musa ibn Ja'far al-Kadhim. Recall that, last year, Iraq's Ministry of Interior declared Sunday, January 26, 2025, as an official public holiday in the Baghdad governorate to cope with the expected influx of pilgrims heading to the city of Kadhimiya for the annual commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Musa bin Jafar Al-Kadhim, and that other regions announced that they would follow suit. Prior to last year, the Rajab 25 commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Musa bin Jafar Al-Kadhim had been declared a one-off public holiday in the Baghdad governorate on previous occasions, such as Sunday, May 25, 2014, and Thursday July 8, 2010. These public holidays declarations were also announced on the day before the commemoration.
Iraq Declares January 8 Public Holiday In Baghdad Governorate Al Sumaria News (Baghdad) At today's regular session of the Iraqi Cabinet, it was decided to declare an official public holiday in the capital, Baghdad, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, to commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Musa ibn Ja'far al-Kadhim. Recall that, last year, Iraq's Ministry of Interior declared Sunday, January 26, 2025, as an official public holiday in the Baghdad governorate to cope with the expected influx of pilgrims heading to the city of Kadhimiya for the annual commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Musa bin Jafar Al-Kadhim, and that other regions announced that they would follow suit. Prior to last year, the Rajab 25 commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Musa bin Jafar Al-Kadhim had been declared a one-off public holiday in the Baghdad governorate on previous occasions, such as Sunday, May 25, 2014, and Thursday July 8, 2010. These public holidays declarations were also announced on the day before the commemoration.
Uzbekistan Officializes 2026 Public Holidays Uzbek National News Agency (Tashkent) The Ministry of Poverty Reduction and Employment of Uzbekistan has approved the calendar of 2026 non-working public holidays, based on the Labor Code of Uzbekistan and last month's Presidential decree О назначении дополнительных нерабочих дней и переносе выходных в период празднования официальных дат в 2026 году. Recall that, late last year, President Mirziyoyev signed the decree On the Appointment of Additional Non-Working Days and the Transfer of Days Off During the Celebration of Official Dates in 2026 establishing 6 one-off public holidays, one compensatory Saturday working day, and 3 day in lieu public holidays in 2026.
Uzbekistan Officializes 2026 Public Holidays Uzbek National News Agency (Tashkent) The Ministry of Poverty Reduction and Employment of Uzbekistan has approved the calendar of 2026 non-working public holidays, based on the Labor Code of Uzbekistan and last month's Presidential decree О назначении дополнительных нерабочих дней и переносе выходных в период празднования официальных дат в 2026 году. Recall that, late last year, President Mirziyoyev signed the decree On the Appointment of Additional Non-Working Days and the Transfer of Days Off During the Celebration of Official Dates in 2026 establishing 6 one-off public holidays, one compensatory Saturday working day, and 3 day in lieu public holidays in 2026.
Venezuelan Bank Holiday January 12 Superintendencia de Instituciones del Sector Bancario (Sudeban) The Venezuelan regulatory body for the banking sector, Sudeban (Superintendencia de Instituciones del Sector Bancario) has announced that Monday, January 12, 2026, would be a bank holiday in Venezuela, on account of the upcoming Día de Reyes bank holiday dates observed by banks and the financial sector of Venezuela. The aforementioned announcement is in line with the official list of 2026 public and banking holidays in Venezuela as announced early last November by the Sudeban, in conformity with the Ley de Reforma Parcial de la Ley de Instituciones del Sector Bancario.
Venezuelan Bank Holiday January 12 Superintendencia de Instituciones del Sector Bancario (Sudeban) The Venezuelan regulatory body for the banking sector, Sudeban (Superintendencia de Instituciones del Sector Bancario) has announced that Monday, January 12, 2026, would be a bank holiday in Venezuela, on account of the upcoming Día de Reyes bank holiday dates observed by banks and the financial sector of Venezuela. The aforementioned announcement is in line with the official list of 2026 public and banking holidays in Venezuela as announced early last November by the Sudeban, in conformity with the Ley de Reforma Parcial de la Ley de Instituciones del Sector Bancario.
Philippines Extend January 9 Public Holiday Philippine Information Agency (Manila) Philippines Executive Secretary, Ralph Recto, by authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has issued the Proclamation No.1126 declaring Thursday, January 9, 2025, as a special non-working holiday in the City of Manila, to commemorate the Feast of the Black Nazarene. As per the aforementioned proclamation, "In order to ensure the orderly procession of devotees and to facilitate the flow of traffic, the City of Manila requests that Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, be declared a special (non-working) day.". Recall that, yesterday, Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso had issued Executive Order No. 1, Series of 2026, suspending classes in all levels, both public and private, whether online or face-to-face, and work in government offices in the City of Manila on Friday, January 9, 2026, as was done in 2025, 2024, 2023 and 2017. In 2019, House Bill 8812 was filed by Quezon City Representative Alfred Vargas, in the Philippines House of Representatives, which would have declared January 9 as a nationwide annual non-working public holiday in the Philippines. But this bill died in commission.
Philippines Extend January 9 Public Holiday Philippine Information Agency (Manila) Philippines Executive Secretary, Ralph Recto, by authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has issued the Proclamation No.1126 declaring Thursday, January 9, 2025, as a special non-working holiday in the City of Manila, to commemorate the Feast of the Black Nazarene. As per the aforementioned proclamation, "In order to ensure the orderly procession of devotees and to facilitate the flow of traffic, the City of Manila requests that Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, be declared a special (non-working) day.". Recall that, yesterday, Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso had issued Executive Order No. 1, Series of 2026, suspending classes in all levels, both public and private, whether online or face-to-face, and work in government offices in the City of Manila on Friday, January 9, 2026, as was done in 2025, 2024, 2023 and 2017. In 2019, House Bill 8812 was filed by Quezon City Representative Alfred Vargas, in the Philippines House of Representatives, which would have declared January 9 as a nationwide annual non-working public holiday in the Philippines. But this bill died in commission.
Bahamas 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Government of the Bahamas (Nassau) The Government of the Bahamas has released its annual official list of the non-working public holidays in the Bahamas, for the calendar year 2026. In the aforementioned list, Monday, December 28, 2026, is listed as a public holiday due to December 26 falling on a weekend, despite the fact that only Bahamas public holidays falling on a Sunday, give rise to a day in lieu public holiday. Before 2026, there had been one exception to that rule. In 2009, then Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham tabled an amendment to the Bahamas Public Holidays Act, designating Monday, December 28th, 2009, as that year's official Boxing Day public holiday, and as a consequence, Saturday, December 26th, 2009, was observed as a normal day for those businesses and agencies that usually open on Saturdays. In 2021, the Bahamas Cabinet did discuss the declaration of an additional day in lieu public holiday, on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at its meeting of December 14, but in the end decided against the declaration of an additional day in lieu public holiday ("Cabinet has decided not to change the holiday schedule, so Tuesday will not be a public holiday").
Bahamas 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Government of the Bahamas (Nassau) The Government of the Bahamas has released its annual official list of the non-working public holidays in the Bahamas, for the calendar year 2026. In the aforementioned list, Monday, December 28, 2026, is listed as a public holiday due to December 26 falling on a weekend, despite the fact that only Bahamas public holidays falling on a Sunday, give rise to a day in lieu public holiday. Before 2026, there had been one exception to that rule. In 2009, then Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham tabled an amendment to the Bahamas Public Holidays Act, designating Monday, December 28th, 2009, as that year's official Boxing Day public holiday, and as a consequence, Saturday, December 26th, 2009, was observed as a normal day for those businesses and agencies that usually open on Saturdays. In 2021, the Bahamas Cabinet did discuss the declaration of an additional day in lieu public holiday, on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at its meeting of December 14, but in the end decided against the declaration of an additional day in lieu public holiday ("Cabinet has decided not to change the holiday schedule, so Tuesday will not be a public holiday").
Bangladesh Debunks Claims Of Canceled National And Religious Holidays Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) The Chief Adviser’s (CA) Office of the Government of Bangladesh has issued a communique dismissing media reports that the government has cancelled the holidays of the educational institutions on a number of religious and national days. As per the aforementioned communique, "Claims have been published in several media outlets and on social media in Bangladesh and India that the Bangladesh government has cancelled holidays for Saraswati Puja, February 21, May Day, Buddha Purnima, Ashura, Janmashtami, Madhu Purnima, and Mahalaya in 2026. This claim is not true. In reality, these days were not listed separately as holidays because they fall on weekly holidays.".
Bangladesh Debunks Claims Of Canceled National And Religious Holidays Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) The Chief Adviser’s (CA) Office of the Government of Bangladesh has issued a communique dismissing media reports that the government has cancelled the holidays of the educational institutions on a number of religious and national days. As per the aforementioned communique, "Claims have been published in several media outlets and on social media in Bangladesh and India that the Bangladesh government has cancelled holidays for Saraswati Puja, February 21, May Day, Buddha Purnima, Ashura, Janmashtami, Madhu Purnima, and Mahalaya in 2026. This claim is not true. In reality, these days were not listed separately as holidays because they fall on weekly holidays.".
Cambodia Cancels January 7 Public Holiday Celebrations Cabinet of the Prime Minister of Cambodia (Phnom Penh) The Royal Government of Cambodia has decided to cancel the celebration of the annual January 7 public holiday in 2026 due to ongoing "military tensions, massive population displacements, and persistent debates over historical memory". Recall that, last September, the Government of Cambodia had similarly decided to postpone the celebration of the annual Water Festival, originally scheduled for November 4–6, 2025, as a reflection of the Government’s priority in addressing the welfare of displaced civilians along the Cambodian-Thai border, and Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand. Back then, as is the case for January 7, 2026, the directive emphasized that civil servants, employees, and workers would still enjoy the public holiday whose celebration had been canceled.
Cambodia Cancels January 7 Public Holiday Celebrations Cabinet of the Prime Minister of Cambodia (Phnom Penh) The Royal Government of Cambodia has decided to cancel the celebration of the annual January 7 public holiday in 2026 due to ongoing "military tensions, massive population displacements, and persistent debates over historical memory". Recall that, last September, the Government of Cambodia had similarly decided to postpone the celebration of the annual Water Festival, originally scheduled for November 4–6, 2025, as a reflection of the Government’s priority in addressing the welfare of displaced civilians along the Cambodian-Thai border, and Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand. Back then, as is the case for January 7, 2026, the directive emphasized that civil servants, employees, and workers would still enjoy the public holiday whose celebration had been canceled.
El Salvador 2026 Public Holidays Announced Ministerio de Trabajo y Previsión Social de El Salvador (San Salvador) El Salvador's Ministerio de Trabajo y Previsión Social has released the list of annual non-working public holidays in el Salvador for the calendar year 2026. The aforementioned announcement of the list of annual non-working public holidays in el Salvador for the calendar year 2026 is in line with the list of 2026 bank holidays released by El Salvador's Central Bank, last October ("calendario de días de cierre bancario para el año dos mil veintiséis, aplicables a Bancos, Bancos Cooperativos, Sociedades de Ahorro y Crédito y Bancos de Inversión"), and recent changes of the past decade. Namely, in 2012, the government of el Salvador issued a decree declaring June 17 as a new annual non-working public holiday in El Salvador to mark Fathers' Day, to be observed by both the public and private sectors ("un privilegio del que gocen no solo los empleados públicos sino que abarque también al privado"). And, in 2016, El Salvador's legislative assembly approved a bill that declared that the annual El Salvador non-working public sector holiday on May 10, to commemorate Mother's Day (Día de la Madre), would henceforth be a fully national non-working public holiday, for both the private and public sectors of El Salvador ("asueto remunerado para el sector público y privado").
El Salvador 2026 Public Holidays Announced Ministerio de Trabajo y Previsión Social de El Salvador (San Salvador) El Salvador's Ministerio de Trabajo y Previsión Social has released the list of annual non-working public holidays in el Salvador for the calendar year 2026. The aforementioned announcement of the list of annual non-working public holidays in el Salvador for the calendar year 2026 is in line with the list of 2026 bank holidays released by El Salvador's Central Bank, last October ("calendario de días de cierre bancario para el año dos mil veintiséis, aplicables a Bancos, Bancos Cooperativos, Sociedades de Ahorro y Crédito y Bancos de Inversión"), and recent changes of the past decade. Namely, in 2012, the government of el Salvador issued a decree declaring June 17 as a new annual non-working public holiday in El Salvador to mark Fathers' Day, to be observed by both the public and private sectors ("un privilegio del que gocen no solo los empleados públicos sino que abarque también al privado"). And, in 2016, El Salvador's legislative assembly approved a bill that declared that the annual El Salvador non-working public sector holiday on May 10, to commemorate Mother's Day (Día de la Madre), would henceforth be a fully national non-working public holiday, for both the private and public sectors of El Salvador ("asueto remunerado para el sector público y privado").
Kuwait Isra Wal Miraj Public Holiday January 18 Kuwait Civil Service Commission (Kuwait City) The Kuwaiti Civil Service Commission has announced a public sector holiday on Sunday, January 18, 2026, for all ministries, government departments, public authorities and state institutions to observe Isra Wal Miraj (the Prophet's Ascension). As per the aforementioned announcement, official working hours will resume on Monday, January 19, 2026. Recall that, since 2007, weekends in Kuwait are observed on Friday and Saturday.
Kuwait Isra Wal Miraj Public Holiday January 18 Kuwait Civil Service Commission (Kuwait City) The Kuwaiti Civil Service Commission has announced a public sector holiday on Sunday, January 18, 2026, for all ministries, government departments, public authorities and state institutions to observe Isra Wal Miraj (the Prophet's Ascension). As per the aforementioned announcement, official working hours will resume on Monday, January 19, 2026. Recall that, since 2007, weekends in Kuwait are observed on Friday and Saturday.
Philippines Declare January 9 Public Holiday In Manila Philippine Information Agency (Manila) The Public Information Office (MPIO) of the Philippines'capital city of Manila has announced a public sector holiday in Manila on Friday, January 9, 2026, for the Feast of Jesus Nazareno. As per the aforementioned announcement, "In line with Executive Order No. 1, Series of 2026, Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso suspends classes in all levels, both public and private, whether online or face-to-face, and work in government offices in the City of Manila on Friday, January 9, 2026, in celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene". The MPIO did add that the suspension of work in national government offices and private companies in the City of Manila would be left to the discretion of their respective management. January 9 was similarly declared a special non-working holiday in the City of Manila in 2025, 2024, 2023 and 2017. In 2019, House Bill 8812 was filed by Quezon City Representative Alfred Vargas, in the Philippines House of Representatives, which would have declared January 9 as a nationwide annual non-working public holiday in the Philippines, to celebrate Feast of Black Nazarene. But this bill died in commission.
Philippines Declare January 9 Public Holiday In Manila Philippine Information Agency (Manila) The Public Information Office (MPIO) of the Philippines'capital city of Manila has announced a public sector holiday in Manila on Friday, January 9, 2026, for the Feast of Jesus Nazareno. As per the aforementioned announcement, "In line with Executive Order No. 1, Series of 2026, Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso suspends classes in all levels, both public and private, whether online or face-to-face, and work in government offices in the City of Manila on Friday, January 9, 2026, in celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene". The MPIO did add that the suspension of work in national government offices and private companies in the City of Manila would be left to the discretion of their respective management. January 9 was similarly declared a special non-working holiday in the City of Manila in 2025, 2024, 2023 and 2017. In 2019, House Bill 8812 was filed by Quezon City Representative Alfred Vargas, in the Philippines House of Representatives, which would have declared January 9 as a nationwide annual non-working public holiday in the Philippines, to celebrate Feast of Black Nazarene. But this bill died in commission.
Scotland Considering June 15 Public Holiday The Devolved Government for Scotland (Edinburgh) Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has announced that he will propose to the Privy Council that a one-off public holiday (locally called a bank holiday) be proclaimed to mark Scotland’s participation in the World Cup for the first time since 1998. As per the First Minister's announcement, Monday, June 15, 2026, would be proclaimed a public holiday on the day after Scotland plays Haiti ("I am taking steps to ensure the Monday after our opening game should be national bank holiday, so that - no matter the outcome of the match - we can all come together to share the occasion"). Note that the move would, in principle, only affect staff directly employed by the Scottish government; like the St Andrews' Day bank holiday, other employers would not be compelled to observe it. However, the Devolved Government for Scotland official website does specify that "This will allow individuals, businesses and other organisations in Scotland to celebrate after the men’s team play their opening game against Haiti in Boston". Bank holidays are set under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, although the relevant powers were devolved by the Scotland Act 1998.
Scotland Considering June 15 Public Holiday The Devolved Government for Scotland (Edinburgh) Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has announced that he will propose to the Privy Council that a one-off public holiday (locally called a bank holiday) be proclaimed to mark Scotland’s participation in the World Cup for the first time since 1998. As per the First Minister's announcement, Monday, June 15, 2026, would be proclaimed a public holiday on the day after Scotland plays Haiti ("I am taking steps to ensure the Monday after our opening game should be national bank holiday, so that - no matter the outcome of the match - we can all come together to share the occasion"). Note that the move would, in principle, only affect staff directly employed by the Scottish government; like the St Andrews' Day bank holiday, other employers would not be compelled to observe it. However, the Devolved Government for Scotland official website does specify that "This will allow individuals, businesses and other organisations in Scotland to celebrate after the men’s team play their opening game against Haiti in Boston". Bank holidays are set under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, although the relevant powers were devolved by the Scotland Act 1998.
Andaman and Nicobar Asked To Declare Makar Sankranti Public Holiday Office of the Labour Commissioner of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Union Territory (Port Blair) The Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS) umbrella organization has formally called on the Lt Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to declare Makar Sankranti as a public holiday on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Recall that, last October, the Hindu Rashtra Shakti had similarly called on the Lt Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to declare Chhath Puja as a public holiday on October 28, 2025. Currently, the 2026 Makar Sankranti is listed as a restricted holiday on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, as per last November's vide notification No. 91/2025/F. No.M-13/18/2022-GA-Section-Sectt., signed by Rajeshwar Lall, Assistant Secretary, by order of the Lieutenant Governor.
Andaman and Nicobar Asked To Declare Makar Sankranti Public Holiday Office of the Labour Commissioner of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Union Territory (Port Blair) The Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS) umbrella organization has formally called on the Lt Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to declare Makar Sankranti as a public holiday on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Recall that, last October, the Hindu Rashtra Shakti had similarly called on the Lt Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to declare Chhath Puja as a public holiday on October 28, 2025. Currently, the 2026 Makar Sankranti is listed as a restricted holiday on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, as per last November's vide notification No. 91/2025/F. No.M-13/18/2022-GA-Section-Sectt., signed by Rajeshwar Lall, Assistant Secretary, by order of the Lieutenant Governor.
Cuba Declares January 5-6 National Mourning Days Órgano Oficial del Comité Central del Partido Comunista de Cuba (Granma) The President of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, has issued the Presidential Decree 1147 which declares "two days of National Mourning, from 6:00 am on January 5th until midnight on January 6th, 2026" following the US intervention in Venezuela. The aforementioned Presidential Decree 1147, was issued in line with the provisions of Article 125 of the Constitution of the Republic of Cuba and Article 24, paragraph x), of Law 136 "Of the President and Vice President of the Republic of Cuba" and Article 128, paragraph ñ), of the Constitution of the Republic of Cuba, and in its third article states that "During the period of National Mourning, public shows and festive activities are suspended", stopping short of declaring a cessation of public sector or private sector activities.
Cuba Declares January 5-6 National Mourning Days Órgano Oficial del Comité Central del Partido Comunista de Cuba (Granma) The President of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, has issued the Presidential Decree 1147 which declares "two days of National Mourning, from 6:00 am on January 5th until midnight on January 6th, 2026" following the US intervention in Venezuela. The aforementioned Presidential Decree 1147, was issued in line with the provisions of Article 125 of the Constitution of the Republic of Cuba and Article 24, paragraph x), of Law 136 "Of the President and Vice President of the Republic of Cuba" and Article 128, paragraph ñ), of the Constitution of the Republic of Cuba, and in its third article states that "During the period of National Mourning, public shows and festive activities are suspended", stopping short of declaring a cessation of public sector or private sector activities.
Egypt Declares January 7 Public Holiday For Coptic Christmas Egypt State Information Service (Cairo) Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, has declared Wednesday, January 7, 2026, as an official paid holiday on the occasion of Coptic Christmas. As per the aforementioned decree, the public holiday applies to "to employees of ministries, government departments, public authorities, local administration units, public sector companies, and public business sector companies". Recall that, since 2020, the Egyptian government has moved most mid-week public holidays to the nearest Thursday, except for Eid El-Fitr, Eid El-Adha, and Coptic Christmas.
Egypt Declares January 7 Public Holiday For Coptic Christmas Egypt State Information Service (Cairo) Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, has declared Wednesday, January 7, 2026, as an official paid holiday on the occasion of Coptic Christmas. As per the aforementioned decree, the public holiday applies to "to employees of ministries, government departments, public authorities, local administration units, public sector companies, and public business sector companies". Recall that, since 2020, the Egyptian government has moved most mid-week public holidays to the nearest Thursday, except for Eid El-Fitr, Eid El-Adha, and Coptic Christmas.
Dominica 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica (Office of the Prime Minister) The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica has released its annual official list of the Dominica bank holidays and non-working public holidays in Dominica, for the upcoming calendar year 2026. The aforementioned list of 2026 bank holidays and public holidays does not contain any errors, this year. Recall that, last year, when the Government of Dominica released its list of 2025 bank holidays and public holidays, we mentioned that the list contained an error in the observance date of the Independence Day public holiday, which we expected to be corrected in the coming weeks, as was the case in 2015 and 2016. The error in the list of 2025 bank holidays and public holidays was fixed in an April 2025 announcement.
Dominica 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica (Office of the Prime Minister) The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica has released its annual official list of the Dominica bank holidays and non-working public holidays in Dominica, for the upcoming calendar year 2026. The aforementioned list of 2026 bank holidays and public holidays does not contain any errors, this year. Recall that, last year, when the Government of Dominica released its list of 2025 bank holidays and public holidays, we mentioned that the list contained an error in the observance date of the Independence Day public holiday, which we expected to be corrected in the coming weeks, as was the case in 2015 and 2016. The error in the list of 2025 bank holidays and public holidays was fixed in an April 2025 announcement.
Eswatini Declares Incwala Public Holiday On January 6 Government of Swaziland Ministry of Home Affairs (Mbabane) The Minister for Home Affairs of the Kingdom of eSwatini, Princess Lindiwe, on instruction from King Mswati III, has announced that the main Incwala ceremony would occur on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, a date that has been declared as a public holiday in eSwatini. As per the aforementioned announcement, made at the Ngabezweni Royal Residence, earlier today, government ministries, businesses and institutions will suspend normal operations on the day, except for essential services. Due to the complex nature of the rule used to specify the date of the Incwala main day, and its related public holiday, the Incwala public holiday sometimes occurs twice in a year (as will be the case in 2026, 2029, 2032, 2034, 2037, 2040, ...). On the other hand some years it does not occur at all, as was the case in 2025, and will be the case in 2028, 2033, 2026, 2039, 2044, ... Recall that, prior to 2018, eSwatini was called Swaziland.
Eswatini Declares Incwala Public Holiday On January 6 Government of Swaziland Ministry of Home Affairs (Mbabane) The Minister for Home Affairs of the Kingdom of eSwatini, Princess Lindiwe, on instruction from King Mswati III, has announced that the main Incwala ceremony would occur on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, a date that has been declared as a public holiday in eSwatini. As per the aforementioned announcement, made at the Ngabezweni Royal Residence, earlier today, government ministries, businesses and institutions will suspend normal operations on the day, except for essential services. Due to the complex nature of the rule used to specify the date of the Incwala main day, and its related public holiday, the Incwala public holiday sometimes occurs twice in a year (as will be the case in 2026, 2029, 2032, 2034, 2037, 2040, ...). On the other hand some years it does not occur at all, as was the case in 2025, and will be the case in 2028, 2033, 2026, 2039, 2044, ... Recall that, prior to 2018, eSwatini was called Swaziland.
Tasmania Releases 2028 Public Holidays Tasmanian Government Media Releases (Hobart) The Workplace Standards Tasmania of Australia's State of Tasmania, has released its annual list of official 2028 non-working public holidays and bank holidays, in line with the 2011 Clarification on Tasmanian Public Holidays press release, which re-stated the terms of the Statutory Holidays Act 2000, as amended by the Statutory Holidays Amendment Bill 2010. The following footnotes clarify the observance of day in lieu public holidays in Tasmania; "if 25 December is a on a Saturday, then both the Saturday and the Monday following are holidays", "if 25 December falls on a Sunday, then both the Sunday and the Tuesday following are holidays", "if Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, then Monday is the public holiday", "if Boxing Day falls on a Sunday, then Tuesday is the public holiday", and "When Anzac Day falls on Saturday or Sunday, no substitute or additional holiday is observed". Finally, the aforementioned list of 2028 public holidays in Tasmania also contains a listing of all the regional public holidays within Tasmania, namely: Devonport Cup, Royal Hobart Regatta, Launceston Cup, King Island Show, AGFEST, Burnie Show, Royal Launceston Show, Flinders Island Show, Royal Hobart Show, Recreation Day, and Devonport Show Day. Recall that, in April 2024, it was reported that the Devonport Show public holiday of Australia's State of Tasmania might move from its current observance at the end of November to another time of the year. But, apparently this has not been implemented in the aforementioned list of 2028 Tasmanian public holidays (or in the current lists of 2026 and 2027 public holidays).
Tasmania Releases 2028 Public Holidays Tasmanian Government Media Releases (Hobart) The Workplace Standards Tasmania of Australia's State of Tasmania, has released its annual list of official 2028 non-working public holidays and bank holidays, in line with the 2011 Clarification on Tasmanian Public Holidays press release, which re-stated the terms of the Statutory Holidays Act 2000, as amended by the Statutory Holidays Amendment Bill 2010. The following footnotes clarify the observance of day in lieu public holidays in Tasmania; "if 25 December is a on a Saturday, then both the Saturday and the Monday following are holidays", "if 25 December falls on a Sunday, then both the Sunday and the Tuesday following are holidays", "if Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, then Monday is the public holiday", "if Boxing Day falls on a Sunday, then Tuesday is the public holiday", and "When Anzac Day falls on Saturday or Sunday, no substitute or additional holiday is observed". Finally, the aforementioned list of 2028 public holidays in Tasmania also contains a listing of all the regional public holidays within Tasmania, namely: Devonport Cup, Royal Hobart Regatta, Launceston Cup, King Island Show, AGFEST, Burnie Show, Royal Launceston Show, Flinders Island Show, Royal Hobart Show, Recreation Day, and Devonport Show Day. Recall that, in April 2024, it was reported that the Devonport Show public holiday of Australia's State of Tasmania might move from its current observance at the end of November to another time of the year. But, apparently this has not been implemented in the aforementioned list of 2028 Tasmanian public holidays (or in the current lists of 2026 and 2027 public holidays).
Thailand Announces Date Of 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony Public Holiday Thai News Agency (Bangkok) The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the government of Thailand has announced the date of the 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony annual non-working public holiday, as Monday, May 11, 2026. Until 2010, the government of Thailand used to declare the date of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday a few weeks only before the actual event. But then, until 2018, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday was announced well in advance, with one exception, in 2019, probably due to an error in the announced date of the 2018 Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday date which was moved at the last minute to Monday, May 14, 2018, as compared to the previously-announced date of Thursday, May 10, 2018.
Thailand Announces Date Of 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony Public Holiday Thai News Agency (Bangkok) The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the government of Thailand has announced the date of the 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony annual non-working public holiday, as Monday, May 11, 2026. Until 2010, the government of Thailand used to declare the date of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday a few weeks only before the actual event. But then, until 2018, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday was announced well in advance, with one exception, in 2019, probably due to an error in the announced date of the 2018 Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday date which was moved at the last minute to Monday, May 14, 2018, as compared to the previously-announced date of Thursday, May 10, 2018.
