How Public Holidays Work in Germany
Public holidays in Germany are regulated by federal and state law. There are 9 nationwide holidays, with regional variations bringing the total to 9-14 days depending on the federal state.
Germany Holidays
2025 Holiday Calendar
| Date | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31 | New Year's Day | National |
| Apr 2 | Good Friday | National |
| Apr 5 | Easter Monday | National |
| Apr 30 | Labor Day | National |
| May 13 | Feast of the Ascension of Jesus Christ | National |
| May 24 | Pentecost Monday | National |
| Oct 2 | German Unity Day | National |
| Dec 24 | First Day of Christmastide | National |
| Dec 25 | Second Day of Christmastide | National |
How Public Holidays Work in Germany
Important Points
- 9 holidays recognized nationwide, including religious and civil events. Additional regional holidays vary by Bundesland.
- Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and other states observe additional Catholic holidays. Berlin and other states have specific regional observances.
- If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it is lost and no substitute day is granted unless specified by a collective agreement.
At a Glance: Common Holidays
German Unity Day
OCT 3
The national day of Germany, commemorating the reunification of East and West Germany on October 3, 1990.
Good Friday
VARIES
A Christian holiday observed nationwide. The date varies each year as it depends on the lunar calendar.
Christmas Day
DEC 25
December 25th. A major Christian holiday celebrated nationwide with family gatherings.
Impact on Payroll & Leave
Public holidays in Germany require careful payroll management, especially regarding regional variations and Sunday work regulations.
Sunday and holiday work typically requires 25-50% premium pay or compensatory time off.
Strict daily rest periods (11 hours) must be maintained.
Public holidays do not reduce annual leave entitlement.
Different federal states have different numbers of public holidays affecting payroll calculations.
Are employees compensated if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
No. If a public holiday falls on Saturday or Sunday, there is no substitute day or additional compensation, unless specified by a collective agreement.
What happens if an employee falls ill during annual leave?
If the employee provides a medical certificate (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung), the sick days do not count as vacation days and the leave entitlement is restored.
Are public holidays paid time off?
Yes. Public holidays are paid non-working days for all employees. If required to work, employees receive premium pay or compensatory time off.