Move to Spain

As the new year unfolds, expats and residents in Spain are looking forward to a calendar filled with public holidays, each offering a unique opportunity to celebrate and enjoy some well-deserved breaks. Here’s a detailed look at what 2025 has in store.

National and Regional Holidays

Spain is known for its rich cultural and festive calendar, and 2025 is no exception. The year will see 12 public holidays, a mix of national, regional, and local celebrations.

National Holidays

January 1: New Year's Day (Año Nuevo) - A universal celebration marking the beginning of the year.
January 6: Three Kings' Day (Epifanía del Señor) - A significant holiday where children receive gifts, similar to Christmas in other countries.
March 19: Saint Joseph's Day (Fallas de San José) - Celebrated in many regions, especially in Valencia.
April 17: Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo) and April 18: Good Friday (Viernes Santo) - Key dates in the Easter week.
May 1: Workers Day (Fiesta del Trabajo) - A day to honor workers and labor rights.
August 15: Assumption of Mary (Asunción de la Virgen) - A major Catholic holiday.
October 12: National Day of Spain (Día de la Hispanidad) - Celebrating the discovery of America and Spanish heritage.
November 1: All Saints' Day (Fiesta de Todos los Santos) - A day to honor the deceased.
December 6: Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución) - Commemorating the adoption of the Spanish Constitution in 1978.
December 8: Immaculate Conception (La Inmaculada Concepción) - A significant Catholic holiday.
December 25: Christmas Day (Navidad del Señor) - One of the most celebrated holidays globally.

Regional and Local Holidays

In addition to national holidays, each autonomous community and municipality has its own set of regional and local holidays.

Andalusia

For example, in Andalusia, residents will enjoy February 28: Andalusia Day, a regional holiday that falls on a Friday, creating a long weekend[2].

Valencia

In the Valencian Community, October 9: Day of the Valencian Community (Día de la Comunidad Valenciana) is a significant regional holiday[1].

Madrid

The Community of Madrid celebrates May 2: Madrid Regional Holiday and May 15: San Isidro, the patron saint of Madrid[4].

Long Weekends

One of the highlights of Spain's public holiday calendar in 2025 is the numerous long weekends. Here are a few notable ones:

January 6: Three Kings' Day falls on a Monday, kicking off the year with a long weekend.
February 28: Andalusia Day in Andalusia creates a long weekend.
April 17-18: Easter Week provides a four-day weekend in many regions.
August 15: Assumption of Mary falls on a Friday, leading to another long weekend.
October 13: Transfer of the National Day of Spain holiday in Andalusia moves the celebration to Monday, creating a long weekend[2].
December 6-9: With Constitution Day on Friday and Immaculate Conception on Sunday (observed on Monday), this period offers an extended break[3].

Impact on Daily Life

During these public holidays, many businesses, shops, and public offices will either close or operate on reduced hours. Shopping centers and larger retail outlets might remain open, especially during long weekends, but it is advisable to check their schedules in advance to avoid any inconvenience[1][3].

Cultural and Festive Activities

These holidays are not just days off but also opportunities to immerse in Spanish culture. From the vibrant festivals of Valencia to the traditional celebrations in Andalusia, each holiday offers a unique experience. Whether it's attending cultural events, trying local cuisine, or participating in traditional festivities, there's something for everyone.

As you plan your year in Spain, make sure to mark these dates and take full advantage of the festive spirit and the well-deserved breaks that come with living in this vibrant country.