Italy Calendar 2026: Public Holidays, Festivals, and Special Observances Guide

Italy Calendar 2026 – Holidays, Festivals & Special Days

Italy’s calendar reflects the country’s deep connection to history, religion, and civic identity. Public holidays are observed nationwide, while festivals and special observances vary by region but strongly influence daily life, tourism, and business schedules.

How Public Holidays Work in Italy

Unlike some federal systems, Italy applies national public holidays uniformly across the country. When a holiday falls on a weekend, there is no substitute weekday off.

In 2026, Italy has exactly 12 national public holidays.

National Public Holidays in Italy 2026

Table: Italy Public Holidays 2026

Total national public holidays in 2026: 12 days

Italy Public Holidays 2026

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- 2025 Italy Calendar - Full List of Public Holidays, Observances: Meaning, Calebrations

Month-by-Month Highlights

January

• New Year’s Day (Jan 1) – Nationwide holiday

• Epiphany (Jan 6) – Celebrated with La Befana traditions

April

• Easter (Apr 5–6) – One of Italy’s most important religious periods

• Liberation Day (Apr 25) – National remembrance of WWII liberation

May

• Labour Day (May 1) – Major public holiday with concerts and events

June

• Republic Day (Jun 2) – Italy’s national day with military parades

August

• Ferragosto (Aug 15) – Peak summer holiday

November

• All Saints’ Day (Nov 1) – Religious observance

December

• Immaculate Conception (Dec 8)

• Christmas Day (Dec 25)

• Saint Stephen’s Day (Dec 26)

Major Festivals in Italy 2026 (Not Public Holidays)

Italy’s international reputation is shaped by festivals that, while not legal holidays, significantly affect tourism and public life.

Venice Carnival

Held in Venice, Carnival takes place in February, featuring:

• Elaborate masks and costumes

• Historical pageants

• Events along the Grand Canal

It is one of the world’s most iconic pre-Lenten festivals.

Easter Celebrations in Rome

In Rome, Easter includes major religious ceremonies, attracting pilgrims and visitors from around the world.

Republic Day Parade – Rome

On June 2, a large military parade takes place along Via dei Fori Imperiali, symbolizing modern Italian statehood.

Ferragosto Summer Festivals

Ferragosto transforms Italy in August:

• Businesses close

• Cities empty

• Coastal and rural tourism peaks

It remains the single most important summer holiday in Italian culture.

Christmas Markets and Nativity Scenes

From late November through early January, cities such as Florence and Naples host Christmas markets and traditional presepi (nativity scenes).

Special Observance Days (No Public Holiday)

These days are widely recognized but do not provide legal time off:

• Valentine’s Day – February 14

• Father’s Day (St. Joseph’s Day) – March 19

• Mother’s Day – May 10 (second Sunday of May)

• Local patron saint days (vary by city)

Practical Planning Tips for 2026

• Travelers: Expect high prices and crowds during Easter, Ferragosto, and Christmas.

• Businesses: August and late December see widespread closures.

• Employees: May and early June offer the best opportunities for extended breaks.

• International partners: Avoid scheduling critical meetings around Ferragosto.

Why Italy’s 2026 Calendar Matters

Italy’s calendar is not just administrative. It reflects:

• Strong Catholic traditions

• Key historical milestones

• A cultural emphasis on family and seasonal rhythms

Understanding these dates helps avoid logistical issues and enhances cultural awareness.

Final Summary

The Italy Calendar2026 includes:

• 12 national public holidays

• No substitute days when holidays fall on weekends

• Globally recognized festivals shaping tourism and business cycles

For travelers, companies, and residents alike, knowing Italy’s holiday structure is essential for effective planning in 2026.