Top 30 Countries with the Highest and Lowest Number of Public Holidays in the World

What is Public Holiday?

Public holidays are specific days that governments designate as non-working days for employees. These days are meant to acknowledge important events, traditions, or national celebrations. It is crucial for both employers and employees to comprehend them, as they have an impact on work schedules, compensation, and staffing levels.

Nations commemorate national holidays for various reasons, such as religious rituals, national anniversaries, memorial occasions, or to honor a distinct historical event specific to the area.

Public holidays are typically designated by national legislation and are established as days when work is not required (although it is common for individuals to work on these days, often receiving increased compensation or an additional day off in return).

There is a significant variation in the number of public holidays observed by different countries. If you are considering moving abroad for work, it would be beneficial to research this subject.

This article will provide an overview of the countries that have the highest number of public holidays and those that have the lowest number of public holidays.

Learn more: Full List of State Holidays in the United States by Month: Dates and Celebrations

Top Country with the Most And Least Public Holidays in the World

Which Country Has the Most And Least Public Holidays in the World?

India and Colombia have one of the highest numbers of public holidays in the world, with each country celebrating approximately 18-20 days per year.

Conversely, countries such as Mexico and China have one of the lowest numbers of public holidays globally, with only 7-8 days per year.

Public holidays have a substantial impact on the financial and business sectors. Public holidays usually result in the closure of major stock exchanges like the NYSE, NASDAQ, and London Stock Exchange. Consequently, there are variations in the levels of trading activity and the availability of funds in the market prior to and following these holidays.

Although certain nations mandate that employers offer paid leave on designated public holidays, the United States does not have such a requirement. Conversely, the US government acknowledges 10 federal holidays, thereby allowing inpidual employers to determine whether their employees should be given the day off with compensation. The discrepancy in holiday policies underscores the diversity in work culture and labor laws globally.

Public holidays can provide significant benefits to specific industries, such as retail, hospitality, and tourism, as they frequently experience substantial profits during these times. This is due to the fact that individuals have a tendency to engage in more travel, dining out, and shopping activities during holidays.

Top 20 Countries with the Most Public Holidays in the World

1. Nepal

Number of Public Holidays: 39

It is a small country between the Himalayas and the lush plains of the Indian subcontinent. Nepal is a beautiful and culturally rich place. In spite of that, it is known for one thing only: the huge number of holidays it has.

With 39 holidays celebrated every year, Nepal has the most public holidays of any country in the world.

Nepal has a lot of holidays because of its religious and cultural background. Nepal has many festivals all through the year because it is mostly a Hindu and Buddhist country.

This time of year, the country stops and people get together to celebrate and feel like they are part of a community.

2. Myanmar

Number of Public Holidays: 32

There are 32 public holidays in Myanmar every year. For people in Myanmar, the Thingyan Water Festival, which marks the traditional New Year, is one of the most important holidays. During these four days, people get together to wash away their sins, dance, sing, and have water fights to welcome the new year.

Myanmar Independence Day is another important holiday. It marks the day that the country got rid of British colonial rule in 1948. On this day, there are parades, ceremonies where the flag is raised, and speeches by public officials.

3. Iran

Number of Public Holidays: 26

Iran is a Muslim country that has 26 public holidays every year. It's clear that the country has a strong Islamic and national identity because these holidays include both religious and national celebrations.

Nowruz, the Islamic New Year, is the most important holiday in Iran. Eid al-Fitr is another important holiday. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, during which people fast.

Iran also has a number of national holidays. One of these is Iranian Revolution Day, which remembers the revolution in 1979 that got rid of the monarchy and set up the Islamic Republic.

4. Sri Lanka

Number of Public Holidays: 25

Sri Lanka has 25 public holidays a year, and they are all different kinds of celebrations for Christians, Buddhists, and Hindus.

Sri Lanka's Sinhalese New Year, or Aluth Avurudda, is one of the most important holidays. On the Sinhalese calendar, it is the start of a new year.

The Buddhist New Year, or Wesak, is another important holiday. It marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha.

Sri Lanka also celebrates a number of Christian holidays, such as Easter and Christmas. People in the country who are Christian (about 7% of the population) celebrate these holidays.

5. Bangladesh

Number of Public Holidays: 22

Bangladesh, a country characterized by its religious and cultural customs, officially observes 22 public holidays annually.

In Bangladesh, the most prominent holiday is Eid al-Fitr, while another significant holiday is Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Adha commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as a demonstration of obedience to Allah.

Independence Day, commemorating Bangladesh's secession from Pakistan in 1971, is the third officially acknowledged holiday in the nation.

What is Eid-al-Fitr: Date, Different Celebration Around the World

6. Egypt

Number of Public Holidays: 22

The Egyptian population benefits from a total of 22 public holidays annually. A notable feature is the amalgamation of Islamic and Christian customs, leading to a varied array of holidays throughout the year.

Egyptians widely observe Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Mawlid al-Nabi is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated in Egypt to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

In addition, Egypt observes Christian holidays and national occasions, including Revolution Day on July 23rd, which commemorates the dethronement of the monarchy in 1952.

7. India

Number of Public Holidays: 21

India's public holidays are a reflection of its abundant cultural heritage, religious customs, and historical importance. India observes a total of 21 public holidays each year.

Public holidays are officially designated for Hindu festivals like Diwali, Holi, Navratri, and Dussehra throughout the country. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are Islamic festivals, hold significant importance as public holidays for the Muslim community in India.

India also observes national occasions such as Independence Day on August 15th and Republic Day on January 26th. These holidays commemorate India's struggle for independence and the adoption of its constitution.

8. Malaysia

Number of Public Holidays: 21

Malaysia's public holidays are notable because they honor and celebrate many religious holidays, such as those in Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity.

In Malaysia, Islamic holidays like Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Haji are important because they mark the end of Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage, respectively.

Malaysia has several important Hindu holidays, such as Thaipusam, Deepavali, and Wesak. It is also a public holiday for Christian holidays like Christmas and Good Friday and Buddhist holidays like Vesak Day.

Malaysia has a total of 21 holidays a year, but the number can range from 21 to 25 depending on the government.

2025 Malaysia Calendar - A Full List of the National Holidays and Observances: Dates & Celebrations

9. Cambodia

Number of Public Holidays: 21

Cambodia has a total of 21 public holidays. The primary holidays are derived from Buddhist celebrations, including Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), Pchum Ben, and Visak Bochea.

The Khmer New Year signifies the conclusion of the agricultural period and is a period dedicated to the gathering of families. Pchum Ben is a festival that is specifically observed to honor and remember deceased family members by making offerings and offering prayers. Visak Bochea is a celebration that honors the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.

Another significant public holiday in Cambodia is Independence Day, which falls on November 9th.

10. Liechtenstein

Number of Public Holidays: 20

Every year, 20 holidays are observed in Liechtenstein that are important to the people's culture, history, and religion.

In Liechtenstein, National Day, which is held on August 15, is the most memorable public holiday. Today is a celebration of Prince Johann I's birthday. He united the principality in 1719.

In Liechtenstein, religious holidays are also very important. The Christian calendar tells us that Christmas, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, and Whit Monday are all public holidays.

Liechtenstein celebrates the Feast of the Assumption on August 15. This is a big day for Catholics in the country.

11. Argentina

Number of Public Holidays: 19

Holidays in Argentina

The people of Argentina have 19 public holidays a year. Independence Day, which is celebrated on July 9, is the most important one.

This holiday honors the day that the country officially broke away from Spanish rule in 1816. Labour Day, which falls on May 1, is another important holiday.

Flag Day, which is held on June 20 to honor the death of Manuel Belgrano, who designed the country's flag, is another national holiday in Argentina.

Because 92% of people in Argentina are Catholic, religious holidays like Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter Monday are officially public holidays.

12. Lebanon

Number of Public Holidays: 19

Independence Day on November 22nd is the most prominent public holiday in Lebanon. This holiday commemorates Lebanon's liberation from French Mandate rule in 1943.

Due to the country's diverse religious population, religious holidays have a significant impact on Lebanon's public holiday calendar. Significant religious festivals comprise Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Christmas.

Notwithstanding the difficulties posed by wars, conflicts, and economic instability, the Lebanese population benefits from 19 annual public holidays, which serve as peaceful opportunities.

13. Philippines

Number of Public Holidays: 18

Holidays in Philippines

The Philippines has 18 holidays that everyone is free to enjoy. Independence Day, which is celebrated on June 12, is the most well-known holiday in the Philippines. It marks the day that the country declared its independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898.

Because most people in the country are Catholic, religious holidays like Christmas and Easter are very important.

On the last Monday of August, National Heroes Day is held to honor people like Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio who were important to the Philippines as national heroes.

There are also All Saints' Day, New Year's Day, Eid al-Fitr (the feast of Ramadan), and Eid al-Adha (the feast of sacrifice).

2025 Philippines Calendar - Full List of Public Holidays And Observances: Dates & Celebrations

14. Colombia

Number of Public Holidays: 18

Colombia has 18 official holidays every year. Independence Day is July 20. It marks the day that Colombia was freed from Spanish colonial rule in 1810.

In this mostly Catholic country, Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a big deal. Religious events are held on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Palm Sunday.

In Colombia, October 12 is Battle of Boyaca Day, Columbus Day, All Saints' Day, and All Souls' Day. It is also Dia de la Raza, or "Day of the Race."

15. Sweden

Number of Public Holidays: 16

In Sweden, public holidays consist of Midsummer, which is observed by erecting maypoles and engaging in dancing, symbolizing the delight of the summer season. Simultaneously, the National Day celebrates the ascension of King Gustav Vasa to the throne in 1523, signifying the initiation of contemporary Sweden. The country also observes the celebrations of Christmas and Easter.

16. Thailand

Number of Public Holidays: 16

Thailand's prominent holidays comprise the King's Birthday, which is also celebrated as the country's Father's Day, and Songkran, the customary Thai New Year. Likewise, the Queen's Birthday is observed as Mother's Day.

17. Japan

Number of Public Holidays: 16

Japan has a total of 16 holidays, one of which is Golden Week. Golden Week consists of four national holidays that occur within one week, resulting in an extended period of vacation for the citizens. The Emperor's Birthday is a day that fills the nation with pride and is celebrated, while Children's Day showcases carp-shaped kites that symbolize strength and achievement.

18. Pakistan

Number of Public Holidays: 16

Pakistan commemorates significant national holidays, including Independence Day, which marks its liberation from British colonial rule, and Pakistan Day, which honors the Lahore Resolution. Religious holidays such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are also celebrated.

19. Indonesia

Number of Public Holidays: 16

Indonesia's public holidays are a reflection of its diverse and multi-religious society. Indonesians commemorate Independence Day by conducting flag-hoisting ceremonies, while Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, is observed through contemplative silence. Eid Al-Fitr and Christmas are both officially acknowledged as public holidays on a national level. Indonesia ranks in the top 20 countries worldwide in terms of the highest number of public holidays.

20. Kazakhstan

Number of Public Holidays: 16

Kazakhstan commemorates its Independence Day with immense pride. Unity Day promotes cohesion among the various ethnic groups in Kazakhstan, while Nauryz, the Persian New Year, is a festive celebration in the spring that features concerts, street food, and traditional games.

10 Countries with the Lowest Number of Public Holidays

Below is a compilation of the nations that possess the smallest number of public holidays globally:

1. Switzerland

Number of public holidays: 7–15 depending on the canton

If you want to know which country has the fewest holidays, it's Switzerland. Not always what you'd expect from Europe's most powerful country, would you say?

Some of Switzerland's public holidays are Ascension Day (May 26), Swiss National Day (August 1), Christmas, and New Year's Day. Other holidays are set by each canton. Different cantons have different lengths of time for vacation. Vaud and Valais only allow 7 days, while Fribourg and Lucerne allow 15.

Most of the time, public holidays are based on Christian holidays, but some cantons also celebrate their own holidays.

2. Mexico

Number of public holidays: 8

There are statutory holidays, civic holidays, and celebrations in Mexico, but only the statutory holidays are officially public holidays.

Christmas Day and New Year's Day are legal holidays in Mexico. On March 21, Benito Juárez's birthday, and on November 20, Revolution Day, are also celebrations.

3. Ecuador

Number of public holidays: 8–9 depending on the city

There aren't many public holidays in Ecuador, but the ones that are there are all about the country's strong sense of national pride.

Aside from Christmas, Easter, and New Year's Day, other holidays in Ecuador honor national events like the Battle of Pichincha on May 24, the Independence of Guayaquil on October 9, and the Independence of Cuenca on November 3.

4. United Kingdom

Number of public holidays: 8 for England, Scotland and Wales; 10 for Northern Ireland

London - The Capital Of United Kingdom. Photo: timeout.com.

People in the UK call their public holidays "bank holidays." Most of them are religious holidays, like Easter and Christmas, even though more and more people say they don't belong to any religion as time goes on.

Holidays like Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day are shared by the four countries that make up the sovereign state. Scotland has its own holiday, St. Andrew's Day, and Northern Ireland celebrates St. Patrick's Day and the Battle of the Boyne.

Full List of U.K 2024 Bank Holiday Dates

5. Canada

Number of public holidays: 8–12 depending on the province

Canada has a total of five nationwide statutory holidays, namely New Year's Day, Good Friday, Canada Day (July 1), Labor Day (the first Monday of September), and Christmas Day.

Subsequently, every province designates a specific quantity of holidays. Manitoba and Quebec have the lowest number of designated days, with three public holidays each.

6. Brazil

Number of public holidays: 9

Brazil celebrates numerous religious and ethnic holidays, yet it officially recognizes only nine public holidays. These occasions comprise the commemoration of Tiradentes' demise on April 21, the celebration of Independence Day on September 7, and the observance of Republic Day on November 15.

Public holidays are also proclaimed on the occasion of a biennial general election.

7. Taiwan

Number of public holidays: 9

Taiwan, officially referred to as the Republic of China, is an East Asian country that has maintained a distinct government from mainland China (the People's Republic of China) since the Chinese Civil War in 1949.

The official public holidays in this country consist of Lunar New Year's Day, Peace Memorial Day, and Children's Day. The latter was established with the purpose of safeguarding and defending the human rights of children.

8. Belgium

Number of public holidays: 10

Belgium is a country located in Western Europe, renowned for its beer, chocolate, and Renaissance architecture. However, it is not known for having a generous number of public holidays. Typically, employees in Belgium are entitled to 10 public holidays annually. However, certain Belgian employers may grant an additional day off for certain special occasions.

The fixed public holidays in Belgium are May Day, Belgian National Day, Assumption Day, and All Saint's Day.

9. Estonia

Number of public holidays: 10

There are two types of holidays in Estonia: public holidays and national holidays. Public holidays give people a day off, while national holidays do not.

Independence Day is on February 24, Victory Day is on June 23, Midsummer is on June 24, and Independence Restoration Day is on August 20. These are all national holidays that are based on major Christian holidays.

10. Republic of Ireland

Number of public holidays: 10

In the past, most people in Northern Ireland were unionists who wanted to keep ties with Britain. But most people in Southern Ireland were Irish nationalists who wanted to be independent from Britain. That's why, after the civil war in 1922, the country was split into two separate countries.

Still, it's strange that the Republic of Ireland doesn't have a public holiday on its "birthday," which is December 6, the day the Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed. Instead, many of its public holidays are religious, like St. Stephen's Day, Christmas Day, and Easter Monday.

In Conclusion

Envision a realm where you have the opportunity to temporarily escape from the monotonous routine every couple of weeks, not merely for a brief respite, but for a complete day dedicated to merriment and rejuvenation.

Several countries have successfully implemented this aspiration, resulting in a significant number of official holidays listed on their calendars. From age-old religious festivities to contemporary celebrations of hard-earned liberties, these unique occasions unite individuals and offer a necessary respite from the pressures of daily existence.

When contemplating relocating for work overseas, it may be momentarily tempting to consider the potential number of public holidays you would enjoy in the new country.

Regardless of whether your desired career path leads you to Africa, Europe, or even Antarctica (where someone must study penguins!), the most crucial aspect is selecting a role that you are passionate about and an employer who can assist in fulfilling your professional requirements. This may include a higher level of responsibility, continuous learning, or any other goal you aspire to achieve.

2025 Jewish Calendar: Important Dates, Holidays, Observances and Celebrations Check out the full list of the Jewish holidays in 2025 and the most popular festivals and celebrations.

2025 Islamic Calendar: Important Dates, Holidays, Observances and Celebrations Let's explore the full list of the 2025 Islam calendar including observations, religious days, holidays, and popular celebrations.

2025 Julian Calendar: Important Dates, Holidays, Observances and Celebrations The Julian calendar is a solar calendar introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BCE, aiming to align the calendar year with the solar year. Here’s ...

2025 Gregorian Calendar: Important Dates, Holidays, Observances and Celebrations As we step into 2025, it's essential to mark our calendars with key dates, holidays, and observances that shape our year. This guide will help ...

German Calendar with the Special Days, Public Holidays, Observances And Celebrations Yearly calendar 2024 - 2025 - 2026 with public holidays, special days, international events for Germany.