Ever wondered which countries enjoy the most days off each year? Public holidays are a cherished part of every culture, offering time for celebration, reflection, or relaxation. From vibrant festivals to historic commemorations, countries with the most public holidays showcase their unique traditions and values.
List of Top 15 Countries with the Most Public Holidays
- Nepal
- Myanmar
- Iran
- Sri Lanka
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- India
- Malaysia
- Cambodia
- Liechtenstein
- Argentina
- Lebanon
- Philippines
- Colombia
- Hong Kong
Disclaimer: Best Diplomats is not an expert in this particular field. This data is taken from the World Population Review.
1- Nepal
Nepal, a small country between the Himalayas and the lush plains of the Indian subcontinent, is a land of beauty and cultural richness. Still, it is also known for something unique – its staggering number of public holidays.
Nepal is the nation that celebrates the most public holidays worldwide, with 39 holidays celebrated each year.
The secret behind Nepal’s holiday-filled calendar lies in its religious and cultural landscape. As a predominantly Hindu and Buddhist nation, Nepal celebrates a wide array of festivals throughout the year.
These holidays bring the country to a standstill and allow people to come together in the spirit of community and celebration.
2- Myanmar
Myanmar celebrates a total of 32 public holidays annually. One of the most significant holidays in Myanmar is the Thingyan Water Festival, which marks the traditional New Year. This four-day celebration is a time for people to come together, wash away their sins, and welcome the new year with water fights, music, and dancing.
Another important holiday is Myanmar Independence Day, which commemorates the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1948. Parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and speeches by public authorities are held on this day.
3- Iran
Iran, a Muslim country, observes a total of 26 public holidays annually. These holidays are a testament to the country’s strong Islamic and national identity, with a mix of religious and national celebrations.
The most significant holiday in Iran is the Islamic New Year, known as Nowruz. Another important holiday is Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
Iran also celebrates several national holidays, including the Iranian Revolution Day, which commemorates the 1979 revolution that overthrew the monarchy and established the Islamic Republic.
4- Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, a total of 25 public holidays are celebrated per year with a mixture of Christian, Buddhist, and Hindu festivities.
One of the most significant holidays in Sri Lanka is the Sinhalese New Year, known as Aluth Avurudda. It is the beginning of the new year on the Sinhalese calendar.
Another important holiday is the Buddhist New Year, known as Wesak, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha.
Sri Lanka also celebrates several Christian holidays, including Christmas and Easter. These holidays are observed by the country’s Christian minority, who make up around 7% of the population.
5- Bangladesh
Bangladesh, a nation with religious and cultural traditions, recognizes 22 public holidays a year.
The most significant holiday in Bangladesh is the Eid al-Fitr and another important holiday is the Eid al-Adha, which honors the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to Allah.
Independence Day, which honors Bangladesh’s separation from Pakistan in 1971, is the third recognized holiday in the country.
6- Egypt
Egyptian people enjoy 22 public holidays throughout the year. One significant aspect is the blend of Islamic and Christian traditions, which results in a diverse calendar of holidays.
Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are widely celebrated across Egypt. Another important Islamic holiday in Egypt is the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi).
Egypt also celebrates Christian holidays and national events such as Revolution Day on July 23rd, which marks the overthrow of the monarchy in 1952.
7- India
The public holidays in India reflect its rich heritage, religious traditions, and historical significance. India celebrates 21 public holidays annually.
Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Navratri, and Dussehra are declared public holidays across the country. Islamic festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are also important public holidays for the Muslim community in India.
India also celebrates national events like Independence Day on August 15th and Republic Day on January 26th. These holidays honor India’s freedom struggle and the adoption of its constitution.
8- Malaysia
The notable aspects of Malaysia’s public holidays are the recognition and celebration of various religious festivals, including Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity.
Islamic holidays such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Haji are significant in Malaysia, marking the end of Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage, respectively.
Thaipusam, Deepavali, and Wesak are important Hindu festivals in Malaysia. Buddhist festivals like Vesak Day and Christian holidays such as Christmas and Good Friday are also observed as public holidays.
In total, Malaysia recognizes 21 holidays per year, varying from 21 to 25 depending on the state authorities.
9- Cambodia
In Cambodia, there are 21 public holidays. The major holidays are based on Buddhist festivals such as Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), Pchum Ben, and Visak Bochea.
Khmer New Year marks the end of the harvest season and is a time for family reunions. Pchum Ben is dedicated to paying respects to deceased relatives through offerings and prayers. Visak Bochea commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.
Other important public holidays in Cambodia include Independence Day on November 9th.
10- Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein celebrates 20 public holidays annually that hold cultural, historical, and religious significance for its people.
The most memorable public holiday in Liechtenstein is National Day, celebrated on August 15th. This day commemorates the birthday of Prince Johann I, who unified the principality in 1719.
Religious holidays also hold importance in Liechtenstein. Christmas, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, and Whit Monday are public holidays that align with the Christian calendar.
On 15th August, Liechtenstein celebrates the Feast of the Assumption, which holds religious significance for Catholics in the country.
11- Argentina
The people of Argentina enjoy 19 public holidays throughout the year with the most significant public holiday, Independence Day, celebrated on July 9th.
This holiday commemorates the country’s declaration of independence from Spanish rule in 1816. Labour Day on May 1st is another essential public holiday.
Argentina also celebrates national holidays such as Flag Day on June 20th, honoring the death of Manuel Belgrano, who created the country’s flag.
Religious holidays like Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter Monday are considered public holidays due to 92 percent of Argentina’s predominantly Catholic population.
12- Lebanon
The most significant public holiday in Lebanon is Independence Day on November 22nd. This holiday reminds Lebanon’s independence from French Mandate rule in 1943.
Religious holidays also play a crucial role in Lebanon’s public holiday calendar due to its diverse religious population. Major religious holidays include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Christmas.
Despite the challenges of wars, conflicts, and economic uncertainty, the 19 public holidays per year provide Lebanese people with peaceful occasions.
13- Philippines
There are 18 public holidays celebrated in the Philippines. The most famous holiday in the Philippines is Independence Day on June 12th, celebrating the country’s declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898.
Religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter hold immense importance due to the predominantly Catholic population.
On the final Monday of August, National Heroes Day honors the national heroes of the Philippines, such as Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio.
Other holidays include New Year’s Day, Eid al-Fitr (the feast of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha (the feast of sacrifice), and All Saints’ Day.
14- Colombia
Colombia has declared 18 public holidays annually. Independence Day, celebrated on July 20th, marks Colombia’s liberation from Spanish colonial rule in 1810.
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a significant event in this primarily Catholic country. Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Palm Sunday are all honored with religious rituals.
Colombia also celebrates Dia de la Raza (Day of the Race) on October 12th, Battle of Boyaca Day, Columbus Day, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day.
15- Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s calendar is rich with public holidays, celebrating 17 holidays in one year. Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is a major celebration in Hong Kong.
The second important event is the Ching Ming Festival which honors ancestors with rituals such as grave cleaning, ancestor worship, and offerings of food and incense at ancestral gravesites.
The third is the Dragon Boat Festival which commemorates the life and death of poet Qu Yuan with dragon boat races and cultural performances across Hong Kong’s waterways.
Other holidays include National Day on October 1st, the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Christmas, Easter, New Year’s Day, and Chung Yeung Festival.
Why Are Public Holidays Crucial for Any Nation?
Public holidays are a powerful tool for promoting a sense of national unity and identity. They bring people together, regardless of their background, to commemorate events or individuals that have shaped the nation’s history and values. The shared experience helps to create a sense of belonging and pride, which can lead to greater social stability.
Public holidays can also have a positive impact on a nation’s economy, particularly through tourism. Many people take advantage of long weekends or extended holidays to travel, both domestically and internationally. The influx of tourists can provide a significant boost to local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Regular breaks from work are essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Public holidays provide an opportunity for people to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. This can lead to reduced stress levels, improved mental health, and increased productivity. Employees who feel valued and supported by their employers are more likely to be engaged and committed to their jobs.
Public holidays also play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage. Many holidays are associated with specific traditions, rituals, and practices that have been passed down through generations. By celebrating these holidays, people ensure that these cultural elements are not lost and continue to be an integral part of their identity.
| No. | Country | No. of Public Holidays |
| 1 | Nepal | 39 |
| 2 | Myanmar | 32 |
| 3 | Iran | 26 |
| 4 | Sri Lanka | 25 |
| 5 | Bangladesh | 22 |
| 6 | Egypt | 22 |
| 7 | India | 21 |
| 8 | Malaysia | 21 |
| 9 | Cambodia | 21 |
| 10 | Liechtenstein | 20 |
| 11 | Argentina | 19 |
| 12 | Lebanon | 19 |
| 13 | Philippines | 18 |
| 14 | Colombia | 18 |
| 15 | Hong Kong | 17 |
Conclusion
Who wouldn’t love more days to celebrate and unwind? Countries with the most public holidays highlight the cultural richness and historical depth of their people. These holidays not only provide a break from routine but also strengthen national identity, making them an integral part of life across the globe.
FAQs
Which Country in the World Has the Most Public Holidays?
Nepal is the nation that celebrates the most public holidays worldwide, with 39 holidays celebrated each year.
What Country Has the Most Holidays Off?
Nepal has the most holidays off in the world. The country has 39 public holidays that it celebrates every single year.
What Country Has the Least Public Holidays?
Switzerland generally has the fewest public holidays, ranging from 7 to 15 depending on the canton. Public holidays there are mostly Christian-based, with local variations, and include Christmas and Swiss National Day.
Which Country Has the Most Festivals in the World?
Nepal stands out for hosting numerous festivals, influenced by its Hindu and Buddhist heritage. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Buddha Jayanti are celebrated with grandeur, showcasing the country’s cultural diversity and deep spiritual traditions.
