Public Holidays in Berlin: A Complete Guide for This Year
Berlin, Germany’s dynamic capital, not only stands out for its historical significance and culture but also for its diverse public holidays. Whether you’re living in Berlin or visiting, knowing about these public holidays is crucial for navigating the city’s day-to-day life.
Berlin Public Holidays 2025
Below is a list of public holidays in Berlin for the year 2025. Holidays are highlighted for easy reference.
| Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) |
| March 8 | Saturday | International Women’s Day (Internationaler Frauentag) |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday (Karfreitag) |
| April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday (Ostermontag) |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) |
| May 8 | Thursday | 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II (80. Jahrestag des Endes des Zweiten Weltkriegs) |
| May 29 | Thursday | Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) |
| June 9 | Monday | Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) |
| October 3 | Friday | German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag) |
| December 26 | Friday | Boxing Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag) |
From religious and cultural holidays to events that reflect the city’s unique history, Berlin offers a mix of celebrations that showcase its multifaceted identity.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the most important public holidays in Berlin, including their significance, what to expect, and tips on how to make the most of your time during these holidays.
What Are the Public Holidays in Berlin?
Berlin observes a total of 11 public holidays annually. These include nationwide German celebrations, as well as those specific to Berlin. During these holidays, most businesses, offices, and government services shut down, while public transportation runs on a limited schedule. This can impact travel plans, banking, and shopping, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
Some of the most significant public holidays in Berlin include New Year’s Day, Labour Day, German Unity Day, and Christmas. Let’s explore these holidays in detail, including cultural insights and practical tips.
1. New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) – January 1, 2025
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the year and is celebrated nationwide across Germany. Berlin’s New Year’s Eve, known as Silvester, is one of the most iconic in the world, with grand fireworks displays and street parties, especially around Brandenburg Gate. While New Year’s Eve is a night of celebration, New Year’s Day is a quiet holiday where most businesses are closed.
- Closures: Supermarkets, stores, and public offices will be closed on January 1.
- Public Transport: Reduced public transportation schedules are in effect.
- Tips: If you want to experience Berlin’s vibrant Silvester celebrations, head to Brandenburg Gate for the fireworks. However, plan accordingly for reduced services on January 1.
2. International Women’s Day (Internationaler Frauentag) – March 8, 2025
Unique to Berlin, International Women’s Day was declared a public holiday in 2019, making it a day off in recognition of women’s rights and achievements. It’s an important day for discussions on gender equality, with events and rallies held across the city.
- Events: Rallies and women’s rights events occur throughout Berlin.
- Closures: Most businesses, offices, and schools are closed.
- Tips: If you’re interested in human rights and gender equality, join public events and discussions in Berlin.
3. Good Friday (Karfreitag) – April 18, 2025
Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It’s one of the quieter holidays in Berlin, with a focus on reflection rather than celebration.
- Closures: Shops and restaurants are closed, and public events are limited.
- Church Services: Many churches hold special services.
- Tips: Visit historical churches like Berliner Dom or Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church for a serene experience.
4. Easter Monday (Ostermontag) – April 21, 2025
Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday and marks the end of the Easter holiday weekend. It’s a time for family gatherings, outdoor activities, and relaxation.
- Outdoor Activities: Berliners often enjoy the spring weather in parks like Tiergarten or Tempelhofer Feld.
- Closures: Most businesses remain closed, but tourist attractions are open.
5. Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) – May 1, 2025
Labour Day is both a public holiday and a politically significant day. Known for large demonstrations, particularly in Kreuzberg, it’s a celebration of workers’ rights and a platform for political protests.
- Demonstrations: May Day features large protests, especially in Kreuzberg.
- Street Festivals: Enjoy food, music, and art in local neighborhoods.
- Tips: Be cautious while attending protests, as they can occasionally become intense.
6. Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) – May 29, 2025
Ascension Day commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven. In Germany, it also doubles as Father’s Day, with outdoor celebrations and barbecues.
- Outdoor Celebrations: Parks are lively with groups celebrating Father’s Day.
- Closures: Businesses and offices are closed.
7. German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) – October 3, 2025
German Unity Day celebrates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. Berlin, as the focal point of reunification, hosts major festivities.
- National Celebrations: Head to Brandenburg Gate for concerts, speeches, and fireworks.
- Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the celebrations.
8. Christmas Holidays – December 25 and 26, 2025
Christmas in Berlin is magical, with festive markets, lights, and traditions. Both Christmas Day and Boxing Day are public holidays focused on family gatherings.
- Closures: Most businesses, including supermarkets, are closed.
- Tips: Visit Berlin’s Christmas markets, like Gendarmenmarkt, which open weeks before Christmas.
Unique Recommendations for Each Public Holiday in Berlin
1. New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) – January 1
- Recommendation: Start your year with a refreshing walk along the Spree River or explore the serene grounds of Schloss Charlottenburg. If you’re up for something quirky, visit the Berlin Planetarium for a relaxing star-gazing experience to welcome the new year.
2. International Women’s Day (Internationaler Frauentag) – March 8
- Recommendation: Attend feminist art exhibits at the Berlinische Galerie or join one of the many rallies and discussions held throughout the city. For a quieter celebration, explore books on gender equality at Berlin’s Literaturhaus Café.
3. Good Friday (Karfreitag) – April 18, 2025
- Recommendation: Visit the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church for its historic and reflective atmosphere. Alternatively, take a peaceful walk through Berlin’s Treptower Park and visit the Soviet War Memorial, a site of somber beauty.
4. Easter Monday (Ostermontag) – April 21, 2025
- Recommendation: Celebrate the arrival of spring by joining the Easter events at Britzer Garten, which often include family-friendly activities like egg hunts, craft markets, and flower displays.
5. Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) – May 1, 2025
- Recommendation: Experience Berlin’s activist spirit by observing the May Day demonstrations in Kreuzberg, followed by enjoying the street festivals in the same area. For a less intense experience, head to Görlitzer Park for food, music, and art.
6. Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) – May 29, 2025
- Recommendation: Join locals in celebrating Father’s Day by renting a bike and cycling through Grunewald Forest. Pack a picnic and relax by the shores of Schlachtensee, a scenic lake within the forest.
7. Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) – June 9, 2025
- Recommendation: Visit the Carnival of Cultures (if it coincides with this time) to enjoy vibrant parades, music, and food from diverse communities. If not, spend the day at the Botanical Garden, which is stunning during late spring.
8. German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) – October 3, 2025
- Recommendation: Attend the national celebrations at Brandenburg Gate, featuring concerts, cultural events, and fireworks. For a more educational experience, visit the Berlin Wall Memorial to reflect on the city’s divided history and reunification.
9. Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtstag) – December 25, 2025
- Recommendation: Spend a cozy Christmas morning at one of Berlin’s famous Christmas markets, like Gendarmenmarkt or Charlottenburg Palace. Enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread, and traditional German holiday treats.
Best Banks in Germany to Consider for Public Holidays in Berlin
During public holidays in Berlin, most banks, financial institutions, shops, supermarkets, and offices are closed, making it essential to plan your financial activities in advance. However, online banking services remain fully operational, allowing you to manage transactions, pay bills, and monitor account balances without disruption.
N26 is a leading mobile bank in Germany, offering a comprehensive English-language platform. Its user-friendly app enables seamless online banking, making it a top choice for expats and travelers.
Commerzbank, Germany’s second-largest bank, provides both traditional branch services and online banking. While some online services are in English, the sign-up process is primarily in German. Commerzbank is recognized for its reliability and comprehensive branch network.
Deutsche Bank offers online banking services with partial English support. While its online banking portal is available in English, other services and communications may primarily be in German, which may be less convenient for non-German speakers.
Vivid Money is an emerging online bank that operates entirely in English. It offers a user-friendly mobile app, free account setup, cashback programs, and investment options, making it particularly appealing to tech-savvy users and younger customers.
Tomorrow Bank focuses on ethical banking and provides services entirely in English. With a commitment to sustainability, it appeals to environmentally conscious customers who prefer online banking.
It’s advisable to withdraw cash in advance of public holidays, as ATMs may experience higher demand. Additionally, for those who rely on in-person banking services, planning visits before or after the holiday period is recommended to avoid inconvenience.
By choosing the right banking option, you can ensure smooth financial management even when traditional services are unavailable during Berlin’s public holidays.
FAQ:
How many public holidays are there in Berlin?
Berlin observes 9 public holidays annually, including New Year’s Day, International Women’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labor Day, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, German Unity Day, and Christmas Day.
Are shops open in Berlin on public holidays?
Most shops and supermarkets in Berlin are closed on public holidays. However, some convenience stores, gas stations, and select restaurants, especially in tourist areas, may remain open.
What day is everything closed in Berlin?
In Berlin, most businesses and shops are closed on public holidays and Sundays. Exceptions include restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and some stores in tourist areas.
Are public holidays in Germany paid?
Yes, public holidays in Germany are paid days off for employees, provided they meet the requirements of their employment status.
Which state in Germany has more public holidays?
Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg have the highest number of public holidays in Germany, with up to 13 holidays, depending on regional observances.
Why is everything closed on Sunday in Berlin?
The “Ladenschlussgesetz” (shop closing law) mandates shop closures on Sundays to promote work-life balance and family time. Exceptions include bakeries and stores in tourist areas.
What closes in Berlin on Sunday?
On Sundays in Berlin, shops, supermarkets, and retail outlets are closed, but restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues typically stay open.
How many full working days are there in Berlin?
Berlin typically has 251 working days per year, accounting for weekends and 9 public holidays. This number may vary slightly depending on how public holidays fall.
