| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | National holiday |
| Friday | Jan 06,2023 | Epiphany | National holiday |
| Saturday | Jan 07,2023 | Orthodox Christmas Day | Optional holiday |
| Monday | Jan 09,2023 | Međimurje Unification Day | Observance |
| Sunday | Jan 15,2023 | Day of the International Recognition of the Republic of Croatia | Observance |
| Sunday | Jan 15,2023 | Day of Peaceful Reintegration of the Croatian Danube Region | Observance |
| Wednesday | Mar 15,2023 | Day of the Establishment of the National Protection in the Republic of Croatia | Observance |
| Sunday | Mar 19,2023 | Father’s Day | Observance |
| Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | Ramadan Start | Observance |
| Sunday | Apr 09,2023 | Easter Sunday | National holiday |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | National holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 16,2023 | Orthodox Easter Day | Optional holiday |
| Monday | Apr 17,2023 | Orthodox Easter Monday | Optional holiday |
| Friday | Apr 21,2023 | Ramadan Bayram | Optional holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 30,2023 | Day of the Deaths of Zrinski and Frankopan | Observance |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day / May Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | May 09,2023 | Europe Day and Victory Day Over Fascism | Observance |
| Sunday | May 14,2023 | Mother’s Day | Observance |
| Tuesday | May 30,2023 | Statehood Day | National holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 08,2023 | Corpus Christi | National holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 22,2023 | Day of Antifascist Struggle | National holiday |
| Sunday | Jun 25,2023 | Independence Day | Observance |
| Wednesday | Jun 28,2023 | Kurban Bayram | Optional holiday |
| Saturday | Aug 05,2023 | Victory Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 15,2023 | Assumption of Mary | National holiday |
| Wednesday | Aug 23,2023 | European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes | Observance |
| Wednesday | Aug 30,2023 | Day of Remembrance of Missing Persons in the Homeland War | Observance |
| Saturday | Sep 16,2023 | Rosh Hashana | Optional holiday |
| Monday | Sep 25,2023 | Yom Kippur | Optional holiday |
| Monday | Sep 25,2023 | Unification Day of Istria, Rijeka, Zadar, and the Islands | Observance |
| Sunday | Oct 08,2023 | Day of the Croatian Parliament | Observance |
| Wednesday | Nov 01,2023 | All Saints' Day | National holiday |
| Saturday | Nov 18,2023 | Remembrance Day | National holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | St Stephen's Day | National holiday |
New Year's Day, known as "Nova godina" in Croatia, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. Celebrated on January 1st, it's a time for joyous festivities, parties, and fireworks. Croatians gather with family and friends to welcome the new year with hope and optimism. It's a cultural moment of unity, reflection, and making resolutions for the year ahead. The holiday also holds significance as it marks the end of the holiday season.
Epiphany, or "Bogojavljenje" in Croatian, is observed on January 6th. It commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus. A special tradition involves the blessing of water, and people participate in outdoor processions and take icy dips in rivers and lakes. Epiphany has cultural importance as it combines religious observance with the enduring tradition of water purification and renewal, emphasizing the connection between faith and nature in Croatian culture.
Orthodox Christmas Day, celebrated on January 7th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar. Croatian Orthodox Christians observe this day with church services, prayers, and gatherings with family and friends. It is a culturally significant occasion that reflects the diversity of religious practices in Croatia and promotes tolerance and understanding among different religious communities.
Međimurje Unification Day, celebrated on January 9th, commemorates the reunification of Međimurje with the rest of Croatia in 1947. This day holds cultural importance as it symbolizes the unity and territorial integrity of Croatia. Various events and ceremonies take place to honor this historical milestone, fostering a sense of national identity and pride among the people of Međimurje and Croatia as a whole.
On January 15th, Croatia celebrates the Day of International Recognition. This significant day commemorates the international recognition of Croatia's independence in 1992. It marks a crucial moment in Croatian history when the country was recognized as a sovereign state. The cultural importance lies in reaffirming Croatia's identity and celebrating its path to self-determination. Various events, ceremonies, and exhibitions are organized to reflect on this milestone and to strengthen the nation's sense of unity and sovereignty.
The Day of Peaceful Reintegration, celebrated on January 15th, marks the peaceful reintegration of the Croatian Danube region, specifically Eastern Slavonia, Baranja, and Western Sirmium, into Croatia in 1998. This day carries cultural significance as it represents the end of the armed conflict and the return of the region to Croatian sovereignty. Commemorative events, ceremonies, and cultural activities promote reconciliation and unity, emphasizing the importance of peace in the history and culture of Croatia.
Celebrated on January 17th, the Day of National Protection commemorates the founding of the Croatian Army and the establishment of national defense mechanisms. This day highlights Croatia's commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Cultural events, military parades, and exhibitions showcase the country's defense capabilities and the dedication of its armed forces. The holiday instills a sense of national pride and unity, emphasizing the importance of security and protection in Croatian culture.
Father's Day, known as "Dan očeva" in Croatia, is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. It's a day to honor and appreciate fathers and father figures for their love and support. Families express their gratitude through gifts, cards, and quality time together. Father's Day holds cultural importance as it reinforces family bonds and celebrates the role of fathers in Croatian society. It's a heartfelt occasion that promotes love and respect within families.
Ramadan, known as "Ramazan" in Croatia, is a holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection observed by Muslims worldwide. It follows the lunar calendar, and Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during this period. Ramadan is a culturally significant time for the Muslim community in Croatia, fostering unity and devotion. It also highlights the diversity of religious practices in the country, promoting tolerance and understanding among different faiths. The breaking of the fast, or "Iftar," is a communal event that strengthens social bonds.
Easter Sunday, known as "Uskrs" in Croatian, is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It's a day of religious significance, marked by church services, egg decorating, and festive meals with family. The tradition of exchanging decorated eggs symbolizes new life and rebirth. Easter Sunday reinforces the cultural ties within the Christian community in Croatia and encourages reflection on faith and spirituality.
Easter Monday, or "Uskrsni ponedjeljak," follows Easter Sunday and is a public holiday in Croatia. It allows people to extend their Easter celebrations with family and friends. Many Croatians use this day for relaxation, picnics, or outdoor activities. It's a culturally relevant tradition that emphasizes spending quality time with loved ones and enjoying the beauty of nature. Easter Monday is an integral part of the Easter festivities in Croatia.
Orthodox Easter Day, celebrated on a different date from Western Easter, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar. Croatian Orthodox Christians observe this day with church services, processions, and traditional customs. It reflects the rich cultural diversity in Croatia's religious landscape and promotes mutual respect among different religious communities.
Orthodox Easter Monday, or "Uskrsni ponedjeljak" in Croatian, follows Orthodox Easter Day and extends the Easter celebrations for Croatian Orthodox Christians. Similar to Easter Monday in the Western tradition, it provides an opportunity for relaxation, family gatherings, and outdoor activities. This cultural tradition emphasizes spending time with loved ones and enjoying the festive spirit of Easter.
Ramadan Bayram, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan. It's a significant Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims in Croatia with special prayers at the mosque and communal meals. A central tradition is the giving of gifts and charity to the less fortunate. Ramadan Bayram fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and devotion within the Muslim community, making it an important cultural and religious observance in Croatia.
On September 30th, Croatia observes the Day of the Deaths of Zrinski and Frankopan. It commemorates the heroic sacrifice of Croatian nobles, Nikola Zrinski and Petar Zrinski, who perished in the Castle of Wiener Neustadt in 1671. This day holds cultural importance as it symbolizes the spirit of resistance and the struggle for Croatian freedom. Ceremonies, exhibitions, and cultural events pay tribute to these national heroes, inspiring a sense of patriotism and unity among Croatians.
Labor Day, known as "Praznik rada" in Croatian, is celebrated on May 1st, honoring the labor movement and workers' rights. It's a day for labor unions, workers, and activists to organize rallies, parades, and discussions about labor-related issues. Labor Day holds cultural importance by highlighting the significance of fair labor practices, social justice, and workers' well-being in Croatian society. The holiday underscores the role of workers in the country's development and fosters a sense of unity among the labor force.
On May 9th, Croatia celebrates Europe Day and Victory Day Over Fascism. Europe Day promotes the unity and cooperation among European nations, emphasizing Croatia's role as a member of the European Union. Victory Day Over Fascism, or "Dan pobjede nad fašizmom," commemorates the defeat of fascism in World War II. Both events hold cultural significance by acknowledging Croatia's commitment to European values and honoring the sacrifices made in the fight against fascism. Celebrations include concerts, exhibitions, and historical reenactments, fostering a sense of unity and peace.
Mother's Day, known as "Dan majki" in Croatia, is celebrated on the second Sunday in May. It's a day to honor and appreciate mothers for their love and dedication. Families express their gratitude with gifts, flowers, and heartfelt gestures. Mother's Day holds cultural importance by reinforcing family bonds and recognizing the essential role of mothers in Croatian society. It's a heartfelt occasion that promotes love and respect within families.
Statehood Day, celebrated on June 25th, marks the day when Croatia declared independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991. It's a significant national holiday that emphasizes Croatia's sovereignty and statehood. Cultural events, parades, and ceremonies showcase the country's history, heritage, and national identity. Statehood Day fosters a sense of unity and pride among the Croatian people, highlighting their commitment to self-determination and democracy.
Corpus Christi, known as "Tijelovo" in Croatian, is a Christian holiday observed on the Thursday following Trinity Sunday. It celebrates the presence of the body and blood of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Croatians participate in processions, church services, and decorate the streets with floral carpets. Corpus Christi reflects the strong cultural ties within the Christian community in Croatia and highlights the deep-rooted traditions that connect faith and culture.
On June 22nd, Croatia observes the Day of Antifascist Struggle, commemorating the establishment of the first Croatian antifascist unit during World War II. This day holds cultural importance as it symbolizes the resistance against fascism and the fight for freedom. Various events, exhibitions, and ceremonies pay tribute to the antifascist heroes, fostering a sense of patriotism and unity among Croatians. It underscores the value of democracy, antifascism, and human rights in Croatian culture.
Independence Day, celebrated on October 8th, marks Croatia's declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. It's one of the most significant national holidays, emphasizing Croatia's sovereignty and statehood. Cultural events, parades, and ceremonies reflect on the country's history and national identity. Independence Day fosters a sense of unity and pride among the Croatian people, highlighting their commitment to self-determination and democracy.
Kurban Bayram, also known as Eid al-Adha, is a major Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims in Croatia. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Families come together for special prayers at the mosque, followed by communal meals and the sacrifice of an animal. Kurban Bayram promotes solidarity, compassion, and devotion within the Muslim community, making it an important cultural and religious observance in Croatia.
Victory Day, celebrated on May 9th, commemorates the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. It holds cultural importance as it honors the sacrifices made in the fight against fascism. Various events, ceremonies, and exhibitions pay tribute to those who contributed to the victory, fostering a sense of unity and peace. Victory Day emphasizes Croatia's commitment to peace and the values of democracy and human rights.
Assumption of Mary, known as "Velika Gospa" in Croatian, is a Christian holiday celebrating the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken into heaven. Croatians observe this day with church services, processions, and religious gatherings. It's a time for reflection on faith and spirituality. Assumption of Mary reinforces the cultural and religious ties that bind the Christian community in Croatia, deepening their sense of devotion and unity.
On August 23rd, Croatia observes the European Day of Remembrance to honor the victims of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes. This day holds cultural importance by promoting awareness of historical injustices and the importance of democracy and human rights. Commemorative events, discussions, and educational activities reflect on the country's commitment to upholding democratic values and preventing the recurrence of authoritarianism. It emphasizes the significance of remembrance and accountability in Croatian culture.
On August 30th, Croatia commemorates the Day of Remembrance of Missing Persons in the Homeland War. This solemn day reflects on the individuals who went missing during the Croatian War of Independence (1991-1995). Cultural events, ceremonies, and exhibitions pay tribute to these individuals and their families, fostering a sense of solidarity and compassion. It underscores the importance of reconciliation and closure for the victims and their loved ones, promoting healing and unity within Croatian society.
Rosh Hashanah, known as "Roš Hašana" in Croatian, is the Jewish New Year. It's a time of reflection, repentance, and celebration among the Jewish community in Croatia. Families gather for special meals, prayers, and the sounding of the shofar (ram's horn). Rosh Hashanah holds cultural importance by highlighting the diversity of religious practices in Croatia and promoting interfaith understanding. It's a moment to celebrate renewal and hope for the year ahead.
Yom Kippur, known as "Jom Kipur" in Croatian, is the holiest day in Judaism, observed through fasting, prayer, and repentance. It's a day for introspection and seeking forgiveness for sins. Yom Kippur reflects the cultural diversity in Croatia's religious landscape and promotes tolerance and respect among different faiths. It's a solemn occasion for the Jewish community to deepen their spirituality and connect with their heritage.
Celebrated on September 8th, Unification Day commemorates the unification of Istria, Rijeka, Zadar, and the islands with the rest of Croatia in 1943. This historical event holds cultural significance as it symbolizes the territorial integrity and unity of Croatia. Various events, ceremonies, and exhibitions pay tribute to this milestone, fostering a sense of national pride and identity among the people of these regions and Croatia as a whole.
On October 8th, Croatia celebrates the Day of the Croatian Parliament, commemorating the adoption of the 1991 Constitution. This day holds cultural importance by highlighting the democratic principles and the role of the parliament in Croatian governance. Various events, discussions, and educational activities promote civic engagement and civic values, emphasizing the importance of democracy in Croatian culture. It underscores the significance of responsible governance and public participation.
All Saints' Day, known as "Svi sveti" in Croatian, is a Christian holiday honoring all saints and martyrs. It is celebrated on November 1st. Many Croatians visit cemeteries to pay their respects to deceased loved ones, lighting candles and leaving flowers. All Saints' Day holds cultural importance as it emphasizes the significance of faith, remembrance, and family bonds in Croatian society. It's a solemn occasion that promotes reflection on life, death, and the enduring connections with those who have passed away.
Remembrance Day, celebrated on November 18th, commemorates the victims of the Homeland War (1991-1995) and all those who lost their lives in the struggle for Croatia's independence. This day holds cultural importance by promoting remembrance, reconciliation, and unity. Commemorative events, ceremonies, and exhibitions pay tribute to the sacrifices made for freedom, fostering a sense of solidarity and patriotism. It underscores the importance of peace and the commitment to protecting the nation's sovereignty.
Christmas Day, known as "Božić" in Croatian, is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It's a day of religious significance, marked by church services, nativity scenes, and festive meals with family. The tradition of exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve is a cherished custom. Christmas Day reinforces the cultural ties within the Christian community in Croatia and encourages reflection on faith and spirituality. It's a joyous occasion that brings families together and spreads goodwill and love.
St. Stephen's Day, known as "Sveti Stjepan" in Croatian, is celebrated on December 26th. It honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. Croatians observe this day with religious services and gatherings with family and friends. St. Stephen's Day holds cultural importance by highlighting the role of faith and spirituality in Croatian culture. It's a time for reflection and devotion, fostering a sense of unity and community among the Christian faithful.
