| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Feb 14,2023 | Valentine's Day | Observance |
| Tuesday | Feb 21,2023 | Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day | Optional Holiday |
| Sunday | Mar 19,2023 | St. Joseph's Day | District Holiday |
| Sunday | Mar 19,2023 | Father's Day | Observance |
| Sunday | Mar 26,2023 | Daylight Saving Time starts | Clock change/Daylight Saving Time |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | National holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 09,2023 | Easter Sunday | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Apr 25,2023 | Liberty Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Apr 25,2023 | Our Lady of Mércoles | District Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day / May Day | National holiday |
| Sunday | May 07,2023 | Mother's Day | Observance |
| Friday | May 12,2023 | St. Joana's Day | District Holiday |
| Thursday | May 18,2023 | Ascension Day | District Holiday |
| Monday | May 22,2023 | Leiria Day | District Holiday |
| Tuesday | May 23,2023 | Portalegre Day | District Holiday |
| Monday | May 29,2023 | Azores Day | Regional Holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 08,2023 | Corpus Christi | National holiday |
| Saturday | Jun 10,2023 | Portugal Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Jun 13,2023 | St. Anthony's Day | District Holiday |
| Saturday | Jun 24,2023 | St. John's Day | District Holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 29,2023 | St. Peter's Day | District Holiday |
| Saturday | Jul 01,2023 | Madeira Day | Regional Holiday |
| Tuesday | Jul 04,2023 | St. Elizabeth's Day | District Holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 15,2023 | Assumption of Mary | National holiday |
| Sunday | Aug 20,2023 | Our Lady of Sorrows | District Holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 22,2023 | Our Lady of Graces | District Holiday |
| Thursday | Sep 07,2023 | Faro Day | District Holiday |
| Friday | Sep 15,2023 | Birth of Bocage | District Holiday |
| Thursday | Sep 21,2023 | St. Matthew's Day | District Holiday |
| Thursday | Oct 05,2023 | Republic Day | National holiday |
| Sunday | Oct 29,2023 | Daylight Saving Time ends | Clock change/Daylight Saving Time |
| Wednesday | Nov 01,2023 | All Saints' Day | National holiday |
| Monday | Nov 27,2023 | Foral of Sancho I | District Holiday |
| Friday | Dec 01,2023 | Restoration of Independence | National holiday |
| Friday | Dec 08,2023 | Feast of the Immaculate Conception | National holiday |
| Sunday | Dec 24,2023 | Christmas Eve | Observance |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | National holiday |
| Sunday | Dec 31,2023 | New Year's Eve | Observance |
New Year's Day, known as "Dia de Ano Novo" in Portugal, is a nationwide celebration that marks the beginning of the new year. It is a time of joy and festivity when people gather with friends and family to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. The cultural importance of this holiday lies in the tradition of making wishes and setting resolutions for the year ahead. Fireworks displays light up the skies, and parties are held in homes and public places. The Portuguese also have a tradition of eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight, each grape symbolizing good luck for each month of the new year.
Valentine's Day, known as "Dia dos Namorados" in Portugal, is a day to celebrate love and affection between couples. Similar to the international celebration, Portuguese couples exchange gifts, cards, and romantic gestures to express their love for each other. While it is a relatively modern holiday in Portugal, it has gained popularity as a day for couples to reaffirm their love and commitment. It's a day filled with romance and a chance to appreciate the ones you love.
Carnival, or "Carnaval" in Portuguese, is a lively and colorful celebration that precedes the Lenten season. It is a time of revelry, parades, and elaborate costumes. People come together to enjoy music, dance, and indulge in delicious treats, including traditional pancakes called "malassadas." Carnival is celebrated throughout Portugal but is especially famous in regions like Madeira and Loulé, where elaborate parades and vibrant festivities are held. It is a time to let loose before the solemnity of Lent begins.
St. Joseph's Day, known as "Dia de São José," is a religious holiday in Portugal that honors St. Joseph, the patron saint of workers and families. It is celebrated on March 19th and holds cultural significance as a day to honor fathers and paternal figures. Families often come together for special meals and gatherings to celebrate the importance of fatherhood. Traditional dishes like "folar," a special bread, are prepared for this occasion. St. Joseph's Day combines religious devotion with family unity.
Father's Day in Portugal is a modern celebration dedicated to fathers and paternal figures. It provides an opportunity for children to express their love and gratitude to their dads. While not a public holiday, families often mark this day with small gifts, cards, and gestures of appreciation. Father's Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in March, serves as a cultural reminder of the importance of fatherhood and the role fathers play in the family unit.
The start of Daylight Saving Time in Portugal signifies the transition to longer daylight hours during the warmer months. On the last Sunday of March, clocks are set forward one hour, providing more daylight in the evening. This change is made to make better use of natural daylight and reduce energy consumption. While not a holiday in the traditional sense, it plays a practical role in the lives of the Portuguese people, contributing to energy conservation and extended outdoor activities.
Good Friday, known as "Sexta-Feira Santa," is a significant Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a day of solemn reflection and religious observance. In Portugal, it is a public holiday, and many people attend church services and processions. The cultural importance lies in the deep religious traditions associated with this day, as it reminds the faithful of the sacrifice made by Jesus for the redemption of sins. Good Friday is a time for contemplation and prayer.
Easter Sunday, or "Domingo de Páscoa," is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is the culmination of the Holy Week and is marked by joyful church services, feasting, and the exchange of Easter eggs and gifts. In Portugal, families gather for special meals that often include lamb and traditional Easter bread. The cultural significance of Easter lies in the renewal of faith and the hope it brings. It is a time of joy, symbolizing new beginnings and the triumph of life over death.
Liberty Day, or "Dia da Liberdade," is a national holiday in Portugal celebrated on April 25th. It commemorates the Carnation Revolution of 1974, which led to the overthrow of the authoritarian Estado Novo regime and the establishment of democracy in Portugal. This day holds immense cultural and historical importance as it symbolizes freedom, democracy, and the end of dictatorship. It is a day of remembrance, with parades, speeches, and cultural events held across the country to honor the struggle for freedom and democracy.
Our Lady of Mércoles, or "Nossa Senhora dos Mércoles," is a religious celebration dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is observed on the Wednesday following Easter Sunday and is a time for Catholics to pay tribute to the mother of Jesus. This cultural tradition involves processions, prayers, and offerings made to the Virgin Mary. It reflects the deep-rooted Catholic faith and devotion in Portugal, highlighting the importance of the Virgin Mary as a symbol of hope and intercession in the lives of the faithful.
Labor Day, known as "Dia do Trabalhador" or "May Day" in Portugal, is a public holiday celebrated on May 1st. It is a day dedicated to workers' rights and labor solidarity. Workers' unions and labor organizations often organize rallies, parades, and events to advocate for workers' rights and social justice. The cultural significance of Labor Day lies in its promotion of workers' rights and the recognition of their contributions to society. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and workers' well-being.
Mother's Day, or "Dia da Mãe," is a special day to honor and appreciate mothers and maternal figures in Portugal. Celebrated on the first Sunday in May, it is a time for children to express their love and gratitude through cards, flowers, and gifts. While not a public holiday, it holds cultural importance as a day to recognize the selfless love and sacrifices made by mothers. Families often gather for meals and quality time, making it a cherished occasion to celebrate maternal bonds.
St. Joana's Day, known as "Dia de Santa Joana," is a religious celebration in Portugal that honors St. Joana, a revered figure in the Catholic faith. It is observed on May 12th and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural significance lies in the veneration of this saint and the spiritual significance she holds for the faithful. St. Joana's Day is a time for Catholics to express their faith and seek intercession from the saint for various blessings and favors.
Ascension Day, known as "Dia da Ascensão" in Portugal, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It falls on the 40th day of Easter, always on a Thursday. On this day, many Christians attend church services to mark the event. The cultural importance of Ascension Day lies in its religious significance as a reminder of Christ's divinity and his promise to return. It is a day of contemplation and devotion for the faithful in Portugal.
Leiria Day, or "Dia de Leiria," is a local holiday celebrated in the city of Leiria on May 22nd. It commemorates the historical importance of the city and its traditions. The cultural significance of Leiria Day lies in its focus on local heritage, with parades, exhibitions, and cultural events showcasing the city's history and culture. It is a day for residents and visitors alike to appreciate the uniqueness of Leiria and its contributions to Portuguese heritage.
Portalegre Day, or "Dia de Portalegre," is a local celebration in the city of Portalegre, held on May 23rd. It highlights the city's cultural heritage and historical significance. The day is marked by local festivities, parades, and events that showcase Portalegre's traditions and history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating regional culture and heritage. Portalegre Day is a time for residents and visitors to connect with the city's rich history and traditions.
Azores Day, or "Dia dos Açores," is a regional holiday celebrated in the Azores archipelago on the first Saturday in June. It is a day to honor the Azorean culture, heritage, and contributions to Portugal. The cultural significance of Azores Day lies in the recognition of the unique traditions and identity of the Azorean people. Festivals, parades, and events are organized across the islands to showcase Azorean music, dance, cuisine, and crafts. It is a day for both residents and visitors to immerse themselves in Azorean culture.
Corpus Christi, known as "Corpo de Deus" in Portugal, is a Christian holiday that celebrates the real presence of the body and blood of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. It is observed on the Thursday following Trinity Sunday, usually in June. In Portugal, it is marked by solemn processions, church services, and the creation of intricate flower carpets in streets and squares. The cultural importance of Corpus Christi lies in its vibrant and artistic displays of faith and devotion, as well as its deep-rooted religious significance.
Portugal Day, known as "Dia de Portugal," is a national holiday celebrated on June 10th. It commemorates the death of the great Portuguese poet Luis de Camões and celebrates Portuguese culture and identity. The day is marked by patriotic events, parades, and cultural activities that showcase the nation's heritage. It is a time for the Portuguese to express their national pride and celebrate their history, achievements, and contributions to the world. Portugal Day is a symbol of unity and love for the nation.
St. Anthony's Day, known as "Dia de Santo António," is a popular religious celebration in Portugal, especially in Lisbon. It honors St. Anthony of Padua, the patron saint of Lisbon, and is celebrated on June 13th. The day features processions, church services, and traditional marriages known as "casamentos de Santo António." These weddings are symbolic and often involve couples from humble backgrounds. The cultural significance of St. Anthony's Day lies in its fusion of faith, tradition, and community celebration, making it a unique and cherished holiday in Portugal.
St. John's Day, known as "Dia de São João," is a festive and lively celebration that takes place on June 24th in Portugal. It marks the summer solstice and is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant holidays in the country. The holiday is known for its traditional "Marchas Populares," colorful processions, and bonfires. People gather along the streets, dressed in colorful costumes, singing and dancing to lively music. The cultural importance of St. John's Day lies in its celebration of Portuguese traditions, folklore, and the arrival of summer.
St. Peter's Day, known as "Dia de São Pedro," is a religious celebration that honors St. Peter, a significant figure in the Catholic faith. It is observed on June 29th and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural significance of St. Peter's Day lies in its importance to the Catholic community, as it provides an opportunity for the faithful to express their devotion to this saint and seek his intercession. It is a day of spiritual reflection and religious observance in Portugal.
Madeira Day, or "Dia da Madeira," is a regional holiday celebrated in the Madeira archipelago on July 1st. It commemorates the autonomy of the Madeira region within Portugal and is a day to celebrate Madeiran culture, traditions, and contributions. The cultural significance of Madeira Day lies in its emphasis on the unique identity of Madeira and its historical ties with Portugal. Festivals, parades, and events showcase Madeiran music, dance, and cuisine, allowing residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the island's rich heritage.
St. Elizabeth's Day, known as "Dia de Santa Isabel," is a religious holiday in Portugal that honors St. Elizabeth of Portugal. It is observed on July 4th and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural importance of St. Elizabeth's Day lies in its recognition of the life and deeds of this revered saint. It provides an opportunity for Catholics to express their faith and seek intercession from St. Elizabeth for various blessings and favors. It is a day of spiritual significance for the faithful in Portugal.
The Assumption of Mary, known as "Assunção de Nossa Senhora" in Portugal, is a Christian holiday that celebrates the bodily taking up of the Virgin Mary into heaven. It is observed on August 15th and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural importance of the Assumption of Mary lies in its significance within Catholic theology, as it emphasizes Mary's unique role in Christian salvation. It is a day for Catholics to reflect on the spiritual significance of the Virgin Mary and her place in their faith.
Our Lady of Sorrows, or "Nossa Senhora das Dores," is a religious celebration in Portugal dedicated to the Virgin Mary's sorrows. It is observed on September 15th and is marked by church services, processions, and prayers. The cultural significance of Our Lady of Sorrows lies in its emphasis on empathy and compassion for the suffering of the Virgin Mary. It serves as a reminder of the emotional aspect of the Christian faith and the importance of Mary as a symbol of solace and intercession.
Our Lady of Graces, or "Nossa Senhora das Graças," is a religious holiday in Portugal dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is observed on October 13th and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural significance of Our Lady of Graces lies in the belief that Mary's grace and intercession can bring blessings and protection. It is a day for Catholics to express their faith and seek the blessings of the Virgin Mary. The holiday emphasizes the role of Mary as a source of divine grace and guidance.
Faro Day, or "Dia de Faro," is a local holiday celebrated in the city of Faro on September 7th. It commemorates the history and traditions of the city. The cultural significance of Faro Day lies in its focus on local heritage, with parades, exhibitions, and cultural events showcasing the city's history and culture. It is a day for residents and visitors to appreciate the uniqueness of Faro and its contributions to Portuguese heritage.
The Birth of Bocage, known as "Nascimento de Bocage," is a day that celebrates the birth of Manuel Maria Barbosa du Bocage, a renowned Portuguese poet. It is observed on September 15th and is marked by literary events, readings, and tributes to the poet's work. The cultural significance of this day lies in the recognition of Bocage's contributions to Portuguese literature and poetry. It serves as a reminder of the importance of literature and the arts in Portuguese culture.
St. Matthew's Day, known as "Dia de São Mateus," is a religious holiday that honors St. Matthew, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. It is observed on September 21st and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural significance of St. Matthew's Day lies in its importance to the Catholic community, as it provides an opportunity for the faithful to express their devotion to this apostle and seek his intercession. It is a day of spiritual reflection and religious observance in Portugal.
Republic Day, or "Dia da República," is a national holiday in Portugal celebrated on October 5th. It commemorates the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, marking the end of the monarchy. This day holds immense cultural and historical importance as it symbolizes democracy and the transition to a republic. It is a day of remembrance, with parades, speeches, and cultural events held across the country to honor the nation's democratic principles and values.
The end of Daylight Saving Time in Portugal signifies the return to standard time and shorter daylight hours as the winter season approaches. On the last Sunday of October, clocks are set back one hour. This change is made to adjust to the changing daylight patterns and conserve energy. While not a holiday in the traditional sense, it plays a practical role in the lives of the Portuguese people, contributing to energy conservation and adjusting daily routines to the changing seasons.
All Saints' Day, known as "Dia de Todos os Santos," is a Christian holiday that honors all saints and martyrs, known and unknown. It is celebrated on November 1st and is marked by church services, prayers, and visits to cemeteries to remember and honor deceased loved ones. The cultural significance of All Saints' Day lies in its emphasis on remembering and venerating the saints and departed souls. It is a day for reflection on the lives of the faithful and the hope of eternal life.
The Foral of Sancho I, known as "Foral de Sancho I," is a historical celebration that commemorates the granting of a royal charter (foral) to a town or city. The significance of this celebration varies depending on the specific town or city that received the foral. Each locality may have its own traditions and events to mark this historical occasion. The cultural importance of the Foral of Sancho I lies in its connection to local history and governance, serving as a reminder of the town's autonomy and privileges granted by the monarch.
The Restoration of Independence, known as "Restauração da Independência," is a national holiday in Portugal celebrated on December 1st. It commemorates the restoration of Portuguese independence from Spanish rule in 1640. This historical event marked the end of a period of Spanish dominance and the reestablishment of Portuguese sovereignty. The day is marked by patriotic events, parades, and cultural activities that reflect the importance of national identity and independence. It is a day to remember and celebrate Portuguese history and resilience.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, known as "Imaculada Conceição" in Portugal, is a Christian holiday that celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin. It is observed on December 8th and is marked by church services, processions, and religious devotion. The cultural significance of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception lies in its importance to Catholic theology, emphasizing Mary's purity and holiness. It is a day for Catholics to reflect on the spiritual significance of the Virgin Mary and her role in their faith.
Christmas Eve, known as "Véspera de Natal," is a cherished holiday in Portugal that precedes Christmas Day. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The evening is marked by a festive meal that often includes traditional dishes like codfish and desserts like "Bolo Rei." Families attend midnight Mass and exchange gifts. The cultural significance of Christmas Eve lies in its emphasis on family, tradition, and the birth of Christ, making it one of the most important holidays in Portugal.
Christmas Day, known as "Dia de Natal," is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for religious observance, family gatherings, and festive meals. In Portugal, Christmas is marked by traditions such as the "Consoada," a Christmas Eve supper, and the exchange of gifts. Churches hold special Masses, and the holiday is a time of reflection and gratitude. The cultural significance of Christmas Day lies in its celebration of faith, family, and the birth of the Savior, bringing joy and unity to Portuguese homes.
New Year's Eve, known as "Véspera de Ano Novo," is a lively and festive celebration that marks the end of the year and the beginning of the new one. It is a time for parties, fireworks, and gatherings with friends and family. People often dress in white, symbolizing a fresh start, and enjoy a traditional meal that includes dishes like "bacalhau" (codfish). The countdown to midnight is a moment of excitement, with the entire country coming alive with fireworks displays. The cultural importance of New Year's Eve lies in the hope and optimism it brings for the future, making it a joyous and unforgettable celebration in Portugal.
