Feiertag

Feiertag is a German term for a day designated for celebration or rest, observed as a holiday. It denotes days off from work and school, usually tied to religious, historical, or civil occasions. The plural Feiertage refers to holidays in general. The word combines feiern, to celebrate, and Tag, day. The concept exists in German-speaking countries, but the exact list of Feiertage varies by country and, in federal states, by region.

In Germany, the category gesetzliche Feiertage encompasses public holidays. Many are nationwide, such as Neujahr (New Year’s Day), Tag der Arbeit (Labor Day), Ostermontag (Easter Monday), Christi Himmelfahrt (Ascension Day), Pfingstmontag (Whit Monday), Tag der Deutschen Einheit (German Unity Day), and 1. sowie 2. Weihnachtstag (Christmas Day and Boxing Day). Other holidays, like Allerheiligen (All Saints’ Day) or Reformationstag, are observed only in certain states. Schools and many businesses also align with these days, and holiday pay or special regulations for working on holidays may apply.

In Austria, Feiertage are similarly observed, with the Nationalfeiertag on 26 October as a major nationwide holiday. In Switzerland, Feiertage are largely determined by canton, though August 1 is widely celebrated as the Swiss National Day.

Observance typically involves closures of government offices and many businesses, and holidays often carry cultural and social activities, religious observances, or community events. The concept reflects historical religious and civil traditions and continues to influence work schedules, travel, and public life in German-speaking regions.