Public and Bank Holidays in Vatican City 2024

Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state and the headquarters of the Catholic Church, observes a unique calendar of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays center around religious observances and significant events in the life of the Church, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Catholicism.

Here’s a guide to the public holidays in Vatican City for 2024:

• January 1st (Monday) – Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God: This public holiday celebrates the Virgin Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus Christ.

• January 6th (Saturday) – Epiphany: Marking the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus, this Christian feast day is a public holiday in Vatican City.

• February 11th (Sunday) – Anniversary of the Foundation of Vatican City: Commemorating the signing of the Lateran Treaties in 1929, which established Vatican City as an independent state. Public offices are closed on this day.

• March 13th (Wednesday) – Anniversary of the Election of Pope Francis: A public holiday marking the anniversary of Pope Francis’ election in 2013.

• March 19th (Tuesday) – Saint Joseph’s Day: Honoring Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus.

• March 29th (Friday) – Good Friday: A solemn Christian holy day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many offices observe adjusted hours.

• March 30th (Saturday) – Holy Saturday: The day before Easter Sunday, a period of reflection and preparation for the resurrection.

• March 31st (Sunday) – Easter Sunday: The most important Christian holiday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• April 1st (Monday) – Easter Monday: A continuation of Easter festivities.

• April 23rd (Tuesday) – Saint George’s Day: Saint George is the patron saint of England and a revered saint within the Catholic Church.

• May 1st (Wednesday) – Saint Joseph the Worker: Honoring Saint Joseph as a model worker.

• May 30th (Thursday) – Corpus Christi: A public holiday celebrating the Body and Blood of Christ.

• June 29th (Saturday) – The Feasts of Saints Peter and Paul: Celebrating two of the most important apostles, Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

• August 15th (Thursday) – Assumption of Mary: A holy day commemorating the Virgin Mary’s bodily assumption into heaven.

• September 8th (Sunday) – Nativity of Mary: Celebrating the birth of the Virgin Mary.

• November 1st (Friday) – All Saints’ Day: A day honoring all saints of the Catholic Church.

• December 8th (Sunday) – Feast of the Immaculate Conception: Celebrating the Virgin Mary’s conception without original sin.

• December 24th (Tuesday) – Christmas Eve: Public offices close early, with many attending Christmas Eve services.

• December 25th (Wednesday) – Christmas Day: The birth of Jesus Christ, a major Christian holiday.

• December 26th (Thursday) – Saint Stephen’s Day: Celebrating Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr.

Keep in mind:

• While this list covers all public holidays in Vatican City for 2024, some museums and shops may have adjusted opening hours, especially on major holidays. It’s always recommended to check opening times in advance.
• As the center of the Catholic Church, special religious events or papal pronouncements may occasionally affect opening hours or schedules.

So, if you’re planning a visit to Vatican City in 2024, be sure to factor in these public holidays to ensure a smooth and enriching experience!