In 2026, Spain once again impresses with a wide range of public holidays and long weekends, which vary significantly by region. The official calendar is already set, and millions across the country are starting to make plans for vacations, trips, and family gatherings. This year, some holidays fall on weekends, leading to the creation of extra ‘puentes’—long weekends Spaniards value highly.
Eight holidays are celebrated nationwide, while each autonomous community selects four additional days. On top of that, two local holidays are designated by individual municipalities. As a result, residents in Spain will enjoy 14 days off in 2026, not counting their annual leave.
National Holidays
In 2026, the following dates will be non-working days across Spain: January 1 (New Year’s Day), January 6 (Epiphany), April 3 (Good Friday), May 1 (Labor Day), August 15 (Assumption of Mary), October 12 (Spain’s National Day), December 8 (Immaculate Conception), and December 25 (Christmas Day). These dates are fixed and guarantee time off for everyone, regardless of where they live.
It’s worth noting that in 2026, two traditional holidays—All Saints’ Day (November 1) and Constitution Day (December 6)—fall on a Sunday. This allows regional authorities to move the day off to Monday or choose alternative significant dates, ensuring these long weekends are not lost.
Regional Distinctions
Each autonomous community has the right to add its own holidays to the national calendar. For example, in Andalucía, February 28 (Día de Andalucía) will be a public holiday, as well as April 2 (Maundy Thursday), November 2 (observed All Saints’ Day), and December 7 (observed Constitution Day). As a result, residents can enjoy several extended weekends in the region.
Aragón will add April 23 (Día de Aragón) to the list, while in Catalunya they traditionally celebrate La Diada (September 11) and Lunes de Pascua (April 6). Other regions such as Galicia, Madrid, Valencia, and the Canary and Balearic Islands also have their own unique dates rooted in local history and culture.
Long weekends
In 2026, residents across Spain will enjoy four nationwide long weekends. The first is the Easter break, which may start on Thursday or Friday and end on Monday, depending on the region. The second is Labor Day, which falls on a Friday, guaranteeing a three-day break. The third is Spain’s National Day, which in 2026 lands on a Monday, and the fourth is Christmas, also falling on a Friday.
Some autonomous communities, where holidays that fall on Sunday are observed on Monday, will have additional long weekends in November and December. This allows residents to plan mini-breaks or trips without using their regular vacation days.
Regional dates
In addition to national and regional holidays, each municipality has the right to designate two additional public holidays. These are usually dates connected with local traditions, patron saints, or historical events. For example, some towns celebrate their patron saint’s day or mark a significant local anniversary. Such days often become the centerpiece for large festivals, fairs, and public celebrations.
As a result, the total number of days off in 2026 may vary even among neighbors on the same street if they live in different municipalities. This approach helps preserve each area’s unique character and supports local traditions.
Vacation planning
The 2026 holiday calendar offers great opportunities for those who like to plan their vacations in advance. Thanks to the favorable placement of some of the dates, it’s possible to arrange several short breaks throughout the year without exhausting your annual leave. This is especially advantageous for families with children and for anyone who prefers to travel within Spain or abroad.
However, remember that demand for tickets, hotels, and car rentals usually spikes during long weekends. So if you prefer a calmer atmosphere and less crowded beaches, it’s worth considering less popular travel dates or choosing destinations that attract fewer tourists.
