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10 Countries With the Most Public Holidays to Travel in 2026
Ever feel like there are not enough long weekends to explore new places? Some countries make it easier to celebrate life with plenty of public holidays, giving travellers extra reasons to join festivals, relax, or discover new cultures. Here are 10 countries with the most public holidays that will make your next trip more memorable.
1. India, 21 to 23 Holidays
India is famous for its colourful festivals and rich traditions. With up to 23 public holidays depending on the state, there is always a celebration happening. Visiting during Holi or Diwali gives you an unforgettable experience with vibrant colours and sparkling lights.
Major 2026 public holidays in India include:
January 1, New Year's Day
January 26, Republic Day
March 3, Holi
March 10, Idul Fitr
March 30, Ram Navami
April 3, Good Friday
May 3, Buddha Purnima
June 27, Bakrid
July 26, Muharram
August 15, Independence Day
October 2, Gandhi Jayanti
October 9, Diwali
October 11, Govardhan Puja
October 12, Bhai Dooj
2. Colombia, 18 Holidays
Colombians know how to celebrate life. With 18 official public holidays, cities like Barranquilla come alive during Carnival, and Independence Day is a time for parades, music, and dance. Travelling here during a holiday lets you experience the country’s energy and passion.
Major 2026 public holidays in Colombia include:
January 1, New Year's Day
January 6, Epiphany
March 8, Women's Day
March 19, Saint Joseph's Day
April 5, Palm Sunday
April 9, Maundy Thursday
April 10, Good Friday
May 1, Labour Day
July 20, Independence Day
August 7, Battle of Boyacá
November 1, All Saints' Day
December 8, Immaculate Conception
December 25, Christmas Day
3. Philippines, 18 to 20 Holidays
Our own country is known for being a fiesta capital. The Philippines celebrates Holy Week, Independence Day, and local town festivals like Sinulog in Cebu or Panagbenga in Baguio. Planning your trip around these holidays lets you enjoy local culture, food, and traditions.
Major 2026 public holidays in the Philippines include:
January 1, New Year's Day
April 9, Araw ng Kagitingan
March 26, Maundy Thursday
March 27, Good Friday
May 1, Labour Day
June 12, Independence Day
August 21, Ninoy Aquino Day
August 31, National Heroes Day
November 1, All Saints' Day
November 30, Bonifacio Day
December 25, Christmas Day
December 30, Rizal Day
4. Malaysia, 16 to 19 Holidays
Malaysia’s cultural diversity is reflected in its holidays. Malay, Chinese, and Indian celebrations such as Deepavali, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Chinese New Year offer travellers colourful streets, delicious food, and unique cultural experiences.
Major 2026 public holidays in Malaysia include:
January 1, New Year's Day
May 1, Labour Day
May 31, Wesak Day
June 6, Agong's Birthday
August 31, National Day
September 16, Malaysia Day
December 25, Christmas Day
5. Thailand, 16 to 17 Holidays
Thailand is known for fun and unforgettable celebrations. Festivals like Songkran, the Thai New Year, and Loy Krathong provide travellers with immersive experiences from nationwide water fights to rivers lit with floating lanterns.
Major 2026 public holidays in Thailand include:
January 1, New Year's Day
April 6, Chakri Day
April 13 to 15, Songkran Festival
May 1, Labour Day
May 5, Coronation Day
May 11, Visakha Bucha Day
July 28, King’s Birthday
August 12, Queen’s Birthday
October 23, Chulalongkorn Day
December 5, King’s Birthday
December 10, Constitution Day
December 31, New Year's Eve
6. Japan, 16 Holidays
Japan celebrates national holidays with calm and cultural elegance. Golden Week is a highlight, combining multiple holidays in late April and early May. Travelling during these holidays allows you to enjoy festivals, cherry blossoms, and local traditions like a local.
Major 2026 public holidays in Japan include:
January 1, New Year's Day
January 12, Coming of Age Day
February 11, National Foundation Day
February 23, Emperor's Birthday
March 20, Vernal Equinox Day
April 29, Shōwa Day
May 3, Constitution Memorial Day
May 4, Greenery Day
May 5, Children's Day
July 20, Marine Day
August 11, Mountain Day
September 15, Respect for the Aged Day
September 23, Autumnal Equinox Day
October 12, Health and Sports Day
November 3, Culture Day
November 23, Labour Thanksgiving Day
7. Argentina, 15 Holidays
Argentina celebrates Independence Day and National Flag Day with parades, music, and traditional food. With 15 public holidays, travellers have plenty of opportunities to experience local pride and festive spirit.
Major 2026 public holidays in Argentina include:
January 1, New Year's Day
February 15, Carnival
March 24, Memorial Day
April 2, Day of the Veterans
May 1, Labour Day
May 25, May Revolution Day
June 20, Flag Day
July 9, Independence Day
October 12, Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity
December 8, Immaculate Conception
December 25, Christmas Day
8. South Korea, 15 Holidays
South Korea’s holidays focus on family and culture. Chuseok, the Korean Thanksgiving, and Seollal, the Lunar New Year, are perfect for travellers who want to witness local traditions and taste authentic Korean cuisine.
Major 2026 public holidays in South Korea include:
January 1, New Year's Day
February 5 to 8, Seollal
March 1, Independence Movement Day
May 5, Children's Day
June 6, Memorial Day
August 15, Liberation Day
September 28, Chuseok
October 3, National Foundation Day
October 9, Hangul Day
December 25, Christmas Day
9. Spain, 14 Holidays
Spain loves festivities and cultural events. From Semana Santa to La Tomatina and local town festivals, there is always music, dancing, and food. Visiting during these holidays is a great way to explore Spain slowly and enjoy local life.
Major 2026 public holidays in Spain include:
January 1, New Year's Day
January 6, Epiphany
March 19, Saint Joseph's Day
March 29, Easter Sunday
May 1, Labour Day
August 15, Assumption of Mary
October 12, National Day
December 25, Christmas Day
10. Russia, 14 Holidays
Russia combines history and celebration. New Year and Victory Day are major national events that offer travellers dramatic and unforgettable experiences while exploring the country’s traditions.
Major 2026 public holidays in Russia include:
January 1 to 8, New Year Holidays
January 7, Orthodox Christmas Day
February 23, Defender of the Fatherland Day
March 8, International Women's Day
May 1, Spring and Labour Day
May 9, Victory Day
June 12, Russia Day
November 4, National Unity Day
December 31, New Year's Eve
Why This Matters for Filipino Travellers
Filipinos love celebrations and long weekends. Planning your trips around public holidays abroad allows you to join vibrant festivals, taste authentic food, and experience local culture. Timing your travels with holidays is a smart way to make your adventure more exciting and memorable.
Next time you plan your trip, do not just focus on landmarks. Check the public holidays in your destination, join the celebrations, and make your travel experience unforgettable.
Image credit: Canva Pro
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About Author
Jeliefer Sumaya
Jeliefer is a laid-back storyteller who thrives on turning simple moments into unforgettable tales. When she's not writing, she’s spending quality time with her kids, unwinding with a good movie, or finding inspiration in everyday life. For her, it’s all about keeping it real and cherishing life’s little joys.
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