In a world where work-life balance is becoming increasingly important, many people are looking for ways to enjoy more time off from their busy schedules. One of the most intriguing aspects of different countries is how many public holidays they offer to their citizens. Some countries go above and beyond, providing a wide range of national holidays for various celebrations, while others stick to a more minimal number.
Have you ever wondered which countries offer the most time off? In some countries, public holidays are abundant, offering residents more opportunities to celebrate culture, religion, and national pride. Understanding countries with the most national holidays gives us insight into the various customs and traditions around the world. These holidays can be crucial for maintaining a work-life balance, allowing people time to relax, enjoy festivities, and connect with family and friends.
As we move into public holidays in 2024, it’s interesting to see how the global landscape of holidays is evolving. Some nations stand out for their significant number of days off, making them ideal destinations for those seeking a work-free life. In this blog, we’ll explore the top countries by holidays 2024, showcasing the nations where you can expect the most holidays by country. Whether it’s for historical observances or cultural celebrations, these countries rank highly in national holiday rankings, offering a diverse range of holidays for their people.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the top countries with the most national holidays in 2024, highlighting how these countries celebrate and the significance of their many holidays. From Nepal’s extensive list of holidays to Myanmar’s ever-changing holiday calendar, you’ll get a deeper understanding of how these nations prioritize time off and cultural observances. Ready to dive into the world of national holidays? Let’s explore the top countries where people enjoy the most time off in 2024!
Table of Contents
Here is the List of Top 10 Countries with the Most National Holidays in 2024
10. Liechtenstein – ~20 Holidays
Liechtenstein, the small but picturesque principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria, may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about holidays, but its approximately 20 public holidays reflect its rich cultural and religious heritage. As a predominantly Roman Catholic nation, many of its holidays are rooted in religious traditions, with celebrations like Easter, Ascension Day, and All Saints’ Day holding special significance. The people of Liechtenstein place a strong emphasis on family gatherings and community during these occasions, making the holidays a time for both spiritual reflection and joy.
One of the unique aspects of Liechtenstein’s holiday calendar is its blend of modern observances and age-old traditions. For instance, National Day on August 15 is a highly anticipated event where citizens and visitors come together to celebrate the country’s independence and unity. The day typically begins with a mass at the Vaduz Cathedral, followed by a grand celebration at the prince’s castle, featuring speeches, music, and fireworks. This mix of solemnity and festivity captures the essence of Liechtenstein’s approach to holidays.
Despite its small size, Liechtenstein’s commitment to honoring its traditions and maintaining its cultural identity through holidays makes it a unique destination. For both residents and tourists, these holidays offer a glimpse into the country’s close-knit community and enduring values.
9. Cambodia – ~21 Holidays
Cambodia is another country where public holidays are celebrated with great enthusiasm. With around 21 public holidays throughout the year, Cambodia ranks as one of the most holidays by country. Cambodia’s holiday calendar reflects both its rich cultural heritage and its deep-rooted religious traditions. Many of these holidays are tied to the Buddhist faith, which plays a significant role in the lives of the Cambodian people. Cambodia’s New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), which takes place in April, is one of the most widely celebrated events, marking the traditional solar new year. This multi-day festival is filled with family gatherings, traditional games, and public celebrations, making it a key highlight of the year.
In addition to the New Year celebrations, Cambodia observes several national holidays that are tied to significant historical events. Independence Day, on November 9, commemorates the country’s liberation from French colonial rule, while Labor Day (May 1) is celebrated in line with international labor movements. King’s Birthday and Royal Plowing Ceremony are also important public holidays that reflect the deep respect for the monarchy and traditional agricultural practices.
These holidays offer a glimpse into Cambodia’s cultural and historical identity, highlighting both its religious devotion and its national pride. With a variety of celebrations throughout the year, Cambodia is truly one of the countries with the most national holidays, offering its people numerous opportunities to connect with their heritage and spend time with loved ones.
8. Malaysia – ~15-24 Holidays
Malaysia is known for its diverse cultural makeup, and this diversity is reflected in the country’s extensive range of public holidays. Depending on the state, Malaysia observes anywhere between 15 to 24 public holidays throughout the year, making it one of the countries with the most national holidays. The country celebrates a wide variety of holidays based on its major ethnic and religious communities, including Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and Hindus. This cultural and religious diversity ensures that Malaysians have plenty of opportunities to enjoy festive occasions, regardless of their background.
Among the key public holidays in Malaysia, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which marks the end of Ramadan, is one of the largest and most widely celebrated. This holiday sees the whole country come together for a grand celebration, with special prayers, feasts, and family gatherings. Chinese New Year and Deepavali, celebrating the Hindu festival of lights, are also major holidays that reflect the country’s multi-ethnic society. Other important holidays include Merdeka Day (Independence Day) and Labour Day, which highlight Malaysia’s national pride and labor movements. With both public and state holidays, Malaysia’s holiday calendar is packed with cultural significance and celebrations, ensuring that each community has an opportunity to share its traditions and come together in unity.
7. India – ~21 Holidays
India is a country of vast diversity, and this diversity is reflected in its holiday calendar. With approximately 21 national holidays, though the exact number can vary significantly depending on the region, state, and local observances, India holds a prominent spot among the countries with the most national holidays. The country is home to multiple religious groups, ethnicities, and cultures, all of which contribute to the variety of holidays celebrated across the nation. In fact, depending on the state, the total number of holidays could go as high as 35 to 42 in some regions, making it one of the most holidays by country worldwide.
Some of the most significant national holidays in India include Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti, which commemorate important events in India’s history. Beyond these, India’s religious holidays play a central role in shaping the holiday landscape. Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is a widely celebrated holiday that marks the victory of light over darkness. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are important Islamic holidays celebrated by Muslims across the country. Christmas is also celebrated by India’s Christian population, while Baisakhi and Lohri are celebrated by Sikhs.
Furthermore, there are several regional festivals such as Onam in Kerala and Durga Puja in Bengal, which are celebrated at the state level and add to the overall count of holidays. As a result, India offers a wide range of opportunities for rest, reflection, and celebration throughout the year.
6. Egypt – ~22 Holidays
Egypt, a country steeped in history and culture, enjoys about 22 public holidays each year, making it one of the nations with the most national holidays. These holidays reflect the country’s religious and cultural diversity, with significant observances for both Islamic and Coptic Christians. A combination of national and religious holidays provides Egyptians with ample opportunities to celebrate their traditions and history. Some of the most prominent holidays in Egypt include Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, a major Islamic holiday that honors the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son. These holidays are celebrated with feasts, gatherings, and charitable activities.
In addition to Islamic holidays, Egypt also celebrates Coptic Christmas on January 7th and Coptic Easter, which are essential observances for the Christian population. Another important public holiday in Egypt is Revolution Day, celebrated on July 23rd to mark the 1952 revolution that led to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the Republic of Egypt. Labor Day, observed on May 1st, is also a significant holiday for Egyptian workers and is marked by public celebrations and demonstrations. Throughout the year, Egyptians take part in these observances, each one reflecting a different aspect of their diverse cultural and religious heritage, contributing to the overall number of national holidays enjoyed by the population.
5. Bangladesh – ~22 Holidays
Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is another country with a significant number of public holidays, with approximately 22 holidays observed each year. These holidays are a mix of national, religious, and cultural events that reflect the rich history and diverse traditions of the country. One of the most important holidays is Independence Day, celebrated on March 26th, which marks the day in 1971 when Bangladesh declared its independence from Pakistan, leading to the Liberation War. This is a day of national pride, with ceremonies, parades, and various public events across the country.
In addition to national holidays, Bangladesh also celebrates several religious observances, with Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha being the most significant for the Muslim-majority population. These holidays are marked by large gatherings, festive meals, and charitable acts. The Durga Puja, celebrated by the Hindu community, is another important holiday that involves grand festivities, including cultural programs, prayers, and feasts.
Bangladesh’s public holidays also include Victory Day, commemorating the victory of the Liberation War on December 16th, and Language Movement Day on February 21st, which honors the lives lost during the 1952 Bengali Language Movement. These holidays, along with others like Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) and May Day, offer Bangladeshis the chance to come together and celebrate their cultural identity and historical milestones.
4. Sri Lanka – ~25 Holidays
Sri Lanka, a stunning island nation in South Asia, celebrates approximately 25 public holidays annually, making it one of the countries with the most holidays in the world. These holidays are a mix of religious, national, and cultural observances that reflect the country’s diverse population, which includes Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, and other ethnic groups. Among the most significant holidays is Independence Day on February 4th, which marks Sri Lanka’s independence from British colonial rule in 1948. This day is celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural events across the nation, fostering a sense of national pride.
Sri Lanka is known for its vibrant religious holidays, particularly those associated with Buddhism, which is the predominant religion in the country. Vesak, the Buddha’s birthday, is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Sri Lanka. It is observed in May, and the country is adorned with lanterns, flags, and lights, while devotees engage in prayers, meditation, and charitable activities. Other important Buddhist holidays include Poson, which celebrates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and Navam Full Moon Poya Day, marking significant events in Buddha’s life.
In addition to Buddhist holidays, Sri Lanka also celebrates Hindu festivals such as Thai Pongal and Deepavali, as well as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr for the Muslim population. National holidays like Labour Day and Tamil and Sinhala New Year add to the country’s holiday calendar, creating a diverse and festive environment for its citizens throughout the year. This makes Sri Lanka a prime example of top countries by holidays 2024.
3. Iran – ~26 Holidays
Iran, with its rich history and cultural heritage, celebrates around 26 public holidays every year. These holidays reflect the nation’s deep connection to its religious and historical roots, with a significant number of observances dedicated to Islamic traditions, Persian customs, and national milestones. One of the most important holidays in Iran is Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which falls on the first day of spring, typically around March 20th or 21st.
This 13-day celebration is one of the oldest holidays in the world and is marked by family gatherings, feasts, and the symbolic cleaning of homes to welcome a fresh start. Nowruz is a cultural and national event that transcends religious boundaries, bringing people from various ethnic groups and regions together.
In addition to Nowruz, Islamic holidays form the core of Iran’s public holidays. The two major Islamic celebrations are Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, the festival of sacrifice. These holidays are celebrated with family gatherings, prayers, and charitable acts. Iran also observes Ashura, the day of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, a key figure in Shia Islam.
During Ashura, people participate in processions, reenactments of historical events, and fasting, as a sign of respect for the sacrifice made by Imam Hussein. Revolution Day on February 11th, commemorating the 1979 Islamic Revolution that overthrew the Pahlavi monarchy, is another major holiday in Iran. This day features parades, public speeches, and displays of patriotism. All in all, Iran’s holiday calendar is a mixture of religious observances, cultural celebrations, and significant national events, making it a country rich in festive traditions. Iran’s deeply rooted cultural and religious practices make it one of the top countries with the most national holidays.
2. Myanmar – ~24-32 Holidays
Myanmar, a country with a diverse range of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions, celebrates between 24 and 32 public holidays each year, depending on regional observances and religious festivities. The country’s calendar of holidays is heavily influenced by Buddhist traditions, with many of the observances being linked to the lunar calendar. Myanmar is predominantly a Buddhist nation, and religious holidays play a central role in daily life. Myanmar’s holiday system is unique, making it one of the most holidays by country.
One of the most significant holidays is Thingyan, the Burmese New Year, celebrated in April. This water festival marks the traditional New Year and is an exuberant celebration of purification, renewal, and the arrival of the monsoon season. During Thingyan, people engage in water-throwing and various fun-filled street activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the country.
In addition to Thingyan, Buddhist holidays such as Vesak, the day that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, are important. Tazaungdaing is another major Buddhist festival, celebrated in November, marking the end of the Buddhist Lent. The festival is highlighted by lighting lanterns and offering donations to monasteries. Alongside Buddhist holidays, Myanmar also observes National Independence Day on January 4th, celebrating the country’s independence from British colonial rule.
Myanmar’s diverse cultural fabric is also reflected in the observance of ethnic festivals, with different groups celebrating their own unique traditions, which may also be recognized as public holidays. The variability in the number of holidays stems from these regional and religious differences, making Myanmar’s holiday calendar both dynamic and reflective of its rich cultural heritage.
1. Nepal – ~35-39 Holidays
Nepal, nestled in the majestic Himalayas, tops the list of countries with the most public holidays, with 35 to 39 holidays each year, depending on the observances. The country’s holiday calendar is deeply rooted in its Hindu and Buddhist traditions, reflecting the diverse religious practices of its people. Nepal’s holidays are also influenced by its official lunar calendar, which results in varying dates for certain holidays each year. The importance of religious and cultural festivals is emphasized, and nearly every month has one or more public holidays dedicated to celebrations that hold significant spiritual and cultural value.
Some of the major holidays in Nepal include Dashain, which is the longest and most important Hindu festival in the country, celebrated in honor of the goddess Durga. During Dashain, families reunite to worship, exchange blessings, and celebrate victory over evil. Another major festival is Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, where people celebrate the bond between humans and animals, and homes are decorated with candles, oil lamps, and rangolis. Additionally, Buddha Jayanti, marking the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, is widely celebrated, especially in regions with a large Buddhist population.
On top of religious celebrations, National Democracy Day and Labor Day are also observed to commemorate significant moments in Nepal’s history. The rich variety of festivals and holidays, coupled with the country’s unique calendar system, makes Nepal one of the most festive countries, where public holidays are a significant part of life. The diversity of Nepal’s festivals is one of the reasons why it ranks as a leader in countries with the most national holidays.
Conclusion: More Than Just Days Off
Public holidays are more than just a break from work; they’re a time for people to come together, reflect, and celebrate what makes their country unique. In countries like Nepal, Myanmar, and Iran, these holidays are steeped in history, culture, and religion, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of each nation.
Whether it’s the water festivals of Myanmar, the spiritual observances of Nepal, or the national pride seen in Bangladesh’s Victory Day, each holiday is a reflection of the country’s heritage, values, and identity.
In 2024, as you plan your travels or simply marvel at the diversity of global celebrations, consider the significance of the holidays in these countries and how they connect people to their roots. Holidays not only allow for rest but also create an opportunity to celebrate the cultural fabric of a nation.
So, which country are you most interested in experiencing during a major holiday? Let us know in the comments below!
