Public Holidays in Andalusia 2026

If you’re planning a trip to southern Spain, it’s important to keep public holidays in Andalusia 2026 in mind. On these days, shops, banks and offices are often closed, and major celebrations or events may affect transport and accommodation availability.

This Andalusia public holidays 2026 calendar shows you exactly when each holiday takes place, helping you plan your trip smoothly.

Public Holidays Calendar: Andalusia 2026 Overview

• 1 January (Thursday) – Año Nuevo (New Year’s Day)

• 6 January (Tuesday) – Epiphany / Three Kings’ Day

• 28 February (Saturday) – Día de Andalucía (Andalusia Day)

• 2 April (Thursday) – Maundy Thursday

• 3 April (Friday) – Good Friday

• 1 May (Friday) – Labour Day

• 15 August (Saturday) – Assumption of the Virgin Mary

• 12 October (Monday) – Spain’s National Day (moved from Sunday)

• 2 November (Monday) – All Saints’ Day (moved from 1 Nov)

• 7 December (Monday) – Constitution Day (moved from 6 Dec)

• 8 December (Tuesday) – Immaculate Conception

• 25 December (Friday) – Christmas Day

Good to know: Public holidays can vary across Spain

The holidays listed above apply specifically to Andalusia and do not necessarily apply to all of Spain.

For example:

• In regions such as Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, Navarre and La Rioja, Easter Monday is a public holiday.

• In Andalusia, Easter Monday is not a public holiday.

• Other regions celebrate additional patron saint days or regional events.

  
  

Even within Andalusia, individual cities and towns may declare extra local holidays, especially during major festivals such as Ferias, which take place at different times depending on the city.

Special features of public holidays in Andalusia and Spain

If a public holiday in Spain falls on a Sunday, it is usually moved to the following Monday. The celebration still takes place on the actual date, but the additional day off allows for longer weekends.

Another common tradition is the “Puente” (bridge):

• If a holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, many employers grant the Monday or Friday off, creating a long weekend.

• These puente weekends are very popular for short trips and can significantly increase travel demand.

Free museum entry on Día de Andalucía

Día de Andalucía, always celebrated on 28 February, commemorates the 1980 referendum that granted Andalusia autonomous status within Spain.

On this day:

• Andalusian flags decorate balconies and public buildings

• Families and friends gather to celebrate regional culture

• In some cities (for example Málaga), schools may close for the entire week

  
  

To promote Andalusian heritage, many museums open for free on Día de Andalucía. This often includes popular institutions such as the Picasso Museum Málaga, though availability can vary by city.

Semana Santa: A must-see experience in Andalusia

During Holy Week (Semana Santa), Andalusia enters an exceptional state. Rather than focusing on just one holiday, the entire Easter week is dedicated to elaborate religious celebrations.

Each church organises solemn processions, where large floats depicting religious scenes are carried through the streets by brotherhoods. These events are deeply rooted in local tradition and are among the most impressive cultural experiences in southern Spain.

⚠️ Travel tip:

Hotels and holiday rentals, especially in major cities like Seville, Málaga and Granada are often fully booked weeks or even months in advance. If you plan to visit Andalusia during Semana Santa, early planning is essential.

FAQ – Public Holidays in Andalusia 2026

What is Spain’s national public holiday?

Spain’s national holiday is Día de la Hispanidad (Fiesta Nacional de España), celebrated every year on 12 October. Each autonomous region, including Andalusia, also celebrates its own regional holiday, such as Día de Andalucía.

Are shops open on public holidays in Andalusia?

Generally, most shops and banks are closed on major public holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter. Large supermarkets are usually closed, while some small shops, museums and tourist attractions may remain open with limited hours. Always check opening times in advance.

Is Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) a public holiday in Spain?

No. Whit Monday is not a public holiday in Andalusia or elsewhere in Spain.

Which museums are free on Día de Andalucía?

On 28 February, many state-run and municipal museums in Andalusia offer free admission for visitors. This varies by city and institution, so it’s advisable to check locally beforehand.

Which local holidays affect travel the most in Andalusia?

The biggest impact on travel comes from Semana Santa, Día de Andalucía, and major local Ferias. During these public holidays in Andalusia, accommodation prices may rise, traffic increases, and city centres become very busy. Booking tickets and hotels early is recommended.

Are public holidays in Andalusia 2026 also school holidays?

Yes. Most official public holidays in Andalusia are school-free days. In addition, local holidays and city festivals can result in extra days off. School holiday calendars are set at regional level.