Public Holidays in Cyprus and Their Significance

Cyprus observes several public holidays, each carrying a special meaning related to the country’s history, culture, or religion. These holidays offer moments of celebration, reflection, and national pride. Here is a list of them :

🌟 List of Public Holidays in Cyprus

• January 1st – New Year’s Day (Πρωτοχρονιά) Marks the beginning of the new calendar year.
• January 6th – Epiphany (Θεοφάνεια) A religious holiday commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.

• Variable Date – Green Monday (Καθαρά Δευτέρα) The first day of Lent in the Orthodox tradition, 50 days before Easter. A day for outdoor activities and picnics. In 2025, Green Monday falls on March 3rd.
• March 25th – Greek Independence Day (Ημέρα της Ελληνικής Ανεξαρτησίας) Commemorates the Greek War of Independence (1821) against the Ottoman Empire.

• April 1st – Cyprus Day/EOKA Day (Εθνική Ημέρα Κύπρου) Honors the start of the EOKA struggle (1955-1959) for Cyprus’ independence from British rule.
• Variable Date – Orthodox Good Friday (Μεγάλη Παρασκευή) A solemn day marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In 2025, Orthodox Good Friday falls on April 18th.
• Variable Date – Orthodox Easter Sunday (Κυριακή του Πάσχα) The most significant religious event in Cyprus, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In 2025, Orthodox Easter Sunday falls on April 20th.

• May 1st – Labour Day (Εργατική Πρωτομαγιά) A day recognizing workers’ rights and achievements worldwide.

• Variable Date – Pentecost Monday (Κατακλυσμός) Celebrated 50 days after Easter, also known as the “Festival of the Flood,” featuring coastal festivities. In 2025, Pentecost Monday falls on June 9th.

• August 15th – Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Κοίμηση της Θεοτόκου) A religious holiday marking the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

• October 1st – Cyprus Independence Day (Ημέρα ανεξαρτησίας) Celebrates Cyprus’ independence from British rule in 1960.
• October 28th – Ohi Day (Επέτειος του Όχι) Commemorates Greece’s rejection of an Axis ultimatum in 1940, leading to the country’s involvement in World War II.

• December 25th – Christmas Day (Χριστούγεννα) A Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
• December 26th – Boxing Day (Δεύτερη μέρα Χριστουγέννων) The day after Christmas, recognized as a public holiday in many countries.

These holidays highlight Cyprus’ cultural richness, blending religious traditions, historical events, and national pride.

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