Public holidays can tell you a lot about a country. They show what people celebrate, what they remember, and what traditions matter most.
For travelers, these holidays can make a trip more special. You may see parades, family meals, music, lights, or busy streets full of people.
But they can also affect your plans. Shops, banks, offices, and some transport services may close. So it helps to know which countries have many public holidays before you visit.
Here are some countries with a high number of public holidays, and what makes their calendars so lively.
10. Romania
Romania has around 15 public holidays each year.
Many of these holidays are linked to Orthodox Christian traditions. Easter and Christmas are very important in family life. People gather, cook special meals, and spend time with loved ones.
Romania also celebrates National Day on December 1. This day often includes parades, flags, and public events. In spring, Martisor is also a loved tradition. People give red and white tokens to welcome the new season.
For travelers, Romania’s holiday calendar adds color to cities, villages, and old towns.
9. Lithuania
Lithuania also has around 15 public holidays.
Many holidays come from Catholic traditions, such as All Saints’ Day and the Assumption. These days are often quiet and respectful.
Lithuania also has two important independence days. These holidays show how much the country values freedom and history.
One of the most beautiful times to visit is around Joninės, the midsummer festival. It is linked to folk songs, bonfires, nature, and old traditions.
8. Pakistan
Pakistan has around 15 public holidays each year.
The calendar includes Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These are major family events. People dress up, visit relatives, share meals, and give charity.
Pakistan also marks national days like Pakistan Day and Quaid-e-Azam Day. These holidays are tied to the country’s history and identity.
For visitors, holiday periods can be busy but full of life. Markets, roads, and family areas may become very active, especially around Eid.
7. Tanzania
Tanzania has around 16 public holidays.
The country celebrates both Christian and Muslim holidays. Christmas and Eid are both part of public life, showing the country’s mix of faiths and cultures.
Tanzania also marks Independence Day and Union Day. These days honor the country’s national story.
Another special holiday is Nane Nane Day, which celebrates farmers. It is a good reminder of how important farming is to the country.
Travelers may find Tanzania’s holidays warm, social, and community-focused.
6. Thailand
Thailand has around 16 public holidays each year.
One of the most famous is Songkran, the Thai New Year. It is best known for its water celebrations. Streets can turn into fun water fights, especially in major cities and tourist areas.
Thailand also celebrates Buddhist holidays and royal birthdays. These days are often marked with respect, temple visits, and public events.
For travelers, holidays in Thailand can be exciting. But it is smart to book hotels and transport early during big festivals.
5. Taiwan
Taiwan has around 16 public holidays.
Lunar New Year is one of the biggest events of the year. Families gather, share food, visit temples, and celebrate for several days.
Other major holidays include the Dragon Boat Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events bring food, family, and tradition together.
Taiwan also celebrates National Day in October. Cities may have flags, events, and public gatherings.
For visitors, Taiwan’s holidays are a great way to see local life beyond normal sightseeing.
4. Bangladesh
Bangladesh has around 22 public holidays.
The country’s calendar includes Islamic holidays, Hindu festivals, and national days. Eid is one of the biggest celebrations, with family visits, prayers, food, and travel across the country.
Durga Puja is also celebrated, especially by the Hindu community. Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, brings music, fairs, colorful clothes, and public joy.
Bangladesh also marks Independence Day and Victory Day. These holidays carry deep national meaning.
A visit during a festival can feel busy, bright, and full of energy.
3. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has around 25 public holidays.
One special part of its calendar is Poya Day. These holidays happen every full moon and are important in Buddhist life.
Sri Lanka also celebrates Vesak, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha. Streets and homes may be decorated with lights and lanterns.
The country also celebrates Sinhala and Tamil New Year, along with Christian and Muslim holidays.
For travelers, Sri Lanka’s holiday calendar offers many chances to see culture, faith, and family life up close.
2. Iran
Iran has around 26 public holidays.
Its calendar includes Islamic holidays as well as ancient Persian celebrations. Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is one of the most important. It marks the start of spring.
During Nowruz, families clean their homes, visit relatives, enjoy meals, and spend time outdoors.
Iran also marks religious days such as Ashura and Eid. Some are joyful, while others are quiet and serious.
For travelers, Iran’s public holidays show both deep history and strong cultural identity.
1. Nepal
Nepal has one of the highest numbers of public holidays, with around 35 days.
The country has a rich mix of Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and Christian traditions. Dashain and Tihar are two of the biggest festivals.
Dashain is a major family festival. Tihar is known for lights, flowers, animals, and family blessings.
Nepal’s holidays make the country feel very spiritual and colorful. For travelers, festivals can be a wonderful time to visit. But roads, hotels, and transport may get busy during major celebrations.
Countries with many public holidays often have deep traditions and strong community life.
For travelers, these days can make a trip more memorable. You may see a side of the country that normal travel days do not show.
At the same time, planning matters. Always check holiday dates before booking tours, trains, flights, or hotel stays. A public holiday can bring beautiful memories, but it can also change your schedule.
