Public Holidays in North Macedonia
Summary:This article outlines the public holidays in North Macedonia, which reflect the country's cultural heritage and traditions, as well as commemorate significant international events.
Major holidays in North Macedonia
January 1st and 2nd: New Year's Day
Celebrations: Like the rest of the world, people in North Macedonia gather
with family and friends, exchange gifts, and host celebrations to mark the beginning of a
new year.
Significance: Symbolizing a fresh start, people are filled with hope for
happiness and good fortune in the coming year.
January 7th: Orthodox Christmas
Celebrations: As one of the most important religious holidays in North
Macedonia, Orthodox Christmas is celebrated with grand religious ceremonies and family
gatherings featuring traditional feasts.
Significance: Commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, it reflects the
deep-rooted religious faith of the people.
Easter (the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox)
Celebrations: Easter is the most significant Christian holiday, marked by
elaborate religious services and traditional Easter processions.
Significance: Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Easter
symbolizes rebirth and hope.
May 1st and 2nd: Labor Day
Celebrations: Observed internationally, Labor Day in North Macedonia is
celebrated with parades and rallies honoring the contributions of workers.
Significance: Commemorating the labor movement, it shows respect for
workers.
May 24th: Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius
Celebrations: This day marks the anniversary of the Slavic alphabet and
culture, celebrated with academic conferences and cultural events.
Significance: Honoring the two saints for their contributions to Slavic
culture.
August 2nd: Ilinden Uprising Day
Celebrations: Various events are held to commemorate the 1903 uprising
against Ottoman rule.
Significance: Honoring national heroes and fostering national pride.
September 8th: Independence Day
Celebrations: Grand celebrations, including parades and concerts, mark North
Macedonia's independence.
Significance: Celebrating the nation's sovereignty and independence.
October 11th: National Day
Celebrations: Various celebrations express love for the country.
Significance: Commemorating the establishment of the nation and
strengthening national unity.
October 23rd: Day of the Struggle for Freedom
Celebrations: Commemorating the history of the national liberation struggle.
Significance: Fostering national pride and carrying on the revolutionary
spirit.
December 8th: St. Clement's Day
Celebrations: Honoring St. Clement, a Slavic apostle who made significant
contributions to the development of Slavic culture.
Significance: Commemorating a significant figure in Slavic culture.
Unique Public Holidays in North Macedonia
Iliden Day/Republic Day (Илинден/Ден на Републиката): August 2nd
Commemorates the Ilinden Uprising of 1903 against Ottoman rule. This is one of the most significant national holidays in Macedonia.
Day of the Macedonian Revolution (Ден на македонската револуција): October 23rd
Honors the long struggle of the Macedonian people for national independence.
St. Cyril and St. Methodius Day (Свети Кирил и Методиј): May 24th
Celebrates the 9th-century missionaries who introduced the Slavic alphabet to the Slavic world, significantly influencing the spread of Slavic culture.
St. Clement of Ohrid Day (Свети Климент Охридски): December 8th
Commemorates St. Clement of Ohrid, a Bulgarian and Macedonian saint and scholar who made significant contributions to the development of Slavic culture.
Public Holidays in North Macedonia in 2025
New Year's Day: January 1st
Orthodox Christmas: January 7th
Eid al-Fitr: March 31st (end of Ramadan)
Orthodox Easter: April 20th
Orthodox Easter Monday: April 21st
Labour Day: May 1st (International Workers' Day)
St. Cyril and St. Methodius Day: May 24th
Republic Day (Iliden Day): August 2nd
Independence Day: September 8th
Revolution Day: October 11th (Anti-Fascist Uprising Day)
Day of the Macedonian Revolution: October 23rd
St. Clement of Ohrid Day: December 8th
Operational Status of Logistics Providers During Holidays
The operational status of shipping companies, airlines, freight forwarders, railways, couriers, and logistics companies may vary during public holidays. Typically, these companies determine their service availability based on their specific business needs and local regulations. In North Macedonia, some services may be reduced or suspended during public holidays,but it's advisable to contact each company directly for the most accurate information.