Public and Special Holidays in Puerto Rico
Summary:As an autonomous territory of the United States, Puerto Rico's public holidays have many similarities to those of the mainland United States, while also retaining some unique traditional festivals.
Statutory Public Holidays
These holidays are national, and government agencies, schools, and most businesses will be closed.
New Year's Day: January 1, celebrating the arrival of the new year.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: The third Monday of January each year,
commemorating civil rights leader Martin Luther King.
Presidents' Day: The third Monday of February each year, commemorating all
previous presidents of the United States.
Good Friday: The Friday before Easter, an important Christian holiday.
Easter: The date of Easter is not fixed each year, but is usually in March or
April.
Memorial Day: The last Monday of May each year, commemorating soldiers who died
in war.
Independence Day: July 4, celebrating the independence of the United States.
Labor Day: Celebrates the contributions of workers on the first Monday of
September.
Columbus Day: Celebrates the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus on
the second Monday of October.
Veterans Day: Celebrates veterans on November 11.
Thanksgiving Day: Celebrates the harvest on the fourth Thursday of November.
Christmas Day: Celebrates the birth of Jesus on December 25.
Special Holidays and Celebrations
Three Kings' Day: Celebrates the visit of the Magi after the birth of Jesus on
January 6.
Holy Week: Celebrates the week before Easter, an important celebration for
Catholics.
Puerto Rican Culture Day: Celebrates the cultural heritage of Puerto Rico on
April 21.
Puerto Rico Day: Celebrates the establishment of Puerto Rico as a U.S. territory on July 25.
Notes
Holiday arrangements may be subject to change: Specific holiday dates and
arrangements may be adjusted based on government announcements.
Business hours: During the holidays, the business hours of some stores and restaurants may be shortened or adjusted.
