Public Holidays in Romania

Summary:

This article outlines Romania's public holiday system, which encompasses national, religious, and cultural celebrations that offer opportunities for reflection, festivity, and connection to the nation's history and present. It also provides a list of public holidays in Romania for the year 2025 and describes the operational status of logistics providers during these holidays.

Overview

Romania celebrates a rich tapestry of national holidays throughout the year, commemorating significant historical events, religious traditions, and cultural heritage. These observances provide opportunities for reflection, celebration, and connection with the nation's past and present.

1. January 1: New Year's Day (Anul Nou)

Marking the dawn of a new year, Anul Nou is a vibrant celebration filled with revelry, hope, and the anticipation of fresh beginnings. Families gather for festive meals, exchanging gifts and cherishing moments together. Traditional dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and cozonac (sweet bread) grace the tables, while fireworks illuminate the night sky.

2. January 24: Union Day (Ziua Unirii)

Commemorating the unification of Transylvania, Bessarabia, and Bukovina with the Kingdom of Romania in 1918, Ziua Unirii holds immense historical significance. Grand parades, patriotic gatherings, and cultural events showcase the nation's pride and unity.

3. Easter (Paștele)

As a deeply religious country, Romania observes Easter with great reverence and devotion. The exact date varies according to the Orthodox calendar, but the essence remains the same - celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Families attend church services, prepare elaborate Easter meals, and exchange decorated eggs, symbolizing new life and rebirth.

4. May 1: Labor Day (Ziua Muncii)

Honoring the contributions of workers and the labor movement, Ziua Muncii is a day of solidarity and celebration. Trade unions organize rallies and demonstrations, while parks and squares transform into vibrant venues for concerts, performances, and family gatherings.

5. June 1: Children's Day (Ziua Copilului)

Dedicated to the joy and innocence of children, Ziua Copilului is a day filled with laughter, fun, and special treats. Parks and playgrounds become bustling hubs of activity, hosting games, competitions, and entertainment for the little ones. Parents and caregivers express their love and appreciation for their children, making it a cherished occasion for families.

6. Whitsun (Rusaliile)（50 days after Easter）

Marking the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, Rusaliile holds a special place in the Romanian Orthodox tradition. Church services are filled with prayers and hymns, while homes are decorated with green branches and flowers, symbolizing the renewal of life.

7. August 15: Assumption of Mary (Sfânta Maria Mare)

Honoring the Virgin Mary's ascension into heaven, Sfânta Maria Mare is a deeply revered religious holiday in Romania. Pilgrimages to Marian shrines are common, and special church services commemorate the Virgin Mary's role as the Mother of God.

8. November 30: Saint Andrew's Day (Sfântul Andrei)

As the patron saint of Romania, Saint Andrew is celebrated with great devotion on Sfântul Andrei. Traditional customs include baking special bread shaped like a cross, placing basil sprigs under pillows for prophetic dreams, and organizing fortune-telling games.

9. December 1: National Day (Ziua Națională)

Commemorating the establishment of the modern Romanian state in 1918, Ziua Națională is a grand celebration of national pride and unity. Military parades showcase the nation's strength, while fireworks illuminate the skies, and patriotic fervor fills the air.

10. December 25: Christmas Day (Crăciunul)

Crăciunul is a deeply cherished holiday in Romania, steeped in religious traditions and heartwarming customs. Families gather for festive meals, exchange gifts, and decorate their homes with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments. Traditional carols known as colinde resonate throughout the streets, creating a magical atmosphere of joy and goodwill.

Special holidays

National Day (Ziua Națională a României): December 1st commemorates the Great Union of Romania in 1918.

Union Day (Ziua Unirii): January 24th commemorates the union of Wallachia and Moldavia in 1859.

Public Holidays in Romania in 2025
Date	Holiday	Romanian name
January 1	New Year's Day	Anul Nou
January 24	Union Day	Ziua Unirii
March 10	Orthodox Easter	Paștele
May 1	Labor Day	Ziua Muncii
June 1	Children's Day	Ziua Copilului
June 8	Pentecost	Rusaliile
August 15	Assumption of Mary	Sfânta Maria Mare
November 30	Saint Andrew's Day	Sfântul Andrei
December 1	National Day	Ziua Națională
December 25	Christmas	Crăciunul

Operational Status of Logistics Providers in Romania During Holidays

Shipping companies: Some shipping companies may offer limited services on public holidays. It is recommended to check with the specific shipping company for their holiday schedule and service availability.
Airlines: Most airlines will operate normally on public holidays, but there may be some schedule adjustments. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance and check flight schedules.
Freight forwarders: Some freight forwarders may offer limited services on public holidays. It is recommended to contact your freight forwarder in advance to confirm their holiday hours and service availability.
Railways: The Romanian National Railway Company (CFR) will operate most trains on public holidays, but there may be some schedule adjustments. It is recommended to check train schedules in advance.
Couriers: Some courier companies may offer limited services on public holidays. It is recommended to contact your courier company in advance to confirm their holiday hours and service availability.
Logistics companies: Some logistics companies may offer limited services on public holidays. It is recommended to contact your logistics company in advance to confirm their holiday hours and service availability.