Planning your year ahead starts with knowing the official public holidays in Moldova for 2026. Whether you’re scheduling business meetings, booking travel, or organizing family events, understanding Moldova’s national non-working days helps you make the most of your time. This comprehensive guide covers all 13 confirmed nationwide public holidays recognized by the Government of the Republic of Moldova, ensuring you’re prepared for work closures, long weekend opportunities, and important cultural celebrations throughout the year.
Moldova National Public Holidays 2026
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
| January 7 | Wednesday | Orthodox Christmas Day |
| January 8 | Thursday | Orthodox Christmas Day Holiday |
| March 8 | Sunday | International Women’s Day |
| April 12 | Sunday | Orthodox Easter Sunday |
| April 13 | Monday | Orthodox Easter Monday |
| April 20 | Monday | Memorial Day |
| May 1 | Friday | International Day of Solidarity of Workers |
| May 9 | Saturday | Victory Day |
| June 1 | Monday | International Children’s Day |
| August 27 | Thursday | Independence Day |
| August 31 | Monday | Language Day |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day |
Key Dates and Planning Tips for 2026
Moldova’s 2026 holiday calendar presents several strategic opportunities for extended breaks and travel planning. The year begins with an extended New Year celebration, as Orthodox Christmas on January 7-8 falls midweek, creating potential for a longer winter vacation when combined with personal leave days.
Spring brings multiple public holidays, particularly in April and May. Orthodox Easter falls on April 12-13, with Easter Monday providing a three-day weekend. Meanwhile, Memorial Day on April 20 offers another Monday off. Consequently, May starts strong with International Workers’ Day on Friday, May 1, followed by Victory Day on Saturday, May 9, making it an excellent month for short getaways.
Summer planning should note that June 1 (International Children’s Day) falls on a Monday, creating a long weekend perfect for family activities. However, Independence Day on August 27 and Language Day on August 31 both occur on weekdays, so strategic vacation planning around these dates can maximize time off.
The year concludes with Christmas Day falling on Friday, December 25, naturally extending into a weekend celebration. Private businesses typically remain open during most holidays except New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and Christmas, though government offices and banks close for all national holidays.
For those planning international travel, remember to check current local times around the world when coordinating across time zones. Additionally, if you’re timing specific activities or breaks during your vacation, online timer tools can help manage your schedule effectively.
Understanding Moldova’s Public Holiday System
The Republic of Moldova observes 13 official national public holidays throughout the year, as designated by the government. These holidays are recognized nationwide and typically result in closures of government offices, banks, and many businesses. It’s important to note that this list excludes regional holidays specific to autonomous territorial units like Gagauzia or local celebrations in individual cities such as Chișinău Day or Bălți Day.
Moldova’s holiday calendar reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, blending Eastern European traditions with Orthodox Christian observances. The nation celebrates both Orthodox and Western Christmas, acknowledging its diverse cultural connections. Furthermore, holidays like Victory Day and Independence Day commemorate significant historical events that shaped modern Moldova.
Most retail businesses remain open during holidays except for the major celebrations: New Year’s Day, Orthodox Christmas, Independence Day, and Christmas Day. However, private sector companies often observe additional holidays based on their internal policies. Therefore, it’s advisable to confirm business hours before visiting establishments during holiday periods.
For more detailed information about scheduling and time management around these holidays, explore our comprehensive collection of time and date guides to enhance your planning capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which holidays are recognized nationwide in Moldova?
Moldova recognizes 13 official national public holidays in 2026: New Year’s Day, Orthodox Christmas Day (January 7-8), International Women’s Day, Orthodox Easter Sunday and Monday, Memorial Day, International Day of Solidarity of Workers, Victory Day, International Children’s Day, Independence Day, Language Day, and Christmas Day. These holidays apply across the entire country and are designated as non-working days.
Which holidays create long weekends in Moldova 2026?
Several holidays in 2026 create extended weekend opportunities. Orthodox Easter Monday (April 13) and Memorial Day (April 20) both fall on Mondays, creating three-day weekends. International Workers’ Day on Friday, May 1, extends into the weekend. International Children’s Day on Monday, June 1, provides another long weekend. Additionally, Christmas Day on Friday, December 25, naturally creates a three-day holiday period.
Are any public holidays in Moldova subject to change?
While Moldova’s core national holidays are established by law and rarely change, it’s always prudent to verify dates closer to the actual holiday, particularly for movable feasts like Orthodox Easter, which follows the Julian calendar. Government announcements occasionally adjust specific observances, so checking official sources before finalizing major plans is recommended.
Do businesses remain open during public holidays?
Business operations during public holidays vary by sector. Government offices, banks, and postal services close on all 13 national holidays. Most retail businesses close only on major holidays like New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and Christmas, but remain open during other observances. Private companies establish their own policies, often observing fewer holidays than the official calendar specifies.
What’s the difference between national and local holidays in Moldova?
National holidays apply countrywide and are officially recognized non-working days for all citizens. Local holidays, such as Chișinău Day or Bălți Day, celebrate specific regions or cities but don’t typically result in nationwide work closures. This guide focuses exclusively on the 13 confirmed national public holidays that affect the entire country.
Conclusion: Plan Your Year with Confidence
Understanding Moldova’s official public holidays for 2026 empowers you to organize your year effectively, whether for business scheduling, travel arrangements, or personal planning. With 13 national holidays spread throughout the year, there are numerous opportunities for extended breaks and cultural celebrations. Remember that these dates represent only nationwide holidays, excluding regional observances that may affect specific localities.
For the most current information about Moldova’s holidays and assistance with international scheduling, visit our main public holidays and time zone resources. Stay informed about any last-minute changes to the holiday calendar by checking official government sources periodically, and bookmark this page for quick reference when planning events throughout 2026.