Public Holidays in Liechtenstein for 2025

New Year’s Day Introduction

New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is observed worldwide with various traditions and festivities. This day symbolizes new beginnings and fresh starts, prompting people to set resolutions aimed at self-improvement. Historically, the celebration dates back thousands of years, with the ancient Babylonians being among the first to celebrate the new year around 2000 BCE, aligning it with the spring equinox. Unique customs abound globally; for instance, in Spain, it’s customary to eat twelve grapes at midnight, one for each stroke of the clock, while in Japan, families visit temples and shrines to pray for good fortune. Additionally, New Year’s Day has been a public holiday in many countries since the late 19th century, uniting diverse cultures in a shared hope for prosperity and joy in the year ahead.

Berchtold Day Introduction

Berchtold Day, celebrated on January 2nd, is a unique holiday primarily observed in Switzerland and parts of southern Germany. This intriguing day honors St. Berchtold, who is associated with peace and reconciliation. Traditionally seen as a day to extend the festive spirit of the New Year, it encourages families and friends to gather and celebrate together. Interestingly, Berchtold Day is often marked by outdoor activities, such as hiking and tobogganing, reflecting the region’s beautiful winter landscapes. In some areas, it has also become a time for community events, including bonfires and local fairs. The day serves as a reminder to cherish connections and foster goodwill, embodying the spirit of togetherness that characterizes the holiday season.

Epiphany Introduction

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, marks the culmination of the Christmas season in many Christian traditions, commemorating the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles through the visit of the Magi. This holiday, derived from the Greek word “epiphaneia,” meaning “manifestation,” holds profound significance across various cultures. In Western Christianity, it is often associated with the Three Wise Men who traveled to honor the newborn Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In some Eastern Orthodox traditions, Epiphany is celebrated as Theophany, focusing on the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. Unique customs abound: in Spain, the “Dia de los Reyes” features parades and the sharing of a special cake, while in Italy, children await the arrival of La Befana, a kindly witch who brings gifts. Epiphany not only highlights the importance of divine revelation but also serves as a vibrant reminder of the diverse ways cultures celebrate this sacred moment in the Christian calendar.

Candlemas Introduction

Candlemas, celebrated on February 2nd, marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, symbolizing the return of light and the preparation for the coming spring. Originating from the ancient Christian tradition, this day commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary. An interesting aspect of Candlemas is its name, derived from the custom of blessing candles, which were used in churches and homes to symbolize Jesus as the light of the world. In various cultures, Candlemas is also associated with weather predictions; folklore suggests that if the day is sunny, winter will linger, while a cloudy day heralds an early spring. This blend of religious significance and seasonal tradition makes Candlemas a unique celebration, bridging faith and nature in a captivating way.

Carnival/Shrove Tuesday Introduction

Carnival, also known as Shrove Tuesday, is a vibrant and festive celebration that marks the day before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. This lively holiday is characterized by indulgent feasting, colorful parades, and exuberant parties, often featuring elaborate costumes and masks. Originating from the Latin term “carne vale,” meaning “farewell to meat,” Carnival traditionally signifies the last day to enjoy rich foods before the Lenten season of fasting and penance begins. Around the world, diverse cultures celebrate Carnival with unique customs; for instance, Brazil is famous for its electrifying Rio Carnival, while Venice boasts its iconic masked balls. Interestingly, in some places, the day is also associated with pancake races, where participants race while flipping pancakes—a fun nod to the holiday’s history of using up ingredients before Lent. As communities come together to celebrate, Carnival serves as a reminder of joy, unity, and the rich tapestry of global traditions.