Boxing Day 2025
Date: December 26, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Croatia Public Holidays
Description
Boxing Day in Croatia is called St Stephen's Day. It is a public holiday that follows Christmas. People use the day to remember Saint Stephen, who is important in Christian history as the first martyr for the faith.
The holiday takes place every year on December 26. Schools, many businesses, and government offices are closed so people can rest after Christmas. Because it is a national holiday, workers have the day off and families spend quiet time together.
This day is significant mostly for its religious meaning. Churches hold services that honor Saint Stephen. The day also continues the spirit of the Christmas season and encourages reflection on faith, community, and care for others.
As part of Croatia's cultural calendar, December 26 links modern life with long standing religious traditions. It helps people remember shared history and values that are important across the country.
Traditions
In many Croatian towns families and neighbors visit each other on Boxing Day. People sing kolende, short Christmas songs, and children sometimes perform small nativity plays. Villages hold folk dances and simple processions with local costumes and music.
Traditional foods are served from the big Christmas table. Families share roast meats, sarma cabbage rolls, and seafood on the coast. Sweet treats like fritule and kroštule appear again. Leftovers from Christmas dinner are common and passed around.
Some communities keep rituals for blessings and health. Priests or elders may sprinkle holy water on homes, animals, or vineyards. Visiting graves of relatives and saying prayers is also a quiet custom for many families.
Travel Tips
Many shops and some museums have reduced hours or are closed on Boxing Day. Plan ahead by checking opening times, booking restaurants or tickets, and carrying cash for smaller shops or closed card terminals.
Public transport can run less often and ferries may be busy. Travel early or late to avoid crowds, arrive at stations early, and allow extra time for transfers and luggage. Keep a copy of emergency numbers and pharmacy locations.
Join community events or quieter coastal walks to enjoy the day safely and respectfully. Support local businesses and follow any crowd safety rules at busy tourist sites.