Puerto Rico Public Holidays 2025
Puerto Rico has 21 public holidays and 10 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
Date | Day | Name | Type |
---|---|---|---|
1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
6 Jan | Mon | Epiphany | public |
13 Jan | Mon | Birthday of Eugenio María de Hostos | public |
20 Jan | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | public |
14 Feb | Fri | Valentine's Day | observance |
17 Feb | Mon | Washington's Birthday | public |
18 Feb | Tue | Birthday of Luis Muñoz Marín | public |
2 Mar | Sun | American Citizenship Day | public |
22 Mar | Sat | Emancipation Day | public |
15 Apr | Tue | Tax Day | observance |
16 Apr | Wed | Birthday of José de Diego | public |
20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | observance |
23 Apr | Wed | Administrative Professionals Day | observance |
11 May | Sun | Mother's Day | observance |
26 May | Mon | Memorial Day | public |
15 Jun | Sun | Father's Day | observance |
19 Jun | Thu | Juneteenth | public |
4 Jul | Fri | Independence Day | public |
21 Jul | Mon | Birthday of Don Luis Muñoz Rivera | public |
25 Jul | Fri | Puerto Rico Constitution Day | public |
27 Jul | Sun | Birthday of Dr. José Celso Barbosa | public |
1 Sep | Mon | Labour Day | public |
13 Oct | Mon | Columbus Day | public |
31 Oct | Fri | Halloween | observance |
11 Nov | Tue | Veterans Day | public |
19 Nov | Wed | Discovery of Puerto Rico | public |
27 Nov | Thu | Thanksgiving Day | public |
28 Nov | Fri | Day after Thanksgiving Day | observance |
24 Dec | Wed | Christmas Eve | optional |
25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
31 Dec | Wed | New Year's Eve | observance |
About Puerto Rico's Holidays
Puerto Rico mixes U.S. federal holidays with its own island traditions. People observe big national days like Christmas, New Year and Thanksgiving alongside public holidays for government and banks. These are days off and lots of official ceremonies happen.
Cultural life centers on strong Catholic festivals and lively community celebrations. Three Kings Day and Holy Week draw family gatherings, parades and religious events. Carnival season brings music, colorful costumes and street parties that many people attend.
Politics and identity show up in civic holidays and memorials honoring Puerto Rican history. Schools and businesses often close, while towns host fairs, food and music. The result is a blend of official observance and joyful local customs.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in Puerto Rico mix family time, music, and strong island traditions. Homes fill with laughter as relatives gather. People decorate with bright colors and lights. Children often play and learn old stories from grandparents.
Food is central. Families cook together preparing dishes like arroz con gandules, pasteles, and roast pork, plus sweet treats and coquito. Sharing plates and recipes keeps culture alive. Meals can last for hours as people talk, sing, and pass down cooking tips.
Public celebrations are lively. Streets host parades with bomba and plena rhythms, dancers, and colorful masks. Town plazas become meeting places for food stalls, crafts, and fireworks. The community spirit and warmth make each holiday feel special.
Travel Tips
Puerto Rico (PR) gets busy during the holiday season. Cities and towns have lights and events, and many visitors arrive. Expect crowded beaches, malls, and festivals, especially around weekends and major holiday dates.
Government offices and many banks close on official holidays. Some small shops and local services may close or have short hours. Airports, hospitals, and most tourist attractions stay open, but check specific hours before you go.
Flights and car rentals fill up fast and can cost more. Public buses and ferries run but may be crowded. Traffic increases near popular spots, so allow extra travel time and book transport early.
Book hotels and activities in advance. Carry some cash for markets and tips. Check holiday schedules for any places you must visit, and have flexible plans for crowds and delays.