Key Public Holidays in Brazil for 2025
Brazil’s public holidays are set by both the Gregorian calendar and some regional observances. Below is an overview of the key public holidays in Brazil for 2025:
| Date | Holiday | Description | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year’s Day | Celebrates the beginning of the new year. | Nationwide |
| February 25 | Carnival | A national festival marked by parades, music, and dancing before Lent begins. | Nationwide |
| February 26 | Carnival Holiday | The second day of celebrations for Carnival. | Nationwide |
| April 19 | Good Friday | A Christian observance marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. | Nationwide |
| May 1 | Labor Day | Honors the contributions of workers to Brazil’s economy. | Nationwide |
| June 15 | Corpus Christi | A Catholic celebration of the body and blood of Christ. | Nationwide |
| September 7 | Independence Day | Marks Brazil’s declaration of independence from Portugal in 1822. | Nationwide |
| October 12 | Nossa Senhora Aparecida Day | Honors Brazil’s patron saint, the Virgin Mary, and is also celebrated as Children’s Day. | Nationwide |
| November 2 | All Souls’ Day | A day to honor the dead, typically observed by visiting cemeteries. | Nationwide |
| November 15 | Proclamation of the Republic Day | Marks the day Brazil became a republic in 1889. | Nationwide |
| December 25 | Christmas Day | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a Christian holiday. | Nationwide |
Note: Dates for holidays such as Carnival and Easter may vary slightly from year to year based on the lunar calendar.
Regional Observances in Brazil
While public holidays are generally observed nationwide, there are a few regional observances in Brazil that may have more significance in certain areas or cultural groups. Below are some of the regional holidays celebrated within Brazil in 2025:
| Date | Holiday | Description | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 25 | Carnival (Regional) | Celebrations in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, and other areas with significant Carnival events. | Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, and other regions |
| June 24 | St. John’s Day | Celebrated in northeastern states, especially in the city of Campina Grande, with festivities. | Northeast States |
| November 20 | Black Consciousness Day | Honors the contributions of Black Brazilians to the country’s history. | Nationwide (specific observance in certain states) |
Employer Considerations for Managing Public Holidays in Brazil
Holiday Pay and Compliance:
- Paid Leave: Employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays as stipulated by Brazil’s labor laws.
- Overtime Compensation: If employees are required to work on public holidays, they are entitled to double the regular daily pay.
Business Continuity:
- Communicate Holiday Schedules: Notify employees in advance about the upcoming public holidays.
- Adjust Deadlines: Plan work schedules and project deadlines around holiday periods to ensure no disruption.
- Flexible Working Options: Offer flexible working arrangements for employees who may need to adjust their schedules around holiday dates.
Managing Public Holidays with EOR/PEO Services in Brazil
If you are expanding into Brazil, working with an Employer of Record (EOR) or Professional Employer Organization (PEO) can help streamline your operations:
- Payroll Compliance: Ensure accurate calculation and payment of holiday pay to employees in compliance with Brazilian labor laws.
- Legal Adherence: Maintain compliance with Brazil’s labor laws regarding public holidays and overtime pay.
- Leave Management: Efficiently manage employee leave during public holidays, including tracking and reporting.
Final Thoughts
The public holidays in Brazil for 2025 reflect the country’s rich cultural and historical traditions. By understanding and respecting these holidays, businesses can maintain a positive work environment and ensure compliance with local laws. Planning ahead and utilizing EOR/PEO services can streamline operations, enabling you to focus on growth in Brazil’s dynamic market.