Key Public Holidays in Colombia for 2025
Colombia celebrates a mix of national holidays and cultural observances that businesses must be aware of. These dates are significant for managing operations, employee leave, and ensuring compliance with Colombian labor regulations.
| Date | Holiday | Description |
|---|
| January 1 | New Year’s Day | Marks the beginning of the year with nationwide celebrations, family gatherings, and public events. |
| March 19 | Saint Joseph’s Day | Celebrated in honor of Saint Joseph, particularly in Catholic communities, with local festivities and religious observances. |
| April 6 | Good Friday | A religious holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, observed with solemn processions and church services. |
| May 1 | Labor Day | A day to recognize the achievements of workers, celebrated with parades, demonstrations, and public celebrations across the country. |
| June 15 | Feast of the Sacred Heart | A religious holiday celebrated by the Catholic community, with processions and church services. |
| July 20 | Independence Day | Commemorates Colombia’s independence from Spain, marked by military parades, cultural performances, and nationwide celebrations. |
| August 7 | Battle of Boyacá Day | A day to remember the pivotal Battle of Boyacá in 1819, a decisive event in Colombia’s independence struggle, celebrated with patriotic events and historical reenactments. |
| October 12 | Columbus Day | Celebrates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas, marked by various cultural events, especially in coastal regions. |
| November 1 | All Saints’ Day | A religious observance honoring all saints, with masses and church services across the country. |
| December 8 | Immaculate Conception Day | A religious holiday celebrating the belief in the Virgin Mary’s immaculate conception, with religious observances and local festivities. |
| December 25 | Christmas Day | Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas is widely celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and religious services. |
Additional Observances in Colombia
In addition to official public holidays, Colombia also observes a few cultural and regional events that, while not official holidays, may influence work schedules and company operations.
| Date | Observance | Description |
|---|
| February 14 | Valentine’s Day | A day to celebrate love and affection between partners, friends, and family, though not an official holiday. |
| November 2 | Day of the Dead | A religious and cultural observance where families honor deceased relatives, often with gatherings and visits to cemeteries. |
Employer Considerations for Managing Public Holidays in Colombia
National vs. Cultural Observances
While not all cultural events are official public holidays, they can still influence employee morale and engagement. Understanding the significance of both national and cultural observances can help businesses create a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
Managing Public Holidays with EOR/PEO Services
For international businesses operating in Colombia, partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR) or Professional Employer Organization (PEO) simplifies holiday management by:
- Ensuring Compliance: EOR/PEO services help businesses comply with Colombian labor laws, ensuring employees receive appropriate holiday pay and benefits.
- Payroll Adjustments: Managing payroll for holiday overtime or substitute leave is easier with EOR/PEO services.
- Efficient Leave Tracking: EOR/PEO services assist businesses in accurately tracking holiday leave and ensuring timely processing of time off.
Holiday Pay and Compliance in Colombia
Colombian labor law stipulates the following:
- Paid Leave: Employees are entitled to paid leave on official public holidays. If they work on these holidays, they are generally entitled to additional pay (typically double or a special rate).
- Substitute Holidays: If a holiday falls on a weekend, businesses may offer substitute leave days, depending on the employment contract.
Productivity and Holiday Planning
To minimize disruptions during the holiday season, businesses can take the following steps:
- Advance Communication: Inform employees about holiday schedules early, allowing them to plan their leave accordingly.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible work options or remote work can help businesses accommodate holiday schedules without compromising productivity.
- Project Adjustments: Plan projects and deadlines around public holidays to ensure business continuity and meet goals without delays.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Colombia’s public holiday calendar for 2025 provides valuable insights for workforce planning. By recognizing both official holidays and cultural observances, businesses can better manage operations, stay compliant with labor laws, and foster a positive work environment for employees.
