Singapore’s 2025 public holiday calendar is more than just a series of days off—it’s a vivid expression of the nation’s rich cultural tapestry and social balance. With 11 official public holidays declared for the year, residents can look forward to meaningful moments of celebration, spiritual reflection, and cherished time with loved ones.
In a multicultural society like Singapore, each holiday holds symbolic significance for different communities while also offering everyone an opportunity to pause and rejuvenate. Whether it’s celebrating Lunar New Year or reflecting during Vesak Day, these occasions are essential milestones in the national rhythm of life.
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A Rich Calendar of Multicultural Celebrations
From the first day of January to the final weeks of December, the 2025 holiday schedule weaves together major events from Singapore’s four main racial and religious groups—Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian.
The year kicks off with New Year’s Day on January 1, marking a global celebration of fresh starts. Shortly after, the Chinese New Year falls on January 29 and 30, ushering in festivities for the Chinese community with lion dances, family reunions, and symbolic dishes.
As the months progress, other significant festivals appear across the calendar:
- Hari Raya Puasa: Expected in March 2025, this marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with feasts and communal prayers.
- Good Friday (April 18): A Christian observance rooted in solemn reflection.
- Hari Raya Haji (June 6): A day of sacrifice, spirituality, and giving among Muslims.
- Vesak Day (May 12): Celebrated by Buddhists in honour of the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
- Deepavali (October 20): The Hindu festival of lights symbolising the victory of light over darkness.
- Christmas Day (December 25): Celebrated by Christians and many others in Singapore as a season of giving and joy.
All these holidays tell a collective story about Singapore’s respect for religious freedom, cultural identity, and community spirit.
Long Weekends in 2025
While 2025 may not offer an abundance of automatic long weekends, several public holidays align with weekends or Mondays—allowing workers and students to enjoy extended breaks.
Public Holidays Falling on Mondays:
- Good Friday – April 18 (Friday): Natural long weekend
- Deepavali – October 20 (Monday): Another 3-day break
- Hari Raya Puasa – March 31 (Monday): Tentative date, subject to change
For others that fall midweek, such as National Day on Saturday, August 9, employees may still benefit from a weekend of national pride and celebration.
With strategic use of annual leave, individuals can create personalized long weekends and travel plans—either for relaxation or for short trips to regional destinations.
Employee Entitlements and Work Regulations
Singapore’s Employment Act guarantees employees the right to 11 paid public holidays each calendar year. Employers are required by law to observe these dates or compensate employees accordingly.
Key Points on Work and Public Holidays:
- Employees who work on a public holiday are entitled to:
- An extra day’s salary, or
- A replacement day off (by mutual agreement)
- Employers and staff can also mutually agree to substitute a public holiday with another working day, offering workplace flexibility.
- Part-time employees are also covered under the Act and receive pro-rated public holiday benefits.
These rules ensure that workers receive fair recognition for their time and effort, especially when their duties require them to be on the job during national celebrations.
Public Holidays as Cultural Anchors
Beyond days off, Singapore’s holidays hold deep cultural and religious meaning. For many residents, these dates are sacred, spiritual, and filled with purpose.
- Vesak Day is a reminder of peace, compassion, and mindfulness.
- Hari Raya Haji encourages community, sacrifice, and giving to the less fortunate.
- Deepavali brings families together to decorate homes, light lamps, and offer prayers.
- Christmas is a time of charity, gratitude, and warmth—shared by people of many beliefs.
- National Day on August 9 is the unifying celebration of Singapore’s independence, complete with fireworks, parades, and the singing of patriotic songs.
These holidays help people reconnect—not only with family, but also with their values, heritage, and shared identity as Singaporeans.
Full List
| Holiday | Date | Day | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Start of the new year |
| Chinese New Year | January 29 & 30 | Wed & Thu | Major Chinese festival |
| Hari Raya Puasa* | March 31 | Monday | End of Ramadan |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian observance |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrating workers |
| Vesak Day | May 12 | Monday | Buddhist day of enlightenment |
| Hari Raya Haji* | June 6 | Friday | Muslim day of sacrifice |
| National Day | August 9 | Saturday | Independence Day |
| Deepavali* | October 20 | Monday | Hindu festival of lights |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian festival |
Note: Dates for Hari Raya Puasa, Hari Raya Haji, and Deepavali may be subject to change based on lunar calendar observations.
Cultural Unity Through Celebration
Singapore’s public holidays are a constant reminder of what binds the nation together—diversity, respect, and inclusion. With each festivity comes an opportunity to understand different cultures, share traditions, and foster national unity.
Events such as National Day parades, community-based Deepavali light-ups, or Chinese New Year lion dances not only celebrate the holiday itself but also invite people of all backgrounds to join in. They contribute to Singapore’s identity as a peaceful, multicultural society.
Whether you’re attending a temple ceremony or enjoying festive dishes with neighbours, these holidays play a crucial role in nurturing the country’s community spirit.
Final Thoughts
The Singapore Public Holidays for 2025 offer more than just a welcome break from work—they reflect the heart of the nation’s values. From solemn religious observances to joyous family reunions, each public holiday is a thread in the vibrant fabric of Singaporean life.
In a fast-paced society, these official days off offer time to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, celebrate culture, and reflect on what truly matters. As you mark these holidays on your calendar, remember that each one is a chance to enjoy not just rest—but also the beauty of shared traditions and collective identity.
FAQs
1. How many public holidays are there in Singapore in 2025?
A = There are 11 official public holidays in the Singapore 2025 calendar.
2. Are employees entitled to public holiday pay?
A = Yes, under the Employment Act, all employees are entitled to paid public holidays.
3. Can a public holiday be replaced with another day?
A = Yes, employers and employees may mutually agree to substitute a public holiday with another working day.
