Holidays

Holidays in Slovakia

Slovakia has only existed as an independent state since 1993. The many festive days commemorating the history of the fledgling nation are a testament to the pride Slovaks have in their country.

Overview

Day of the Creation of the Slovak Republic – 01 January

Three Kings’ Day and Christmas Day of Orthodox Christians – January 06

Karif Friday – Flexible

Easter Monday – Flexible

Victory Day over Fascism – May 09

Holiday of St. Cyril and Methodius – July 05

Anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising – August 29

Day of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic – 01 September

Holiday of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, Patroness of Slovakia – September 15

All Saints’ Day – November 01

Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy – November 17

Christmas Eve – December 24

01st Christmas Day – December 25

02nd Christmas Day – December 26

Worth knowing about selected holidays

Day of the Creation of the Slovak Republic

All over the world, people welcome the New Year on this day, but for Slovaks it has another meaning. Czechs and Slovaks decided on December 31, 1992 to dissolve their federation on January 01, 1993. It was the birth of Slovakia as an independent state.

Victory Day over fascism

The unconditional surrender of the Wehrmacht and thus the end of World War II is celebrated on May 9. Previously, the day of victory over fascism was celebrated on May 8.

Day of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic

On September 1, 1992, the Slovak National Council adopted its own constitution. Parts of it entered into force as early as October 1, 1992. After the disintegration of Czechoslovakia on 1 January 1993, the constitution became finally binding.

Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy

This day commemorates both the student demonstrations against the Nazi regime and the Velvet Revolution in Prague. The demonstrations in Prague heralded the end of socialism and the beginning of democratic development in Slovakia.

Christmas

It’s already worth visiting Slovakia in the run-up to Christmas, as countless Christmas markets spread a contemplative mood. On St. Barbara’s Day, which falls on December 4, young girls place cherry branches in a vase. If these blossom by Christmas Eve, the ladies will be lucky in love next year. Women parade through the streets on 12 December to scare the men. The traditional Christmas dinner consists of mushroom soup, fish and sauerkraut.