Planning your trip around a local public holiday can be a double-edged sword — it might mean closures, but it can also bring parades, street food, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Here are some public holidays you might actually want to seek out rather than avoid:
🎭 Carnival in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
- When: Usually February or March (varies by year)
- What’s Open: Beaches, street vendors, and most restaurants.
- What’s Closed: Some shops, banks, and smaller museums may close or operate on reduced hours.
- What to Do: Join a samba street party (bloco), watch the Sambadrome parade, or simply people-watch in the colorful chaos.
🎆 Bastille Day (France)
- When: July 14
- What’s Open: Many cafes and restaurants remain open, though some shops close for the day.
- What’s Closed: Smaller boutiques, offices, and banks often shut.
- What to Do: Enjoy the military parade on the Champs-Élysées, marvel at the evening fireworks, and picnic by the Seine.
🏮 Lunar New Year (China, Vietnam, South Korea)
- When: Late January or February
- What’s Open: Major tourist sites usually remain open, though hours may vary.
- What’s Closed: Many local businesses and smaller restaurants close for several days.
- What to Do: Catch dragon dances, taste street food, and watch fireworks light up the night sky.
🎉 Diwali (India)
- When: October or November
- What’s Open: Tourist attractions, markets, and street food stalls are often open (sometimes with altered hours).
- What’s Closed: Banks and government offices may close for a day or two.
- What to Do: Visit family-run sweet shops, enjoy spectacular fireworks displays, and admire homes decorated with lights and candles.
💀 Día de los Muertos (Mexico)
- When: November 1st and 2nd
- What’s Open: Cemeteries, community squares, altars in homes, markets.
- What’s Closed: Some government offices and banks may close, but most businesses stay open to cater to the festivities.
- What to Do: Visit cemeteries to see altars with marigolds and offerings, join street processions, and taste traditional foods like pan de muerto and sugar skulls.
Pro Tips
✅ Check local tourism websites for up-to-date opening hours during holidays.
✅ Book accommodations early, as hotels can fill quickly around popular holidays.
✅ Embrace the festivities — it’s a chance to experience local culture firsthand!
Want more tips? Stay tuned for more travel advice right here on Travel Holiday Checker! ✈️