January 2024
- 1st (Mon): New Year’s Day – National holiday
- 6th (Sat): Orthodox Christmas Eve – Optional Holiday
- 7th (Sun): Orthodox Christmas Day – National holiday, Orthodox
- 8th (Mon): Day off for Orthodox Christmas Day – National holiday, Orthodox
- 19th (Fri): Epiphany (Orthodox) – Optional Holiday
- 27th (Sat): St Sava’s Day – Optional Holiday
February 2024
- 14th (Wed): Valentine’s Day – Observance
March 2024
- 8th (Fri): Mothers’ Day/International Women’s Day – Observance
- 11th (Mon): Ramadan Start (Tentative Date) – Observance
- 20th (Wed): March Equinox – Season
- 29th (Fri): Good Friday – Observance
- 30th (Sat): Easter Saturday – Observance
- 31st (Sun): Easter Sunday – Observance
April 2024
- 1st (Mon): Easter Monday – Optional Holiday
- 8th (Mon): International Romani Day (for Romani community) – Optional Holiday
- 10th (Wed): Eid al-Fitr (Tentative Date) – National holiday
- 31st (Sun): Daylight Saving Time starts – Clock change/Daylight Saving Time
May 2024
- 1st (Wed): Labor Day – National holiday
- 3rd (Fri): Good Friday (Orthodox) – Optional Holiday
- 4th (Sat): Easter Saturday (Orthodox) – Observance, Orthodox
- 5th (Sun): Easter Sunday (Orthodox) – Observance, Orthodox
- 6th (Mon): Easter Monday (Orthodox) – National holiday, Orthodox
June 2024
- 17th (Mon): Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) (Tentative Date) – Optional Holiday
- 20th (Thu): June Solstice – Season
- 21st (Fri): Friday before Pentecost – Optional Holiday
July 2024
- No holidays listed.
August 2024
- 2nd (Fri): Republic Day – National holiday
- 28th (Wed): Feast of the Assumption of Mary (Orthodox) – Optional Holiday
September 2024
- 8th (Sun): Independence Day – National holiday
- 9th (Mon): Day off for Independence Day – National holiday
- 22nd (Sun): September Equinox – Season
- 28th (Sat): International Bosniaks’ Day (for Bosniak community) – Optional Holiday
October 2024
- 11th (Fri): Day of People’s Uprising – National holiday
- 12th (Sat): First day of Yom Kippur (Jewish community) – Optional Holiday
- 23rd (Wed): Day of the Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle – National holiday
- 27th (Sun): Daylight Saving Time ends – Clock change/Daylight Saving Time
- 31st (Thu): Halloween – Observance
November 2024
- 1st (Fri): All Saints’ Day – Optional Holiday
- 22nd (Fri): Albanian Alphabet Day (Albanian community) – Optional Holiday
December 2024
- 8th (Sun): Saint Kliment Ohridski’s Day – National holiday
- 9th (Mon): Day off for Saint Kliment Ohridski’s Day – National holiday
- 21st (Sat): Turkish Language Day (Turkish community) – Optional Holiday
- 21st (Sat): December Solstice – Season
- 24th (Tue): Christmas Eve – Observance
- 25th (Wed): Christmas Day – Optional Holiday
- 31st (Tue): New Year’s Eve – Observance
Data source: https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/macedonia/2024
Are shops and businesses closed on public holidays in Skopje?
Yes, most shops and businesses, including government offices and banks, are closed on public holidays. Some essential services, such as hospitals and certain restaurants, may remain open.
How do public holidays affect public transportation in Skopje?
On public holidays, public transportation may operate on a reduced schedule, and certain routes might be affected. It is best to check with the local transport authority or the specific transportation service providers for the most up-to-date information.
Are tourist attractions open on public holidays in Skopje?
Generally, tourist attractions and historical sites in Skopje remain open on public holidays. However, it’s advisable to confirm the opening hours with each attraction in advance as some may have special operating hours or closures.
Are restaurants and cafes open on public holidays in Skopje?
Many restaurants and cafes in Skopje are open on public holidays. However, it’s recommended to check with individual establishments beforehand, especially if you have specific dining preferences or plans.
What are some traditional customs or events during public holidays in Macedonia?
Each holiday in Macedonia has its own unique customs and traditions. For example, on Orthodox Christmas Day, people attend church services and participate in festive family gatherings. During Vodici (listed as Epiphany), a cross is thrown into a nearby body of water, and young men compete to retrieve it, symbolizing the baptism of Jesus.
Are there any special events or festivals held during public holidays in Skopje?
Skopje often hosts various cultural events, festivals, and concerts during public holidays, especially on Independence Day and other significant national holidays. You can inquire with local tourist information centers for specific event schedules.
Is alcohol served and sold on public holidays in Skopje?
Yes, alcohol is generally available for purchase and consumption in restaurants, bars, and licensed establishments during public holidays. However, some smaller shops might have restricted hours.
Can I visit religious sites during public holidays in Skopje?
Yes, you can visit religious sites during public holidays. In fact, some religious sites might have special services or events on these occasions. Be respectful of the local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
How should I greet locals during public holidays in Skopje?
A polite greeting such as “Dobar den” (Good day) or “Sreken praznik” (Happy holiday) will be appreciated during public holidays in Skopje. English is widely spoken, but attempting a few words in Macedonian will be warmly received.
