The most widespread holidays in the world

Some holidays are local, but a handful are observed almost everywhere. Here

are the most widespread, measured by the number of countries that recognise

them.

The global top five

New Year's Day is the most universal holiday in the dataset, observed in 194

countries. It marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year and is celebrated

on 1 January almost everywhere. Many countries also observe New Year's Eve

the night before.

Christmas Day is observed in 178 countries, making it the second most

widespread holiday. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ on 25 December and

has both religious and cultural significance. The Christmas cycle also

includes Christmas Eve, Boxing Day and Epiphany, which are public holidays in

many countries.

Good Friday and Easter Monday are part of the Easter cycle, the most important

feast in the Christian calendar. Good Friday marks the crucifixion and Easter

Monday the day after the resurrection. Both are public holidays in more than

120 countries, mostly in Europe and the Americas.

Labour Day, also called International Workers' Day in many countries, is

observed in 131 countries. It is usually held on 1 May, although some

countries celebrate it on the first Monday of September instead.

Explore each of these on their own holiday pages to see the

local names and dates in every country.