Paraguay splits its holidays between patriotic dates — independence on 14 and 15 May — and religious ones such as the Virgin of Caacupé on 8 December.

How people take the days

The government shifts some holidays to build long weekends and occasionally decrees extra ones, usually with tourism in mind.

If you're visiting

The pilgrimage to Caacupé walks hundreds of thousands of people along the road from Asunción: expect closures and diversions for days.

If you live here

Movable holidays are announced at short notice, so confirm the working calendar with your employer early in the year.

Nearby countries

Neighbours of Paraguay — see their holidays, or compare the two calendars side by side.

What these days actually mean

Observance, business closures and transport impact for the next few dates.

Virgin of Caacupe

8 Dec 2026

Public

Observance: Officially recognised as a public holiday, so most people have the day off work.
Business: Expect offices, banks and the majority of shops to be closed.
Transport: Public transport usually runs a Sunday or holiday timetable.

General guidance based on this day's official classification, not country-specific reporting.

Christmas Day

25 Dec 2026

Public

Observance: The central Christian winter feast; in most countries the household gathering matters more than the church service.
Business: Near-total closure of retail, offices and banks. Expect the preceding afternoon to shut early too.
Transport: Skeleton or suspended services in many countries. Book intercity travel well ahead.