The end of 2024 marks the approach of the new year, bringing along thoughts of travel and festivities. With 2025 just around the corner, several countries have revealed their holiday calendars, foreseeing moments for celebration, rest, and family gatherings.
Starting with Colombia, the education authorities have finalized the school calendar for 2025. According to local education departments, the new school year kicks off on January 20, 2025, and continues throughout the semester until June 15. After the mid-year break from June 16 to July 6, classes will resume on July 7 and conclude by November 30, 2025. Notably, the students will enjoy breaks for Christmas starting from December 23, 2024, until January 19, 2025, as well as other holidays throughout the year, including Holy Week from April 14 through April 20, and the October school recess from October 6 to October 12.
Colombia's education system allows municipal education secretaries to determine exact dates for the start and end of classes and school holidays. This autonomy provides some flexibility, but all must adhere to the national law stipulating at least 40 weeks of classes and 12 weeks of vacations, making planning around holidays important for families. Private institutions also have the freedom to set their own schedules, which helps tailor the academic experience to their community needs.
Turning to Argentina, the national government has similarly released its 2025 holiday calendar, offering citizens 19 days off with several marked as fixed and others as movable holidays. Fixed holidays include New Year’s Day on January 1, Labor Day on May 1, and Independence Day on July 9. Around these, notable periods include Carnaval from March 3 to 4 and the Day of the Sovereignty on November 24, reminding Argentines of their rich cultural history and commemoration of significant events.
These holidays play dual roles, not only serving as time for nationwide reflection but also stimulating local tourism economies. Each long weekend created by these holidays is seen as a chance for families to travel, explore, and take advantage of the natural beauty of Argentina.
Meanwhile, the Balearic Islands have announced their labor calendar for 2025, which lists 12 non-working holidays, with December 26 added as the day of San Esteban, diversifying the local holiday experience. The main festivities include traditional celebrations such as the Epiphany on January 6 and the Feast of the Assumption on August 15. Culture thrives within these holidays, where local communities engage through various celebrations—highlighting the islands' vibrant traditions.
Spain's celebration of the Day of the Islands on March 1 reflects significant autonomy, marking the region’s unique identity within the nation. Events involving music and local artistry proliferate, allowing community engagement and participation.
Lastly, Peru has also confirmed its 2025 holiday calendar, showcasing 16 national holidays including both religious and civic observances. Among key dates are Labor Day on May 1 and Independence Day on July 28 and 29, reflecting Peruvian pride and history. The government sets additional non-working days aimed at boosting domestic tourism, which often allows for longer weekends and encourages exploration of Peru's diverse regions.
Interestingly, the distinction between mandatory holidays and discretionary non-labor days is particularly emphasized, where employers retain the discretion on granting the non-working days. The national government creates holidays strategically to facilitate domestic travel, enhancing both economic movement and cultural appreciation.
These holiday observances transcend mere days off. They reflect cultural identity, historical commemoration, and act as pivotal points within the calendar, allowing societies to pause, reflect, and celebrate their collective journeys.
