bank holidays — Bank holidays in Cyprus for 2026 will include three holiday weekends, offering a mix of long weekends and a significant four-day Easter break. However, some workers will miss out on two public holidays that fall on Saturdays.
Bank holidays: Significant Holidays and Long Weekends
The year 2026 presents an appealing calendar for those looking to plan time off. It features three distinct three-day weekends, allowing for extended periods of rest and leisure. The holidays are as follows:
- Green Monday: Saturday 21 February to Monday 23 February
- May Day: Friday 1 May to Sunday 3 May
- Whit Monday: Saturday 30 May to Monday 1 June
Four-Day Easter Break
Among the most anticipated times of the year, the Easter break spans from Friday 10 April to Monday 13 April, allowing for a four-day weekend. This period coincides with Orthodox Easter, which falls on Sunday 12 April, one week after Catholic Easter on Sunday 5 April.
Public Holidays That Fall on Weekends
Unfortunately for many workers, two notable public holidays in 2026 will fall on Saturdays, which means no additional time off. These are:
- Assumption of the Virgin Mary: Saturday 15 August
- Boxing Day: Saturday 26 December
As these holidays do not provide a weekday off, most employees will miss out on the extended time off that could have been enjoyed if they had fallen on a weekday.
Complete List of Public Holidays in 2026
For comprehensive planning, here is the full list of public holidays in Cyprus for 2026:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday 1 January
- Epiphany: Tuesday 6 January
- Green Monday: Monday 23 February
- Annunciation: Wednesday 25 March
- Greek Independence Day: Wednesday 25 March
- Easter Weekend: Friday 10 April to Monday 13 April
- May Day: Friday 1 May
- Whit Monday: Monday 1 June
- Assumption of the Virgin Mary: Saturday 15 August
- Ohi Day: Wednesday 28 October
- Christmas Day: Friday 25 December
- Boxing Day: Saturday 26 December
This list provides a clear overview for planning holidays and activities throughout the year.
Implications for Workers
The falling of two public holidays on Saturdays has raised concerns among employees who look forward to extended time off. While the long weekends provide an opportunity for leisure and relaxation, the loss of days for the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and Boxing Day means that some workers will find themselves with fewer breaks compared to previous years.
Such changes may encourage workers to plan their annual leave around the available holidays to maximise time off. With strategic planning, employees can still enjoy a fulfilling break throughout the year, despite the limitations posed by weekend holidays.
Looking Ahead
As workers and organisations prepare for 2026, it becomes essential to navigate the holiday calendar effectively. Understanding when public holidays occur can aid in planning vacations and time off, ensuring that everyone can make the most of the days available.
With a mix of long weekends and a significant Easter break, 2026 promises to be a year of both work and leisure for the people of Cyprus. Although the impact of weekend holiday falls may be felt, there remains ample opportunity for enjoyment throughout the year.
