Meaning & Origin
International Women’s Day, or Frauentag, is celebrated on March 8th and serves as a day to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a historical and cultural holiday that emerged from the labor movements of the early 20th century. The idea for an international day to honor women and promote their rights was first proposed at the 1910 International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen. The date, March 8th, commemorates a mass protest by female textile workers in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg), Russia, in 1917, which is widely seen as a key event that sparked the Russian Revolution. In Germany, the holiday has a special significance, particularly in the former East German states, where it was traditionally celebrated with gifts and festivities
Women’s Day will be celebrated on Saturday, March 8 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Sunday, March 8.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | March 8 (Saturday) | Berlin Mecklenburg-vorpommern |
| 2026 | March 8 (Sunday) | Berlin Mecklenburg-vorpommern |
How it’s Observed
In Germany, this holiday is regional. It is a public holiday only in Berlin and since 2019, also in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. In these states, schools, offices, and most shops are closed. The day is marked by various events, including marches, rallies, and demonstrations that advocate for gender equality, equal pay, and an end to gender-based violence. Many political and social organizations host discussions and workshops to raise awareness of women’s issues. A common tradition is for men to give flowers, particularly red carnations, to the important women in their lives as a sign of appreciation and respect. The atmosphere is a blend of solemn remembrance and joyful celebration of female empowerment.
Vacation Planning
The regional nature of Women’s Day presents a unique travel opportunity. For those living in Berlin or Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, it provides an additional day off that can be used for a city break or a weekend getaway. It’s a great chance to explore the vibrant events and discussions happening in Berlin. Conversely, for people in other German states, this day is a normal working day. This means that they can travel to Berlin to experience the special atmosphere of the holiday while their own city remains bustling with activity. It’s an excellent example of how Germany’s regional holidays can be leveraged for strategic vacation planning.