Meaning & Origin
The Day of Repentance and Prayer, or Buß- und Bettag, is a Protestant holiday dedicated to repentance, reflection, and prayer. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages when days of prayer were called in times of war or plague. It is a deeply religious holiday that serves as a day for self-examination and spiritual renewal. The holiday’s fixed date, the Wednesday before the last Sunday of the church year (the last Wednesday before the first Sunday of Advent), gives it a unique place in the calendar.
Day of Repentance & Prayer will be celebrated on Saturday, November 22 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Wednesday, November 18.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | November 22 (Saturday) | All States |
| 2026 | November 18 (Wednesday) | All States |
How it’s Observed
This is a public holiday in only one German state: Saxony. In this region, schools, offices, and most shops are closed. The day is observed quietly, with special church services held for worship and reflection. The holiday was once a nationwide public holiday but was abolished in all but one state in 1995 to help fund nursing care. Its preservation in Saxony is a testament to the state’s historical and cultural ties to the Protestant church.
Vacation Planning
For residents of Saxony, the Day of Repentance and Prayer provides a valuable mid-week break. This is a great opportunity for a one-day trip or a short break. For people from other German states, it’s a normal working day, so traveling to Saxony during this time can offer a quiet and unique experience without the usual crowds. It’s a chance to witness a holiday that has largely disappeared from the rest of Germany and to understand the historical and regional differences within the country.
| Vacation Dates | Used Paid leave | Included holiday | Total vacation days | Applicable States |
| 16th Nov 2026, 17th Nov 2026, 19th Nov 2026, 20th Nov 2026 | 4 | 18th Nov 2026 | 9 days | Saxony |