Meaning & Origin
Whitsunday (Pfingstsonntag) and Whitmonday (Pfingstmontag), also known as Pentecost, are Christian holidays that celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ. This event is seen as the birth of the Christian Church. These are deeply religious holidays that take place 50 days after Easter Sunday. The name “Pfingsten” comes from the Greek “pentēkostē,” meaning “fiftieth.” In addition to its religious significance, Whitsunday is also seen as a celebration of the arrival of spring and new life.
Whitsunday will be celebrated on Sunday, June 8 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Saturday, June 9.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | June 8 (Sunday) | All States |
| 2026 | June 9 (Monday) | All States |
Whitmonday will be celebrated on Monday, May 25 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Saturday, May 26.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | May 25 (Sunday) | Brandenburg |
| 2026 | May 26 (Monday) | All States |
How it’s Observed
Whitsunday is a Sunday, so it is a non-working day. Whitmonday is a nationwide public holiday, with schools, offices, and most shops closed. The holiday is generally observed quietly, with families using the time to relax and enjoy the long weekend. Many people go on walks, bike rides, or have a barbecue with friends and family. In some regions, there are traditional parades and festivals, but the overall atmosphere is one of rest and leisure. The two-day holiday offers a much-needed break in late spring, before the summer season.
Vacation Planning
The long weekend created by Whitsunday and Whitmonday is a popular time for travel. It is a great opportunity to explore Germany’s countryside, visit a lake, or take a short trip to a neighboring country. Since it always falls on a Sunday and Monday, it’s a guaranteed two-day break. Travelers should be aware that popular destinations may be crowded, and booking in advance is advisable. The holiday is a chance to experience the German culture of “gemütlichkeit,” or coziness and comfort, as people enjoy the simple pleasures of life and the beauty of spring.
| Vacation Dates | Used Paid leave | Included holiday | Total vacation days | Applicable States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26th – 29th May 2026 | 4 | 26th May 2026 | 9 days | All states |