German Unity Day in Germany: Dates and Nationwide Holiday Rules
View the global German Unity Day guide
German Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) is observed across Germany on 3 October. It commemorates German reunification in 1990 and is the federal national holiday. The Deutsche Bundesbank includes the applicable date among holidays observed throughout the Federal Republic.
German Unity Day
Holiday
Germany
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Saturday
Day
Oct
03
October 3, 2026
German Unity Day Date in Germany
Date
October 3, 2026
Day
Saturday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
Yes
Date Confirmed
Yes
German Unity Day Dates in Germany
German Unity Day 2026
- Confirmed
German Unity Day 2027
- Confirmed
German Unity Day 2028
- Confirmed
History of German Unity Day
The Unification Treaty made 3 October the legal Tag der Deutschen Einheit. The date marks the accession that completed German reunification in 1990.
Importance of German Unity Day
Germany’s Continued Remuneration Act requires normal pay when scheduled work is lost because of a legal holiday. That rule does not mean every operation closes, and state quiet-day laws can add separate restrictions.
How German Unity Day Is Celebrated in Germany
The state holding the Bundesrat presidency traditionally hosts the central ceremony and citizens’ festival, alongside commemorations elsewhere in Germany.
Office Impact
Federal, state and municipal offices normally close for Tag der Deutschen Einheit. Police, hospitals, transport and other essential services continue with holiday staffing.
Bank Impact
Branch access is limited, but payment processing depends on the specific system. Bundesbank distinguishes nationwide holidays, TARGET closures and additional bank non-business days, so settlement timing should be checked.
School Impact
Ordinary classes do not meet on this nationwide holiday. Longer Easter, Pentecost or Christmas breaks differ by Land because the Länder set most school-vacation dates.
Travel Information
The annual national celebration changes host city, so local access and transport effects vary. Consult the host programme and relevant operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is German Unity Day in Germany?
It is observed on 3 October.
What is the German name?
The German term is Tag der Deutschen Einheit.
Is holiday pay protected?
Scheduled work lost because of a legal holiday is covered by section 2 of the Continued Remuneration Act, subject to its conditions.