Good Friday in Germany: Dates and Nationwide Holiday Rules
View the global Good Friday guide
Good Friday (Karfreitag) is observed across Germany on the Friday before Easter. It is a solemn Christian day with additional quiet-holiday restrictions under state law. The Deutsche Bundesbank includes the applicable date among holidays observed throughout the Federal Republic.
Good Friday
Holiday
Germany
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Friday
Day
Apr
03
April 3, 2026
Good Friday Date in Germany
Date
April 3, 2026
Day
Friday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
Yes
Date Confirmed
Yes
Good Friday Dates in Germany
Good Friday 2026
- Confirmed
Good Friday 2027
- Confirmed
Good Friday 2028
- Confirmed
History of Good Friday
Karfreitag commemorates the Crucifixion on the Friday before Easter. It is nationwide and is also subject to additional quiet-day protections defined by each Land.
Importance of Good Friday
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 Good Friday Is Celebrated in Germany
Christian services and reflection give Good Friday its solemn character. State quiet-day law can restrict particular entertainment independently of the federal holiday-pay rule.
Office Impact
Federal, state and municipal offices normally close for Karfreitag. 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
Good Friday begins a nationwide Easter holiday period, but Länder restrictions and operator timetables differ. Confirm local rules and the relevant route.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Good Friday in Germany?
It is observed on the Friday before Easter.
What is the German name?
The German term is Karfreitag.
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.