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Freedom Day in Portugal

2026 holiday dates

Saturday, 25 April 2026

Confirmed — source checked

This is the first listed date for this year; a separate observance date has not been assigned.

About Liberation Day

Portugal observes 25 April as Freedom Day, Dia da Liberdade, a compulsory holiday commemorating the 1974 Carnation Revolution.

Public holiday / closure dates

  • — Public of holiday period · Confirmed — source checked

Bank, office and school arrangements require the applicable authority or institution notice. Missing scope data does not mean open.

Next supported occurrence

Sunday, 25 April 2027 · Confirmed — source checked

Next listed holiday day on or after today; this can be a closure day rather than the festival date.

2027 dates

  • — Public of holiday periodConfirmed — source checked

2028 dates

  • — Public of holiday periodConfirmed — source checked

Official sources and date status

Recorded confirmation and independent source review are shown separately. An institution-specific notice does not establish closure for every employer or school.

files.diariodarepublica.pt

Official public holiday law or calendar

Confirmed · Scope: public · Checked 2026-09-27

Portugal’s national mandatory holidays are shown. Municipal holidays and the autonomous regions’ local observances are outside this nationwide calendar.

Office arrangements

National and local government offices close, while official ceremonies can affect access near civic buildings.

Bank arrangements

Banks remain closed for normal branch transactions; online banking is generally available.

School arrangements

Schools close but often teach the revolution and democratic transition in activities before 25 April.

History

On 25 April 1974 the Armed Forces Movement ended the Estado Novo dictatorship. The revolution opened the way to decolonization, free elections and the democratic Constitution of 1976.

Why it matters

The holiday celebrates democracy, civil liberties and the peaceful character associated with carnations placed in soldiers’ rifles.

Observance

Parliament holds a solemn session, municipalities organize ceremonies, and concerts, marches and open-house events take place. Red carnations are prominent symbols.

Travel and planning

Lisbon events can draw large crowds around parliament and Avenida da Liberdade. Review traffic and public-transport notices.

Frequently asked questions

When is Freedom Day?

It is observed on 25 April.

What happened in 1974?

The Armed Forces Movement overthrew the Estado Novo dictatorship.

Why are carnations used?

They became the peaceful revolution’s defining popular symbol.

View all Portugal public holidays 2026

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