Public Holidays in Kosovo in 2024
Kosovo, a landlocked country located in the Balkans region of Europe, celebrates various public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are significant to the nation’s culture, history, and religious traditions. In 2024, Kosovo will observe a range of public holidays, each with its own importance and customs.
National Holidays
New Year’s Day (Dita e Vitit të Ri) – January 1st
New Year’s Day in Kosovo marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is celebrated with parties, fireworks, and gatherings with family and friends. Many people also attend church services or participate in cultural events to welcome the new year.
Orthodox Christmas Day (Krishtlindjet Ortodokse) – January 7th
Orthodox Christmas Day is celebrated by the Serbian Orthodox community in Kosovo. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar. Serbian Orthodox Christians attend church services and participate in traditional customs and rituals to observe the holiday.
International Women’s Day (Dita Ndërkombëtare e Gruas) – March 8th
International Women’s Day is observed in Kosovo to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in society. It is a day to honor women’s rights and gender equality. Many organizations and institutions hold events and activities to empower women and promote gender equity.
Labour Day (Dita Ndërkombëtare e Punëtorëve) – May 1st
Labour Day in Kosovo is dedicated to workers’ rights and social justice. It is celebrated with rallies, marches, and demonstrations organized by trade unions and workers’ organizations. Many people also enjoy leisure activities and spend time with family and friends on this day.
Victory Day (Dita e Fitores) – May 9th
Victory Day commemorates the end of World War II in Europe and the victory of the Allies over Nazi Germany. It is observed in Kosovo with ceremonies, wreath-laying events, and patriotic gatherings to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and peace.
Eid al-Fitr (Bajrami i Madh) – Date varies (based on the Islamic lunar calendar)
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is celebrated with prayers, feasting, and social gatherings. Many Muslims in Kosovo attend communal prayers and share meals with family and friends to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
Eid al-Adha (Bajrami i Vogël) – Date varies (based on the Islamic lunar calendar)
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of animals, and acts of charity. Many Muslims in Kosovo participate in Eid prayers and share the meat of sacrificial animals with those in need.
Independence Day (Dita e Pavarësisë) – February 17th
Independence Day in Kosovo commemorates the declaration of independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008. It is one of the most important national holidays in Kosovo, celebrated with flag-raising ceremonies, parades, concerts, and cultural events. Independence Day is a time for Kosovo citizens to reflect on their nation’s sovereignty and progress since declaring independence.
Table of Public Holidays and Days Off
| Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Orthodox Christmas Day | January 7 | 1 | Serbian Orthodox |
| International Women’s Day | March 8 | 1 | All |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 | All |
| Victory Day | May 9 | 1 | All |
| Eid al-Fitr | Date varies | 1-2 | Muslims |
| Eid al-Adha | Date varies | 1-2 | Muslims |
| Independence Day | February 17 | 1 | All |