Limassol, a vibrant city on the southern coast of Cyprus, observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the rich cultural, religious, and historical tapestry of the region. In 2025, residents and visitors can look forward to several significant dates, each offering a unique glimpse into Cypriot traditions and heritage.
Public Holidays in Limassol for 2025
Below is a comprehensive list of public holidays observed in Limassol for the year 2025:
| Date | Day | Holiday Name | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 January 2025 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Marks the beginning of the new year. |
| 6 January 2025 | Monday | Epiphany | Celebrates the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles; traditionally includes the blessing of waters. |
| 3 March 2025 | Monday | Green Monday (Clean Monday) | Signifies the start of Lent in the Eastern Orthodox Church; families often enjoy outdoor picnics. |
| 25 March 2025 | Tuesday | Greek Independence Day | Commemorates Greece’s declaration of independence from Ottoman rule in 1821. |
| 1 April 2025 | Tuesday | Cyprus National Day (EOKA Day) | Honors the start of the EOKA liberation struggle against British colonial rule in 1955. |
| 18 April 2025 | Friday | Orthodox Good Friday | Observes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ; marked by solemn church services. |
| 20 April 2025 | Sunday | Orthodox Easter Sunday | Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ; families gather for festive meals. |
| 21 April 2025 | Monday | Orthodox Easter Monday | Continues the Easter celebrations with family gatherings and feasts. |
| 1 May 2025 | Thursday | Labour Day (May Day) | International Workers’ Day; recognizes the contributions of workers. |
| 9 June 2025 | Monday | Orthodox Whit Monday (Kataklysmos) | Also known as the Festival of the Flood; unique to Cyprus, it includes various water-related festivities. |
| 15 August 2025 | Friday | Assumption of the Virgin Mary | Honors the Assumption of Mary into heaven; a significant religious observance in Cyprus. |
| 1 October 2025 | Wednesday | Cyprus Independence Day | Celebrates Cyprus gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960; features parades and cultural events. |
| 28 October 2025 | Tuesday | Ochi Day (Greek National Day) | Commemorates Greece’s refusal to allow Axis forces to occupy the country during World War II; marked by military parades and festivities. |
| 25 December 2025 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ; families attend church services and share festive meals. |
| 26 December 2025 | Friday | Boxing Day (Synaxis of the Mother of God) | Traditionally a day for visiting friends and family; also known as the Feast of the Synaxis of the Mother of God. |
Cultural Significance and Traditions
Each public holiday in Limassol is steeped in tradition and cultural significance:
- Epiphany (6 January): Known locally as “Ta Fota,” this day includes the “Blessing of the Waters” ceremony, where a cross is thrown into the sea, and young men dive to retrieve it, symbolizing the baptism of Christ.
- Green Monday (3 March): Marking the beginning of Lent, families engage in outdoor excursions, enjoying vegetarian and vegan dishes, as meat is abstained from during this period.
- Kataklysmos (9 June): Unique to Cyprus, the Festival of the Flood has roots in both religious and pagan traditions. Coastal cities like Limassol host games, folk music, and dances near the waterfront, celebrating both the biblical flood and ancient ceremonies honoring Aphrodite and Adonis.
- Ochi Day (28 October): Translating to “No Day,” it commemorates the bold refusal by Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas to the Axis powers’ demands in 1940. The day is celebrated with parades, speeches, and various cultural events.
Practical Information for Visitors
On these public holidays, many businesses, including shops, banks, and government offices, may be closed or operate on reduced hours. Public transportation might also follow a modified schedule. It’s advisable for visitors to plan accordingly, checking the availability of services and making necessary reservations in advance.
Participating in local festivities offers a rich cultural experience, providing insight into Cypriot traditions and community spirit. Whether witnessing a vibrant parade, savoring traditional Cypriot cuisine, or engaging in local customs, these public holidays present an opportunity to immerse oneself in the heritage of Limassol.
For the most current information on public holidays and related events, visitors are encouraged to consult local tourism boards or official city websites prior to planning their trip.
