Brazil’s next national holiday is Republic Day on November 15, but it falls on a Sunday. For people who do not usually work that day, it will not provide an additional day off. The date follows the November 2 All Souls’ Day holiday.
Two other national holidays are scheduled before the end of 2026. Black Awareness Day, also known as Zumbi and Black Awareness Day, falls on Friday, November 20, while Christmas is on Friday, December 25. Both dates are adjacent to the weekend.
The calendar also sets optional leave for federal public administration employees after 2 p.m. on December 24 and December 31. These arrangements do not require private companies to release their employees.
Local holidays may provide additional days off, depending on state and municipal rules. November dates listed include Vitória da Conquista’s anniversary on November 9, the Treaty of Petrópolis commemoration in Acre on November 17, and the feast day of Natal’s patron saint on November 21. November 30 is Evangelical Day in both Alagoas and the Federal District.
Whether businesses open on holidays depends on the type of activity and the rules applicable to each sector. Essential services may continue operating, while retail operations are subject to relevant legislation and collective agreements.
Under Brazil’s CLT labor code, employees who work on a holiday must receive compensatory time off or double pay, in line with the applicable rules. For workers on a 12-hours-on, 36-hours-off schedule, holiday work is considered compensated through their monthly pay. Conditions for self-employed workers and service providers hired as legal entities depend on their contracts.
Sources: Folha Mercado.