Greece Public Holidays 2017

This page contains a national calendar of all 2017 public holidays. These dates may be modified as official changes are announced, so please check back regularly for updates.

National holidays, also known as mandatory holidays are celebrated nationwide. In addition to designated National holidays, various public holidays are observed in local communities or municipalities.

Greek law mandates that every Sunday throughout the year is designated as a public holiday. As a deeply religious country, Greek employees are allowed to observe many Catholic and Orthodox holidays. Many Greek municipalities observe what is known as “Name Day” or “Liberation Day” in honor of a region’s designated patron saint. Greek employees are entitled to observe many Catholic and Orthodox religious holidays. Although not officially designated as National holidays, most employees are allowed time off for these observances.

Greece also allows employees time off for celebrations of the changing seasons including March Equinox, June Solstice, September Equinox and December Solstice. Although not recognised by all employers, most employees are granted request for leave with pay for these observances.

According to Greece’s Minister of Employment, if an employee is required to work on a public holiday, including a Sunday, compensation is usually based on regular salary plus 75 percent. Managerial and essential professional employees on an established salary are typically exempt from overtime compensation if they are required to work on a Sunday or mandatory holiday. This is subject to provisions of the employment contract and the discretion of the employer.