There’s plenty to look forward to in 2025 with Singapore’s national public holiday calendar! This informative guide helps you plan your year by listing all official public holidays, ensuring you don’t miss a day of relaxation or celebration. You’ll find key dates like New Year’s Day and Deepavali, along with helpful details about employee rights and entitlements. So, settle in and explore the holiday highlights that could add excitement to your 2025!
Key Takeaways:
- Public Holidays Schedule: The 2025 public holiday calendar in Singapore includes significant dates like New Year’s Day on January 1, Chinese New Year on January 29 and 30, and Christmas Day on December 25.
- Paid Holidays: Employees covered by the Employment Act are entitled to 11 paid public holidays throughout the year.
- Substitution Agreement: Employers and employees can mutually agree to substitute a public holiday with another working day, offering flexibility in work schedules.
- Additional Compensation: Employees required to work on a public holiday are entitled to an extra day’s salary in addition to their gross pay for that day, emphasising fair compensation.
- Time-Off-In-Lieu: Employers can offer time-off-in-lieu for certain employees who work on public holidays, as long as both parties agree on the hours to be compensated.
Overview of Public Holidays in Singapore
Your experience in Singapore is truly enriched by the vibrant tapestry of public holidays celebrated throughout the year. These days not only provide you with the opportunity to relax and spend time with family and friends, but they also serve as moments to come together as a community, celebrating the rich cultural diversity that Singapore has to offer. From the festivities surrounding Chinese New Year to the solemnity of Hari Raya Haji, each public holiday holds unique significance and traditions that contribute to the colourful fabric of life in Singapore.
Importance of Public Holidays
After a busy week or month, having designated public holidays gives you a well-deserved break from your daily routine. It helps you recharge, pursue personal interests, and spend quality time with loved ones. These holidays often encourage participation in various cultural festivities and community events, allowing you to immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich heritage and strengthen bonds within the community.
Moreover, public holidays play an integral role in promoting a work-life balance. By having days off, you can prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing. Celebrating these holidays also fosters unity and understanding among Singapore’s diverse population, as different cultures come together to share in each other’s traditions and celebrations.
How Public Holidays are Determined
Any discussions about public holidays in Singapore often lead to questions about how these dates are established. Various factors come into play, with guidance from local regulations, community traditions, and religious observances. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore works to ensure that the public holiday calendar is reflective of the nation’s cultural mosaic, while also considering the historical significance of certain dates in Singapore’s journey as a nation.
Holidays are typically proclaimed based on specific laws and guidelines, ensuring that they are inclusive of all the diverse communities in Singapore. These considerations help to create a national calendar that resonates with the values and traditions of its citizens, allowing you to enjoy and fully participate in the celebrations of each festive occasion. It’s crucial to monitor any updates or modifications to the holiday calendar as you plan ahead to fully enjoy these special days.
Public Holiday Calendar for 2025
Now is the time to start planning your holidays for 2025 in Singapore. With a diverse range of public holidays, there’s plenty of opportunity for you to unwind, enjoy special festivities, and spend quality time with your loved ones. Below, you’ll find an overview of the public holidays that you can look forward to throughout the year.
New Year’s Day: 1 Jan 2025
One of the most anticipated holidays to kick off the new year is New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st. This day not only marks the beginning of a new year but also serves as a moment to reflect on the past year and set goals for the year ahead. Many people in Singapore enjoy a day off from work, hosting gatherings, sharing meals, and indulging in welcoming festivities.
As you embrace the fresh start in 2025, consider participating in various celebrations happening around the city. Events may include fireworks, concerts, and community gatherings, making it a perfect opportunity for you to celebrate with friends and family.
Chinese New Year Celebration: 29 & 30 Jan 2025
Behind the excitement of the Chinese New Year, which falls on January 29th and 30th, lies a tradition filled with rich culture and family reunions. This festive occasion is celebrated with vibrant decorations, traditional foods, and the exchange of red packets. You’ll find that many families come together to honour their ancestors, enjoy lavish feasts, and partake in various cultural activities like lion dances and parades.
Another highlight of the Chinese New Year celebration is the festive atmosphere that permeates the streets, especially in areas like Chinatown. You can immerse yourself in the lively spirit of the holiday by attending the bustling night markets, filled with delicious food stalls and unique crafts.
Hari Raya Puasa, 31 Mar 2025
The celebration of Hari Raya Puasa on March 31st marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting observed by the Muslim community. This public holiday is a time for joyous festivities as you join others in celebrating with family and friends. It is common for many to dress in ceremonial attire, share traditional dishes, and visit the homes of relatives and friends to exchange greetings and blessings.
This day embodies the spirit of forgiveness and gratitude, so you may find that many participate in communal prayers and charitable acts, reinforcing the bonds of community and friendship.
Good Friday, 18 Apr 2025
Above all, Good Friday, observed on April 18th, is an important day in the Christian calendar commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. For many, this day serves as a moment of reflection, prayer, and remembrance. You may have the opportunity to attend church services or participate in community events that highlight the significance of the day.
Many people choose to spend Good Friday in quiet reflection or with family due to its solemn nature, creating a meaningful pause in the busyness of everyday life.
Labour Day: 1 May 2025
Public holidays like Labour Day hold much significance in terms of recognising the contributions of workers. On May 1st, you have the chance to celebrate the achievements of the labour movement and consider the value of hard work in your community. Many events and parades may take place across the island to honour workers, and it’s a perfect opportunity for you to express gratitude for the efforts of those around you.
But it’s also a day for you to relax and enjoy well-deserved time off from work. Consider planning a fun outing or a special activity with your loved ones to celebrate this occasion together.
Vesak Day: 12 May 2025
By the time Vesak Day arrives on May 12th, you’ll find an opportunity to honour the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. This meaningful occasion is marked by various religious activities in Buddhist temples, including prayers, offerings, and meditation. It’s a time for self-reflection and contemplation for many who participate.
With the peaceful nature of Vesak Day, you may choose to immerse yourself in the serenity of temple rituals or engage in acts of kindness and compassion, embodying the essence of what this day symbolises.
Hari Raya Haji, 7 Jun 2025
Among the significant occasions, Hari Raya Haji, occurring on June 7th, also known as Eid al-Adha, holds deep continuity. This holiday commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. In Singapore, this day is uniquely celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and the sharing of meals—particularly the festive meat distribution among the community.
Also, this holiday provides an opportunity for you to explore and appreciate the cultural diversity that defines Singapore, as families distribute portions of their sacrifices to those in need, reinforcing a spirit of compassion and generosity.
National Day: 9 Aug 2025
At the heart of Singapore’s pride, National Day on August 9th celebrates the nation’s independence. It’s a day filled with various festivities, including the iconic National Day Parade, colourful fireworks, and community events that foster national pride. As Singaporeans, you’ll likely partake in wearing red and white, the national colours, to show your patriotism.
Despite the passing of Vesak, the spirit of unity endures as you commemorate the advancements and accomplishments of Singapore over the years. This is a day to reflect on a shared identity and community spirit.
Deepavali, 20 Oct 2025
Unlike many other public holidays, Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, shines with vibrant colours and joyous celebrations. This special day will be observed on 20 October 2025, when you can partake in various festive activities that bring together family, friends, and community. You may find yourself enjoying delicious traditional snacks, lighting oil lamps, and admiring beautiful rangoli designs, all while embracing the spirit of togetherness. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage that this festival celebrates.
Get ready to indulge in the warmth of Deepavali as you visit temples or enjoy festive gatherings. It’s a time when your home is filled with laughter and festivities, and everyone is eager to share in the joy. If you’re contemplating where to celebrate, be sure to explore the various events and fairs around Singapore, showcasing the vibrant Indian culture. So gear up for a memorable day and make the most of the celebratory spirit that Deepavali brings!
Christmas Day: 25 Dec 2025
Among the cherished holidays, Christmas stands out as one that evokes feelings of joy and giving. On 25 December 2025, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the festive ambiance of beautifully decorated streets and bustling shopping centres. It’s the perfect time to gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and share delicious meals that reflect the warmth of the season. Whether you are attending Christmas parties, participating in community events, or simply enjoying the enchanting decorations, you are sure to feel the magical spirit of Christmas in the air.
This day offers a chance for you to create lasting memories with your family and friends. Don’t forget to explore the various Christmas markets and light displays throughout Singapore, where you can delight in festive treats and unique gifts. Embrace the holiday mood and take the opportunity to spread kindness and cheer to those around you—it’s a heartwarming way to celebrate the season!
Employee Rights on Public Holidays
For anyone employed in Singapore, understanding your rights on public holidays is important for ensuring a fair work-life balance. The Employment Act outlines specific entitlements you have regarding paid public holidays, along with options for substituting your holiday if necessary.
Entitlement to Paid Public Holidays
At the core of your employee rights is the entitlement to 11 paid public holidays each year. These paid holidays are the perfect opportunity for you to enjoy time off with friends and family or simply to relax and recharge. If any public holiday falls on a day you are not scheduled to work, such as a rest day or day off, you should still receive the holiday pay.
Additionally, it’s important to know that if you are required to work on any of these public holidays, you will be entitled to extra compensation. This means you receive an additional day’s salary at your basic rate, on top of your gross payment for that day. Taking a moment to clarify these points with your employer can save you from confusion down the line.
Substituting Public Holidays
Holidays can sometimes clash with other significant events in your life, such as family commitments or personal obligations. If this happens, you and your employer have the option to mutually agree on substituting a public holiday for another day. This flexibility allows you to enjoy your time off without sacrificing important personal engagements.
Another important aspect to consider when it comes to substituting public holidays is that not all employers might respond the same way. If you foresee a conflict, it’s a good idea to bring it up with your employer as soon as possible, so you can reach a satisfactory agreement that works for both parties.
Working on Public Holidays
Understanding your rights is crucial if you find yourself working on a public holiday. As noted earlier, employees are entitled to an additional day’s salary on top of their regular pay. This is meant to compensate for the inconvenience of working when others are enjoying time off.
A lot of employers may also offer you time off-in-lieu as an option for working on a public holiday. This arrangement allows you to take additional leave based on mutually agreed hours worked. It’s an excellent opportunity for you to enjoy some extra time off, so be sure to discuss this with your employer if you find yourself in this situation.
Additional Considerations for Employers
Keep in mind that, as an employer, it is vital to stay informed about the public holiday guidelines in Singapore. Understanding your obligations can help you foster a positive work environment. It’s important to handle holiday pay and time off requests in a manner that both complies with the law and respects your employees’ needs.
Extra Salary Entitlements
For employees required to work on a public holiday, it’s important to know that they are entitled to extra salary entitlements. This includes receiving an additional day’s pay at their basic rate on top of their normal salary for that day. This not only serves as fair compensation but also encourages a sense of belonging and appreciation among your team.
For those employees who are not working on the public holiday but are still expecting their regular salary, they will still be entitled to it without any deductions. This assurance helps maintain motivation and work morale, ensuring consistency in productivity even around holiday periods.
Options for Time-Off-in-Lieu
The option for time off-in-lieu provides flexibility for both you and your employees. If a public holiday falls on a day they are scheduled to work, you can agree to compensate them with time off at a later date. This arrangement can help manage workload effectively while ensuring your employees feel valued.
TimeOffinLieu allows you to maintain a balance between meeting business needs and respecting your employees’ time. Make sure to communicate openly with your team about how this system works, and set up clear procedures for requesting and scheduling this time off. You’ll find that when employees feel they have choices, it can lead to increased job satisfaction and loyalty.
Guidelines for Different Employee Categories
Categories of employees are another aspect you should consider when dealing with public holidays. Employees’ entitlements may vary depending on their role and salary bracket. For instance, workmen with earnings exceeding $4,500, non-workmen earning more than $2,600, and managers or executives have unique considerations that you need to discuss and plan accordingly.
But knowing these differences can help you create policies that best suit the needs of your workforce. You’ll want to take the time to assess how public holiday entitlements apply to each group within your organisation. Clear guidelines and open discussions can ensure everyone is in agreement, fostering an environment of trust and transparency.
School Holidays in Singapore
Not only are public holidays a reason to celebrate, but school holidays are also a perfect opportunity for you and your family to unwind and enjoy quality time together. In 2025, the Ministry of Education (MOE) will announce the official school holiday schedule, which usually includes a mix of term breaks, public holidays, and a long school vacation at the end of the year. Being aware of the school holiday dates will help you plan family trips, outings, or fun activities that everyone will cherish.
Overview of School Holiday Schedule
By understanding the specific dates for school holidays, you can make informed decisions about vacations and leisure time. Typically, there are four main school holiday breaks throughout the year, starting with a shorter break in March, followed by a longer one in June, another break in September, and the significant year-end holiday period. Each of these holidays provides ample opportunity for you to engage in exciting family adventures or simply relax at home.
Importance of Planning Around School Holidays
Between the flurry of activities during the school year, school holidays give you the chance to reconnect with your children and indulge in some fun-filled experiences. It’s worth considering how your plans can differ from typical routines or busy schedules, as everyone deserves a break from the everyday hustle. Having a little foresight allows you to advantage of lower travel rates, book popular attractions before they get crowded, or simply spend quality time doing what you love.
Even if you’re not planning a grand vacation, these school holidays are perfect for local explorations, picnics in the park, or trying out new hobbies as a family. With a bit of planning, you can transform these holidays into memorable experiences that your children will cherish for years to come. So be sure to mark these dates on your calendar and get ready for enjoyable family adventures!
Tips for Planning Around Public Holidays
After you’ve reviewed the public holiday list for 2025, it’s time to start planning around those dates. With a little foresight, you can make the most of these breaks. Here are some tips to help you maximise your holiday experience:
- Be proactive about making travel plans early.
- Coordinate family gatherings well in advance.
- Schedule leisure activities to avoid last-minute rush.
The key to enjoying your holidays without the stress of disorganisation lies in planning ahead. By strategising your time, you can create memorable experiences with family and friends.
Making Travel Arrangements
After deciding on some potential getaways, take a moment to look at the travel options available during public holidays. These dates often see a spike in demand, so book your flights and accommodations early to secure the best deals and ensure availability. Additionally, be aware of any potential travel restrictions or requirements.
Furthermore, consider flexible travel dates around public holidays to take advantage of lower prices. If you can shift your trip slightly before or after the holiday rush, you might save significantly on airfare and accommodation. Don’t forget to check popular travel websites and sign up for fare alerts to catch the best prices.
Planning Family Gatherings
Planning family gatherings can be delightful but requires a bit of foresight, especially during public holidays. Be sure to coordinate with family members in advance to avoid conflicts with other plans or travel arrangements. Choose a date and location that work best for everyone to enhance participation and enjoyment.
The earlier you begin discussions about family gatherings, the smoother the planning process will be. This way, you ensure everyone is informed of the plan, and you can create an enjoyable experience for all while making special memories together.
Scheduling Leisure Activities
Before the holiday season arrives, think ahead about how you and your loved ones want to spend your free time. You could explore local attractions, catch up on hobbies, or even try new activities together. Planning excursions and leisure activities in advance can help avoid crowds and make the most of your time off.
Therefore, planning ahead for events and activities will prevent last-minute rushing. You might uncover hidden gems and local favourites that make your holidays even richer and full of joy.
Summing up
As you plan ahead for the public holidays in Singapore for 2025, you have a fantastic opportunity to schedule both work and leisure to maximise your enjoyment during these festive periods. With the national calendar highlighting significant dates such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, National Day, and Christmas, you can eagerly anticipate celebrations and relaxing time off with family and friends. It’s a great time to engage in cultural festivities and enjoy well-deserved breaks.
Don’t forget to note your rights regarding paid public holidays as an employee. By understanding your entitlements, including the potential for extra pay on public holidays and the option of time off-in-lieu, you can navigate your work-life balance with ease. By being informed, you can ensure a fulfilling holiday experience while maintaining a productive work schedule. So go ahead, mark your calendar, and get ready to enjoy all that 2025 has to offer!
FAQ
Q: What are the public holidays in Singapore for 2025?
A: In 2025, the public holidays in Singapore are as follows: 1. New Year’s Day: January 1 (Wednesday) 2. Chinese New Year: January 29 (Wednesday) and January 30 (Thursday) 3. Hari Raya Puasa, March 31 (Monday) 4. Good Friday: April 18 (Friday) 5. Labour Day: May 1 (Thursday) 6. Vesak Day: May 12 (Monday) 7. Hari Raya Haji, June 7 (Saturday) 8. National Day: August 9 (Saturday) 9. Deepavali: October 20 (Monday) 10. Christmas Day: December 25 (Thursday) Please note that these dates may be modified as official changes are announced.
Q: Are employees entitled to paid public holidays?
A: Yes, employees covered by the Employment Act in Singapore are entitled to 11 paid public holidays in a calendar year. This includes all the public holidays listed above. Employers and employees may agree to substitute a public holiday for another working day if deemed necessary.
Q: What happens if an employee has to work on a public holiday?
If an employee is required to work on a public holiday, they are entitled to receive an extra day’s salary at their basic rate of pay, in addition to their gross rate of pay for that day. This ensures that employees are compensated fairly for working during public holidays.
Q: Can employers offer time off in lieu of working on public holidays?
A: Yes, employers have the option to grant time off in lieu for employees who work on a public holiday. This is based on a mutually agreed number of hours and is applicable for specific groups of employees: workmen earning more than $4,500 a month, non-workmen earning more than $2,600 a month, and all managers and executives.
Q: How can I keep track of changes to public holidays in Singapore for 2025?
A: To keep updated on any changes to the public holidays in Singapore for 2025, it is recommended to regularly check official government announcements or the Ministry of Manpower’s website. Official changes will be communicated through reliable channels to ensure that all parties are informed.
