May is one of the best public holiday seasons, and it’s only set to get better for Berliners in 2025! May 8 will be a one-off day off in the capital next year.

Berliners, take note of May 8!

Berliners have even more of an opportunity to relax in early May next year. In 2025, the city-state will recognise May 8 as a one-off public holiday (Feiertag) to mark 80 years since the end of Nazi rule in Germany, also known as Tag der Befreiung (Liberation Day).

Events commemorating Germany’s capitulation to the Allies will be held in Berlin throughout the day. In its announcement, the city said the holiday intended to raise awareness that “peaceful coexistence is still not a matter of course”. 

How to make the most of your May 8 Feiertag

May 8, 2025, is a Thursday, so it is prime territory for taking a Friday Brückentag (bridge day) on May 9 for a four-day weekend. Alternatively, combine it with the May 1 holiday and take off five holiday days (May 2, 5, 6, 7 and 9) for an 11-day break between May 1 and 11.

Berliners can also look forward to another extra public holiday on June 17, 2028, which will recognise 75 years since the 1953 uprising against the East German government.

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