Greece's Major Holidays: What Crete Visitors Should Know

Saturday, 13 June 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Greece observes several public holidays throughout the year, and the Holy Spirit long weekend (Pentecost Monday) has just passed. For visitors planning trips to Crete in the coming months, the key dates to note are August 15 (Assumption of the Virgin Mary), one of the most widely observed holidays in Greece, October 28 (Ohi Day), and December 25 and 26 for Christmas. On these dates, many shops, banks, and government offices close, and popular sites may have reduced hours or higher visitor numbers. August 15 is particularly significant in Crete, with religious processions and festivities held across the island. Tourists should book restaurants and transportation in advance around these dates, as locals travel heavily and availability can be limited.