Spanish holiday guide
St Stephen's Day
St Stephen’s Day (San Esteban / Sant Esteve) on 26 December honours the first Christian martyr and is a public holiday in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.
What it means
Christians remember St Stephen’s martyrdom; in Catalan culture it is also the traditional second day of Christmas family rest.
Origin and history
Fixed feast on 26 December in the Latin calendar; retained as a regional labour holiday in Catalan-speaking territories.
How it is observed in Spain
Closures in Catalonia and the Balearics; family meals; Aran uses a different feast date in 2026.
Interesting facts
- Not a nationwide Spanish holiday.
- A 2026 note in the BOE (Spain’s official state gazette) records a substitution in Aran.
- Distinct from Boxing Day branding.
Public calendar
Check the 2026 dates
Holiday status depends on place. See the official calendar pages for the locations covered by this guide.