Public Holidays in Argentina to get the most of your travel itinerary

Argentinians love their Feriados (bank holiday or public holiday)! Surprisingly a recent study shows that Argentina holds the world record for being the country with the most public holidays a year! This year there are 19 national holidays, on average an extra day-off every month. This is thanks to a recent law, set in place with the intention of boosting internal tourism in Argentina. Well, as a tourist in Buenos Aires, the fact that the locals have a few extra days off might not affect you, however it is important to keep these dates in mind if you’re planning a trip to Buenos Aires. [caption id="attachment_6231" align="alignnone" width="640"] Public Holidays in Argentina 2013 / source[/caption]

Tips for planning a Trip in Argentina during national holidays

- For one, Buenos Aires’ currency exchange places and banks will be closed on these dates. And cash points (or ATMs) may be running low on money, as they don’t get refilled on public holidays. So, make sure you have enough cash to last you the weekend. - Also many restaurants and shops will be closed (although businesses do tend to stay open in the more touristic areas of the city) - As you’ll see below, many public holidays in Argentina are in remembrance of the country’s many political or cultural feats, like Independence Day, Dia de la Bandera etc. Argentineans are hugely passionate about their history and politics and will take to the streets on these days and congregate around Buenos Aires’ landmarks, such as Plaza de Mayo and the Obelisco - which can cause traffic to come to a standstill. So, if you need to be somewhere on time, make sure you leave early! - Over recent years, the city council has organized a variety of free activities in Buenos Aires on public holidays. No doubt, you will come across a free concert along Avenida de Mayo or the Obelisco.  Have a look at the city’s official cultural program, here, for up to date information. (in English) - Another thing to keep in mind is, if you’re planning to book tours and activities in Buenos Aires around these dates, it’s best to book as early as possible. Especially, if you wish to take a tour outside Buenos Aires, like a boat trip to Tigre or to Uruguay, as there are many Argentinians who take advantage of their long weekends. [caption id="attachment_6232" align="alignnone" width="640"] / source[/caption] The list below mentions a calendar with the most important Argentine bank holidays to help you plan your vacation:

JANUARY 

1^st New Year’s Day 31^st Bicentennial of the General Assembly

FEBRUARY

11^th & 12^th Carnival 20^th Bicentennial of the Battle of Salta

MARCH 

24^th Dia de la Memoria (Remembrance Day) 29^th Viernes Santo (Good Friday)

APRIL 

1^st & 2^nd Falklands Memorial Day

MAY

1^st Labour Day 25^th May Revolution

JUNE 

20^th & 21^st Dia de la Bandera (National Flag Day)

JULY 

9^th Argentine Independence Day

AUGUST 

19^th Death of General San Martin

OCTOBER

14^th Dia de la Raza (Cultural Diversity Day)

NOVEMBER

25^th Dia de la Soberania Nacional

DECEMBER

8^th Inmaculada Concepcion 25^th Christmas See here a complete list of Argentine holidays  Visit Argentina4u to see all activities and things to do in Argentina.