Public Holiday vs. National Holiday — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 11, 2023
A Public Holiday is a holiday observed in a specific region or locality, while a National Holiday is a holiday celebrated by an entire nation.
Difference Between Public Holiday and National Holiday
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A Public Holiday pertains to holidays that are designated by local, state, or regional authorities, and they may not be observed universally across a country. In contrast, a National Holiday is sanctioned by a country's federal or central government and is universally celebrated across the nation.
The significance behind a Public Holiday can be varied: it might commemorate a local event, historical figure, or regional tradition. On the other hand, a National Holiday typically commemorates an event or individual of national significance, such as a country's independence day.
It's possible for a Public Holiday to only be acknowledged in a specific area or by certain groups, meaning businesses might operate as usual in other parts of the country. In the case of a National Holiday, most businesses and institutions across the country are likely to be closed or have altered operating hours.
The observance of a Public Holiday might vary from one part of the country to another, based on regional preferences or historical events. However, a National Holiday has a standardized manner of observance across the entire country.
While both Public Holidays and National Holidays serve the purpose of acknowledging important dates and events, Public Holidays cater to a more localized audience, whereas National Holidays unite a nation in shared celebration or remembrance.
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Comparison Chart
Scope
Local, state, or regional.
Nationwide.
Sanctioning Authority
Local or regional authorities.
Federal or central government.
Universality
Might be limited to specific areas or groups.
Celebrated by the entire nation.
Typical Significance
Local events, figures, or traditions.
Events or figures of national import.
Business Impact
Varies regionally.
Widespread national closures.
Compare with Definitions
Public Holiday
A day off recognized in specific areas.
The city celebrates its foundation as a Public Holiday.
National Holiday
A nationwide break sanctioned by the central government.
Labor Day is a National Holiday celebrated by workers across the country.
Public Holiday
A non-working day specific to a region or group.
Due to the local parade, there's a Public Holiday in the downtown area.
National Holiday
A day when the whole nation commemorates an event.
The signing of the constitution is a revered National Holiday.
Public Holiday
A holiday determined by regional authorities.
The state declared a Public Holiday for the centennial celebration.
National Holiday
A day uniting a country in shared observance.
The National Holiday brings citizens together in pride and unity.
Public Holiday
A day commemorating local events or traditions.
The regional harvest festival is a much-awaited Public Holiday.
National Holiday
A day of nationwide celebration or remembrance.
Independence Day is a significant National Holiday.
Public Holiday
A localized break from work or school.
The coastal region observes a unique Public Holiday for their annual festival.
National Holiday
A holiday observed across an entire country.
The president's birthday is marked as a National Holiday.
Common Curiosities
What is a Public Holiday?
A Public Holiday is a holiday recognized in specific regions or localities.
Who determines a Public Holiday?
Public Holidays are usually determined by local or regional authorities.
How does a National Holiday differ from a Public Holiday?
A National Holiday is observed nationwide, while a Public Holiday may be local or regional.
Is the observance of a National Holiday mandatory across a country?
Typically, a National Holiday is universally recognized across a country, but the manner of observance may vary.
How many National Holidays does a country typically have?
The number of National Holidays varies by country and is determined by its history, culture, and significant events.
Is a country's Independence Day always a National Holiday?
Typically, yes. A country's Independence Day is often celebrated as a significant National Holiday.
Can a Public Holiday be unique to just one city or state?
Yes, a Public Holiday can be specific to a city, state, or region.
Are businesses closed on a National Holiday?
Most businesses and institutions are likely closed or have reduced hours on a National Holiday.
Can a Public Holiday become a National Holiday?
If a Public Holiday gains national significance, it could potentially be recognized as a National Holiday.
Are schools closed on Public Holidays?
Schools in the specific region observing the Public Holiday are generally closed, but it varies based on the significance and location.
Do all countries have the same National Holidays?
No, National Holidays are specific to each country's history, culture, and significant events.
Can a region ignore a National Holiday?
While regions might have varying observance traditions, they generally acknowledge National Holidays.
Are Public Holidays paid days off?
It varies by region and employer, but many times Public Holidays are paid days off.
Can a new National Holiday be created?
Yes, if an event of national significance occurs, a government can declare a new National Holiday.
Are National Holidays the same as federal holidays?
In many contexts, especially in the U.S., the terms are used interchangeably, but "federal" might specifically refer to the central government's jurisdiction.
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Author Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
