Reformation day in Germany. Holidays in Germany. In October, Germans can enjoy two long weekends each year, thanks to important holidays. The first is German Unity Day on October 3rd, which celebrates the unification of Germany and is observed nationwide. The second is Reformation Day on October 31st. In many states, it’s a public holiday and a day off from work.
What Do Germans Actually Celebrate on Reformation Day, October 31st?
Reformation Day is a significant holiday for Protestants worldwide, not just in Germany. Celebrated every year on October 31st, it marks the event in 1517 when Martin Luther, an Augustinian monk and professor, posted his 95 theses on the door of the castle church in Wittenberg. This act challenged the Catholic Church’s practice of selling indulgences and sparked the Protestant Reformation. Unlike the Lutheran-specific holiday of the Augsburg Confession, Reformation Day is observed by various Protestant and Evangelical churches, making it a broader religious celebration.
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Reformation Day in Germany: A Public Holiday in 9 States
Reformation Day, celebrated on October 31, is a public holiday in nine German states:
- Brandenburg
- Bremen
- Hamburg
- Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
- Lower Saxony
- Saxony
- Saxony-Anhalt
- Schleswig-Holstein
- Thuringia
In states with a Catholic majority like Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saarland, October 31 is a regular working day. However, these states observe a public holiday the following day, November 1, for All Saints’ Day, which is a day off.
October 31st in Germany: How is Reformation Day Celebrated?
Reformation Day is celebrated in a special way in two key cities connected to Martin Luther: Wittenberg, known as the “Rome of Protestantism,” and Eisleben, where he was born. On this day, thousands of believers from around the world gather to attend services and visit important sites linked to Luther’s life. These include the house where he was born, his home during the Reformation, the home of his friend and collaborator Melanchthon, the Stadtkirche (city church), his death house on Andreaskirchplatz, and the famous Castle Church in Wittenberg, where he posted his 95 theses.
Reformation Day in Germany has religious, cultural, and historical importance. It is marked by festivities, church services, lectures, and exhibitions in many places.