Crowds gather at Singapore’s iconic Merlion Park, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Photo by Unsplash
Singaporeans can look forward to six long weekends in 2026, the most in years and a welcome chance for more rest and travel.
The official list of public holidays, released by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on June 16, said the year will include 11 public holidays and a record number of extended weekends, The Straits Times reported.
The first long weekend of the year arrives in April, with Good Friday falling on April 3. Labor Day on May 1 and Christmas Day on Dec. 25 both land on a Friday as well, adding two more three-day weekends.
Three other public holidays: Vesak Day on May 31, National Day on Aug. 9 and Deepavali on Nov. 8, fall on Sundays and will be followed by a Monday off in lieu, in line with standard practice, CNA reported.
The full list of public holidays includes New Year’s Day on Thursday, Jan. 1. The Lunar New Year in 2026 falls on Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 17 and 18. Hari Raya Puasa will be observed on Saturday, March 21, while Hari Raya Haji falls on Wednesday, May 27.
With six long weekends on the calendar, 2026 outpaces both 2025 and 2024, which offered four and five long weekends respectively. The increase is expected to fuel local travel, boost tourism and provide more quality time for families and personal pursuits.
MOM also reminded employers that under the Employment Act, all employees are entitled to paid public holidays. Those who are required to work on these days must be compensated with an additional day’s basic salary or given time off in lieu, based on a mutually agreed arrangement.
These entitlements apply to all employees, including managers and executives, as well as those earning above S$4,500 (US$3,512) per month.
