As another year approaches, many Singaporeans are looking ahead and mapping out how best to use their annual leave. Planning early allows for smoother travel arrangements, better accommodation deals, and a clearer balance between work and rest. With a multicultural public holiday calendar offering several opportunities for breaks throughout 2025, now is the perfect time to organise your calendar and make the most of the year.
A Rich Calendar of Public Celebrations
Singapore will observe 11 official public holidays in 2025, reflecting the nation’s diverse cultural and religious fabric. These holidays are scattered throughout the year, offering valuable chances to rest, celebrate, or explore. The year begins with New Year’s Day on Wednesday, 1 January. Chinese New Year follows on Wednesday and Thursday, 29–30 January. Other key dates include Good Friday on 18 April, Hari Raya Puasa on 31 March, and Vesak Day on 19 May. National Day falls on a Saturday this year, 9 August, while Deepavali lands on Monday, 20 October. Christmas rounds off the year on Thursday, 25 December. It’s important to note that some Islamic and Hindu holidays may shift depending on lunar calendars and moon sightings.
Five Pre-Made Long Weekends to Enjoy
Not all holidays are created equal when it comes to long breaks. Fortunately, 2025 features several public holidays that fall conveniently on Mondays or Fridays. These naturally occurring long weekends include Hari Raya Puasa on Monday, 31 March, Good Friday on Friday, 18 April, Vesak Day on Monday, 19 May, Hari Raya Haji on Friday, 6 June, and Deepavali on Monday, 20 October. These long weekends offer perfect mini-breaks that don’t require you to touch your annual leave.
Simple Leave Extensions Can Create Big Breaks
Some of the holidays in 2025 land midweek, but a little strategic leave can extend them into more substantial breaks. Chinese New Year, for example, falls on a Wednesday and Thursday. By taking leave on Friday, 31 January, you can enjoy a five-day holiday that runs through the weekend. Similarly, Labour Day is on Thursday, 1 May. Taking leave on Friday, 2 May will result in another four-day escape. A final opportunity lies in December—by taking leave on Friday, 26 December after Christmas Day, you gain yet another extended break for end-of-year relaxation or travel.
Turning Three Days of Leave into Nearly Two Weeks Off
If you plan carefully, you can use just three leave days to secure an extra 13 days off when combined with public holidays and weekends. This kind of smart planning not only conserves your leave balance but also ensures you enjoy regular intervals of rest across the year. Such breaks are essential for mental wellness and productivity, allowing you to reset without being away from work for extended periods.
Ideal Time to Book and Beat the Rush
Organising your leave early not only guarantees time off but also gives you access to better travel deals. Airline tickets and hotel prices often rise closer to peak seasons. By securing your plans early, you’re more likely to find affordable options for international travel or luxurious local stays. Even if you’re not leaving the country, long weekends are great for exploring hidden gems in Singapore or trying new experiences, whether that’s a wellness retreat or a culinary tour.
Flexible Options for Any Lifestyle
Whether you’re the adventurous type who craves overseas exploration or someone who enjoys quiet time at home, these extended weekends can be tailored to suit your preferences. Families can plan school-holiday getaways, couples can escape for romantic retreats, and solo travelers can indulge in personal development or rest. Even those staying in Singapore can use these holidays to explore neighbourhood attractions, visit local museums, or unwind at a nearby beach.
Make 2025 the Year of Intentional Time Off
Singapore’s 2025 public holiday calendar is packed with potential, but only those who plan ahead will truly benefit. With a little foresight, a few well-placed leave days can transform your year from one of routine into one filled with moments of joy, rest, and discovery. Begin scheduling now so your 2025 becomes not just productive, but truly fulfilling.
