Anniversary of the Passing to Immortality of General José de San Martín in Argentina

A national day of remembrance

Argentina’s 1938 Law 12,387 declared August 17 a national holiday in memory of San Martín. Today, Law 27,399 lists it among the movable national holidays and names it Paso a la Inmortalidad del General Don José de San Martín. The national designation makes this a countrywide commemoration, rather than a holiday specific to one province.[1][2]

The observance recalls San Martín’s contribution to Argentina’s independence and his wider campaigns in South America. An Argentine government account describes him as a central figure in the independence movements of Argentina, Chile and Peru, and notes that his crossing of the Andes in 1817 formed part of that struggle. The holiday’s name honours his death while connecting his legacy to the formation of Argentine national identity.[4]

How the date is set

The anniversary is August 17. Under Article 6 of Law 27,399, a movable holiday falling on Tuesday or Wednesday shifts to the preceding Monday; one falling on Thursday or Friday shifts to the following Monday. A 2025 decree added that when a movable national holiday falls on Saturday or Sunday, authorities may shift it to the following Monday or the preceding Friday. The government determines which option applies.[1][3]

Because the observance can move, check Argentina’s official holiday calendar for the date in the year you plan to travel. The holiday remains tied to August 17 even when the nationwide day off is observed on another date.[1][3]

Work and practical arrangements

For workers covered by Argentina’s Labour Contract Law, national holidays follow the legal rules for Sunday rest. If an employee works on a national holiday, the law provides for normal pay plus an equal additional amount. The law has exceptions and separate regimes, including for public administration employees unless they are expressly brought within its scope, so individual arrangements may vary.[5]

Banks observe the holiday according to the Central Bank’s annually updated bank-holiday list. The BCRA says electronic wallets, ATMs, online and mobile banking, and card payments remain available on bank holidays. Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go.[6]

Commemorations

An Argentine Army tribute describes San Martín’s military leadership, the Army of the Andes, and the campaigns in Chile and Peru. It also reports that the Army honours his legacy. Local events can vary, so consult local authorities for announcements.[4]