Christmas Day in Bolivia
Christmas Day, or Navidad, falls on December 25 and is a national public holiday in Bolivia. The law provides for suspension of public and private activities, while local celebrations include religious observances, music and shared festive foods.[1][2]
A national holiday under Bolivian law
Bolivia’s Supreme Decree No. 2750 lists December 25 (Navidad) among national holidays with suspension of public and private activities. The decree’s general rule moves a holiday that falls on Sunday to the following Monday, except for four holidays it names; Christmas is not among those exceptions.[1]
For a particular service or business, check its holiday schedule before making plans.
Religious observance and Christmas in Villa Serrano
Bolivian officials describe Christmas in Villa Serrano, in Chuquisaca, as a celebration of the child Jesus. The town’s Christmas festivities feature the chuntunqui and kájchito dances, and the local celebration has been declared Bolivia’s oral and intangible heritage.[2]
The same account identifies picana, buñuelos and hot chocolate as festive foods associated with Villa Serrano. These details describe a particular local celebration, rather than a single menu or custom followed everywhere in Bolivia.[2]
Planning for the holiday
Because the national rule suspends public and private activities, visitors should arrange essential errands ahead of December 25 and confirm opening hours directly with the service they need. The legal decree does not specify transport timetables or which individual businesses may open, so check with carriers and businesses for local arrangements.[1]
People interested in Christmas celebrations can look for local announcements. For example, the Bolivian Chamber of Deputies has highlighted Villa Serrano’s dances and food traditions.[2]
Frequently asked questions
Is Christmas Day a public holiday in Bolivia?
Yes. The national decree lists December 25 as a holiday with suspension of public and private activities.[1]
When is Christmas Day observed?
It is observed on December 25. Under the decree’s general rule, a national holiday falling on Sunday moves to the following Monday; Christmas is not one of the listed exceptions.[1]
What is Christmas like in Villa Serrano?
A Bolivian Chamber of Deputies report describes chuntunqui and kájchito dances, picana, buñuelos and hot chocolate as part of the town’s Christmas festivities.[2]
Will shops and transport be open?
The decree provides for suspension of public and private activities. Confirm arrangements with the business or carrier you plan to use.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Christmas Day in Bolivia:
- DECRETO SUPREMO N° 2750, DE 1 DE MAYO DE 2016- Gaceta Oficial del Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia
- Bancada de Chuquisaca invita a pasar las fiestas navideñas en Villa Serrano- Cámara de Diputados