All Saints' Day in Slovakia

Meaning and date

In Christian tradition, All Saints’ Day celebrates the communion of saints and the example of those who have reached holiness. The following day, 2 November, is dedicated in the Catholic liturgy to the commemoration of the faithful departed, a related observance with a distinct focus.[5]

Slovakia’s Act No. 241/1993 lists 1 November as the Feast of All Saints among the days of rest. The date is fixed by law, so the holiday remains on 1 November when it falls on a weekend.[1]

Cemetery visits and remembrance

A familiar Slovak observance is visiting cemeteries on or around the feast. Slovakia’s national tourism portal describes All-Hallows’ Day as a time for quiet reflection by candlelight; the Interior Ministry also notes that visitors decorate graves with wreaths, bouquets and candles.[3][4]

These visits can bring extra activity around cemeteries, so take care with open flames near flowers, wreaths and other decorations. The Slovak fire service advises placing candles securely and away from combustible items.[4]

Work, shops and planning

The statutory day of rest does not mean every workplace must close. The Labour Code limits work on days of rest, while allowing certain necessary and continuous operations; whether an employee works depends on the applicable rules and their work schedule.[1][2]

Shops are not required to close under the retail-sale ban for 1 November. Since 1 November 2025, the ban applies to a shorter list of dates that does not include All Saints’ Day, according to Slovakia’s National Labour Inspectorate. Individual opening hours still depend on each business, so check ahead.[2]

All Saints’ Day is a public holiday in Slovakia, when people honour the dead at cemeteries.[1][3]