Boxing Day in San Marino

A fixed civil holiday

San Marino’s Law No. 152 of 18 December 1990 lists 26 December among the country’s civil holidays. The law took effect on 1 January 1991 and says that labour legislation and rules on civil acts on holidays are to be adjusted to the calendar it sets.[1]

Compensatory arrangements connected with the calendar changes are to be settled through agreements with trade unions, with equivalent compensation guaranteed if no agreement is reached.[1]

Why it is called Saint Stephen’s Day

The San Marino tourism authority lists 26 December as Santo Stefano, rather than Boxing Day. The country’s holiday law likewise gives the date as 26 December without adding a separate national name or account of its origin.[1][2]

In Catholic observance, 26 December is the Feast of Saint Stephen, whom the Holy See describes as the Church’s first martyr.[3]

What the official record says about opening

San Marino’s central bank lists Santo Stefano among the dates when the national payment system is closed. That is a concrete holiday effect for payments. Visitors should check directly with providers for branch, shop, restaurant and public transport hours.[4]

A government page lists special openings at the Montalbo and Serravalle cemeteries. Cemetery staff are on duty for these listed special openings; check directly with other offices and businesses for their hours.[5]

A date with a defined place in the calendar

The calendar law places 26 December alongside other fixed religious and civil holidays, and states that the working-time and civil-act rules are to be aligned with its holiday schedule.[1]