The Colombian Congress approved Law 2578, creating a new national holiday to honor the Virgin of Chiquinquirá [1].
This legislative change increases the number of non-working days in the country, impacting both the labor market and the domestic tourism sector. By adding a religious observance to the official calendar, the state recognizes the cultural and spiritual significance of the patroness of the nation [1], [2].
Colombia will now have 19 national holidays in 2026 [2]. The newly established holiday officially falls on July 9 [2], but according to the current regulatory framework for holiday shifts, the observance will be moved to Monday, July 13, 2026 [2], [3].
This shift creates a long weekend for citizens. The holiday bridge will span from Saturday, July 11, through Monday, July 13, 2026 [3]. The measure ensures that the celebration of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá aligns with the country's existing practice of moving holidays to Mondays to facilitate travel, and rest.
The legislation was passed to render homage to the Virgin of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá [1], [2]. The move is part of a broader effort to institutionalize dates of high religious and national importance within the Republic of Colombia [1].
Public and private sectors are expected to adjust their 2026 operational calendars to accommodate the 19th holiday [2]. While the law specifically designates July 9, the administrative move to July 13 ensures the holiday provides a continuous break for the workforce [2], [3].
“Colombia will now have 19 national holidays in 2026”
The addition of a 19th national holiday reflects the enduring influence of Catholic traditions on Colombian public policy. By shifting the observance to a Monday, the government maximizes the economic potential of the holiday through increased domestic tourism and leisure spending, while formally codifying the religious status of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá in the national legal framework.
