Holiday detail
Rizal Day
Also known as Araw ni Rizal.
Rizal Day honors Jose Rizal's December 30, 1896 execution and his lasting influence on Philippine nationalism, education, and civic life.
Quick facts
Filipino name
Araw ni Rizal
Also known as Rizal Day in English.
Araw ni Rizal is Filipino for 'Rizal's Day' (araw = day, ni = of). It commemorates the December 30, 1896 execution of Dr. Jose Rizal at Bagumbayan.
Meaning and traditions
Rizal Day commemorates the execution of Dr. Jose Rizal on December 30, 1896 at Bagumbayan. It's a regular holiday recognizing his role in our nationalism, reform, and the long arc toward independence.
Expect flag ceremonies, wreath-laying at Rizal Park, and renewed discussion of his writings and example. It also lands inside the year-end stretch, which makes it a key date for anyone trying to hold on to a continuous break between Christmas and New Year.
Long-weekend note
This holiday creates a very long weekend from Dec 30, 2026-Jan 3, 2027.
No extra leave day is needed for this break.
Frequently asked questions
When is Rizal Day in 2026?
Rizal Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, December 30, 2026.
What does Rizal Day mean?
Rizal Day commemorates the execution of Dr. Jose Rizal on December 30, 1896 at Bagumbayan. It's a regular holiday recognizing his role in our nationalism, reform, and the long arc toward independence. Also called Araw ni Rizal.
What does Araw ni Rizal mean in English?
Araw ni Rizal is Filipino for 'Rizal's Day' (araw = day, ni = of). It commemorates the December 30, 1896 execution of Dr. Jose Rizal at Bagumbayan.
Is Rizal Day a regular or special holiday in the Philippines?
It's a regular holiday — a non-working day with full pay protections under the Labor Code.
Does Rizal Day 2026 make a long weekend?
Yes. Rizal Day 2026 forms a very long weekend from Dec 30, 2026-Jan 3, 2027. You don't need to file any leave.
What are common traditions for Rizal Day in the Philippines?
Common observances: flag ceremonies, wreath-laying, history lessons, year-end reflection.