Saint Francis of Assisi, Patron Saint of Italy
Nationwide public holiday in Italy · Festa nazionale di San Francesco d'Assisi, patrono d'Italia
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 4 October | Sunday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 4 October | Monday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Italy.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Sat 2 Oct – Mon 4 Oct is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Rome around 4 October: high 24°C (76°F), low 15°C (59°F), rain on 44% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Rome. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Monday 4 October in Rome: (MET Norway)
About Saint Francis of Assisi, Patron Saint of Italy
This holiday on 4 October honours Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order, who died in 1226 and is known for his commitment to poverty and his love of nature. In 1939 Pope Pius XII proclaimed him patron saint of Italy together with Saint Catherine of Siena. The day was restored as a national public holiday from 2026, the 800th anniversary of his death.
Traditions
The main celebrations take place in Assisi, where each year a different Italian region offers the oil for the votive lamp that burns at the saint's tomb, in a ceremony attended by national and local authorities. Masses and events are also held in churches and Franciscan communities around the country.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Italy
Monday, 1 November 2027
More for Italy
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.