Day Of Navarre
Dia de Navarra, or the Day of Navarre as it’s known in English, is a holiday observed in an autonomous community in Spain that commemorates the history and culture of Spain’s Navarre region. It is observed on the anniversary of Saint Francis Xavier’s death on December 3rd, 1552, and is a public holiday in the autonomous community of Navarra, Spain.
Spain (Local holiday)This means that it is a non-working day for the residents of this community, and many schools, businesses, and non-essential government agencies are closed. It is also a day when residents raise the Flag of Navarre high and enjoy the many public events that occur on this holiday.
The History of the Day of Navarre
Saint Francis Xavier was born on April 7th, 1506, in a small village of the Navarre region of Spain, known as Javier. He grew up to become a Jesuit priest and worked as a missionary in China, India, Japan, and Indonesia.
He died in China on December 3rd, 1552, and was canonized by the Church on March 12th, 1622. He is now the patron saint of Navarre, and that is why December 3rd, the date of his death, became a public holiday in Navarre, Spain.
Observing the Day of Navarre
Although this holiday is observed in Navarre, it is not a holiday in the rest of Spain. For the residents of Navarre, it is a day off work, and many government offices, schools, and businesses are closed. However, some businesses remain open on this day, usually including grocery stores and bakeries.
It is also a day when most public transportation operates on a reduced holiday schedule. Many people attend special religious services dedicated to Saint Francis Xavier. Other events that occur on this holiday include parades, cultural exhibitions, fairs, and other special celebratory events. It is also a day when many people visit their families and enjoy delicious regional meals such as Tudela artichokes, Pintxos, and Navarran beef.
Spain (Local holiday)
