📅 holiday

Portugal Independence Day

Tuesday, December 1, 2026

— days to go

Becomes a Kingdom. Portugal is recognized as a separate and independent kingdom from the Kingdom of León, with Afonso Henriques as its first king

History

Portugal Independence Day on December 1 commemorates the recognition of Portugal as an independent kingdom in 1143 through the Treaty of Zamora with King Alfonso VII of León. Portugal's history as a distinct entity began when Count Henry of Burgundy established control over the northern Iberian territory in the 11th century and received the title of Count of Portugal from the King of León. His son, Afonso Henriques, declared independence and became Portugal's first king around 1139, though full recognition from León came in 1143 with the Treaty of Zamora. This treaty acknowledged Portuguese sovereignty and laid the foundation for one of Europe's oldest continuous nation-states. Over the following centuries, Portugal developed its maritime empire, becoming a global power through exploration and colonization. December 1 celebrates Portugal's establishment as an independent kingdom and the birth of the Portuguese nation.

How It's Celebrated

Celebrate by learning more about the occasion, sharing on social media with relevant hashtags, participating in community events, or taking small personal actions that align with the day's theme.

Countries

🇵🇹 PT

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🌍 observance May 20

National Rio Day

Origins of the Name Rio. The name "Rio", meaning "river", was commonly used in Spain and Portugal

PTESUS

🌍 observance Jun 10

Portugal Day

In 1580, Death of. Luís de Camíµes. Luís de Camíµes, one of Portugal's most respected poets, who contributed significantly to Portuguese literature, passed away. His death later becomes a cornerstone of Portugal Day

🌍 observance Jul 26

Agitígueda

In 2006, Agitígueda. Agitígueda was brought to life in 2006, aimed at promoting arts, especially music, and transforming the cultural landscape of the city of ígueda, Portugal

PTUS

📅 holiday Nov 30

St Andrew's Day

Saint Andrew’s Day is celebrated every 30 November in Scotland. The day celebrates the Feast of Saint Andrew and is also considered Scotland’s National Day. In 2026, Saint Andrew's Day falls on Monday 30 November. The holiday will be on Tuesday 30 November in 2027. *Please refer to this note for Scotland-specific information. This patron saint day was declared a bank holiday in 2006 by the Scottish Parliament although banks are not required to close if they do not wish to. If 30 November occurs on a weekend, the bank holiday is moved to the following Monday. Saint Andrew is notable in that he was one of the original twelve disciples of Jesus Christ and was also the brother of Saint Peter. Before following Jesus, Andrew was a fisherman. He was born at Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee. The main colour you will see in Scotland on Saint Andrew’s Day is the white diagonal cross on blue background of the Scottish flag – the Saltire. This is the Saint Andrew’s cross, and represents the shape of the cross on which Saint Andrew was said to have been crucified. The history of the Scottish link to Saint Andrew goes back as far as 832AD when Óengus II promised God that if the Scots and Picts were victorious in battle against the Angles he would make Saint Andrew the patron saint of Scotland. And they were. Saint Andrew’s Day’s amazing menus include cullen skink (haddock and potato soup), highland venison casseroles, potted hough (shin) with mustard sauce and Scottish tablet (a very sweet treat). Events around Scotland include flag ceremonies, the Shindig in George Square of Glasgow that features live music, and local celebrations in the town of Saint Andrews in the Kingdom of Fife. There is also free entry to many of Scotland’s castles and attractions on the day. Scotland has a free Saint Andrew’s Day app available for iPhone and Android with Scottish and worldwide events, menu ideas and much more.