Italy Plans to Reinstate St. Francis Day as National Holiday in 2026

Italy's parliament has approved reinstating October 4 as a national holiday to honor St. Francis of Assisi, the country's patron saint, with the holiday set to return in 2026 after being abolished in 1977 during austerity measures. The bill, backed by broad bipartisan support and championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, emphasizes St. Francis's values of peace, poverty, environmental protection, and national unity. The holiday will join Italy's existing 12 national celebrations and coincides with the 800th anniversary of St. Francis's death, aiming to reinforce Italian identity and cultural heritage. The government estimates the holiday will cost about 10 million euros in overtime for essential workers but expects minimal impact on overall productivity. The move contrasts with other European countries like France, which have sought to reduce public holidays, and is seen by supporters as a reaffirmation of Italy's faith and traditions amid contemporary social challenges. Political and religious leaders alike have embraced the holiday's return as a unifying symbol during times of division and international tension.