Regional holiday calendars and school recesses drive tourism expectations

Various Latin American and Spanish regions are reviewing upcoming holiday calendars and school recess periods, which are expected to drive significant tourism and economic activity.

In Colombia, the upcoming school recess from October 5 to 11 is anticipated to boost tourism, with Cotelco estimating hotel occupancy could reach approximately 61.7%. Travelers are increasingly seeking nature-based destinations and local gastronomic experiences in regions like Cundinamarca and Nariño.

Argentina's 2026 calendar includes a long weekend in October for the Day of Respect for Cultural Diversity. Additionally, President Javier Milei has decreed a national holiday for November 9 to mark the visit of Pope Leo XIV.

In Spain, the Community of Madrid has approved its 2027 labor calendar with 12 fixed holidays, while the Balearic Islands have also set their 2027 schedule, featuring four long weekends due to favorable holiday distributions.

Other regional updates include: Mexico will have no mandatory holidays in October 2026; Chile will observe a three-day weekend on October 12 for the Day of the Encounter of Two Worlds; and the Dominican Republic is noting various historical commemorations and upcoming holidays in November and December.