Slovakia National Pilgrimage and holiday changes

In 2026, the feast of the Seven Sorrows of Mary in Slovakia will undergo changes due to Law No. 261/2025 Z. z. regarding the consolidation of public finances. Although it remains a religious holiday, September 15 will not be a day of rest and will be a standard working day for most employees, though those working are entitled to a holiday pay supplement of at least 100% of their average earnings. This change follows a specific agreement between the Slovak Republic and the Holy See.

In conjunction with these changes, the Basilica of the Seven Sorrows of Mary in Šaštín-Stráže is hosting a National Pilgrimage from September 12 to 16, 2026. The theme is ‘Seven Sorrows of Mary – Mother of Life,’ commemorating the fifth anniversary of Pope Francis’s visit to Slovakia. Because September 15 is not a public holiday, the Conference of Bishops of Slovakia is primarily inviting believers to the main celebrations on Sunday, September 13. The program includes holy masses, concerts, and spiritual activities, with Archbishop Stanislav Zvolenský expected to lead major celebrations.