School Holidays in Hong Kong 2025/2026

If you’re like many parents and students who often find themselves scrambling to remember school holiday dates, you’re not alone. School calendars in Hong Kong can vary depending on the type of school, whether public or private, and sometimes even within international schools. 

To make planning your year easier, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about school holidays in Hong Kong 2025-2026. From public holidays to term breaks, we’ve put everything in one place.

Overview of School Holidays in Hong Kong in 2025-2026

Hong Kong offers various school holidays influenced by public holidays and school-specific breaks. While local and international schools follow different schedules, common breaks like Christmas and Chinese New Year are observed across all institutions. These holidays give students time to recharge, spend time with family, or engage in educational activities. In 2025, these breaks offer families opportunities to enjoy time together, travel, and participate in extracurricular activities that enhance students’ learning.

List of Public Holidays in Hong Kong (2025-2026)

Public holidays in Hong Kong are set by the government and observed by all schools. These breaks provide students with time off, and many families use them for trips or local outings.

Table of Public Holidays with Dates

Here are the public holidays in Hong Kong covering the 2025-2026 school year:

How Public Holidays Affect School Closures

Public holidays determine school closures in Hong Kong. Public schools follow a government schedule, while international schools also observe these holidays but may add their own breaks. These holidays offer families time to travel or celebrate, particularly during Chinese New Year and Christmas.

Long Weekends & Leave Planning Tips

Some public holidays fall on weekdays, creating the perfect opportunity for family holidays or short trips. Here are some tips to help plan your leave:

1. Check the school calendar early: Ensure you’re aware of public holidays and term breaks to avoid last-minute disruptions.
2. Plan around public holidays: Since schools will be closed for holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year, plan family activities or getaways during these times.
3. Take advantage of long weekends: Some public holidays fall close to weekends, creating long weekends that are ideal for short trips or staycations.

Term Breaks in Hong Kong Schools (2025–2026)

Schools in Hong Kong have their own term break schedules, but common breaks, such as Christmas and Chinese New Year, occur across both local and international schools.

Public Schools Term Dates

Public schools in Hong Kong typically follow a fixed academic calendar set by the Education Bureau. The term dates for public schools are as follows:

• First Term: Starts on 1 September 2025 and ends on 22 December 2025
• Second Term: Begins on 4 January 2026 and ends on 31 March 2026
• Third Term: Starts on 15 April 2026 and ends on 30 June 2026

These dates may vary slightly depending on specific schools, but public schools generally stick to this pattern, with holidays aligned with the official public holidays.

Private & International Schools Term Dates

International schools in Hong Kong have more flexibility with term dates, often starting in mid-August, earlier than public schools. Some may also offer additional mid-term breaks or adjust summer holidays to accommodate expatriate families.

School Holidays in Public and Private Schools (2025–2026)

Both public and private schools in Hong Kong observe the same public holidays, but their academic calendars and term breaks differ. Public schools follow a government-set schedule with fewer breaks, while private and international schools, like the English Schools Foundation (ESF), often have more flexibility and additional breaks, including earlier starts and longer winter or spring holidays.

International School Holidays in Hong Kong 2025–2026

International schools in Hong Kong align their schedules with their home country’s academic year, with adjustments for local holidays. Here are the holiday schedules for some popular international schools:

Hong Kong International School

• Public Holiday (Day After Mid-Autumn Festival) – 1 September 2025
• National Day – 1 October 2025
• Fall Break – 2 October 2025 to 4 October 2025
• Chung Yeung Festival – 11 October 2025
• Winter Break – 21 December 2025 to 4 January 2026
• Spring Break – 27 March 2026 to 12 April 2026
• Ching Ming Festival – 4 April 2026
• Labour Day – 1 May 2026
• Buddha’s Birthday – 5 May 2026
• Summer Break – 15 June 2026 to 14 August 2026

Canadian International School of Hong Kong

• Public Holiday (Day After Mid-Autumn Festival) – 1 September 2025
• National Day – 1 October 2025
• Chung Yeung Festival – 11 October 2025
• Winter Break: 22 December 2025 to 5 January 2026
• Spring Break: 13 March 2026 to 27 March 2026
• Ching Ming Festival – 4 April 2026
• Labour Day – 1 May 2026
• Buddha’s Birthday – 5 May 2026
• Summer Break: 30 June 2026 to 21 August 2026

French International School of Hong Kong

• Public Holiday (Day After Mid-Autumn Festival) – 1 September 2025
• National Day – 1 October 2025
• Chung Yeung Festival – 11 October 2025
• Winter Break: 19 December 2025 to 4 January 2026
• Spring Break: 26 March 2026 to 10 April 2026
• Ching Ming Festival – 4 April 2026
• Labour Day – 1 May 2026
• Buddha’s Birthday – 5 May 2026
• Summer Break: 10 June 2026 to 26 August 2026

German Swiss International School

• National Day – 1 October 2025
• Public Holiday (Day After Mid-Autumn Festival) – 7 October 2025
• Autumn Break – 27 October 2025 to 31 October 2025
• Winter Break: 15 December 2025 to 2 January 2026
• Chinese New Year Public Holidays – 17 February 2026 to 19 February 2026
• Easter Holidays: 30 March 2026 to 10 April 2026
• Ching Ming Festival – 5 April 2026
• Labour Day – 1 May 2026
• Buddha’s Birthday – 24 May 2026
• Tuen Ng Festival – 19 June 2026
• Summer Break: 26 June 2026 to 17 August 2026

English Schools Foundation (ESF)

• National Day – 1 October 2025
• Public Holiday (Day After Mid-Autumn Festival) – 7 October 2025
• Christmas Holidays: 25 December 2025 to 26 December 2025
• New Year Holiday – 1 January 2026 
• Chinese New Year Public Holidays – 17 February 2026 to 19 February 2026
• General Holidays – 3 April 2026 to 7 April 2026
• General Holidays – 1 May 2026 to 25 May 2026
• General Holidays – 19 June 2026 to 1 July 2026

These schools have schedules that align with both local and international holidays, helping expatriate families balance travel and academics.

School Holiday Activities in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers a variety of activities during school holidays to keep students engaged and learning outside the classroom. Here are some ideas:

Educational Camps and Workshops

During school holidays, parents often seek educational camps and workshops for continued learning. Popular options include language immersion and science or technology workshops.

1. Language Camps: Perfect for students looking to improve their Mandarin or English skills.
2. STEM Camps: Great for children interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
3. Art & Craft Workshops: These workshops offer a creative outlet for the children’s artistic side.

Family-Friendly Events and Local Attractions

Hong Kong is home to various family-friendly events and attractions that are perfect for school holidays:

1. Hong Kong Disneyland: Enjoy the magical world of Disneyland with rides, shows, and parades.
2. Ocean Park: Explore marine life and enjoy thrilling rides at this famous amusement park.
3. Hiking Trails: For outdoor lovers, Hong Kong has a range of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views.

Volunteer and Internship Opportunities for Teens

For older students looking to make good use of their time, volunteering and internships can be a great way to gain experience. Some opportunities include:

1. Community Service Projects: Helping at local charities or community events.
2. Internships in Local Businesses: Some businesses offer short-term internships for students during the holidays.

Boost Academic Performance During the Holidays with TutorsPlus

The holidays are also a great time for students to get extra academic support. TutorsPlus offers tutoring services that can help students strengthen areas they find challenging and prepare for upcoming exams. Whether it’s Maths, English, or Science, personalised tutoring can make a huge difference.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Are there differences in holidays between primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, primary and secondary schools generally follow the same public holiday schedule. However, the length of the term breaks may differ slightly, with secondary schools often having a bit more flexibility.

Do public and private schools have different term dates?

Yes, public and private schools often have different academic calendars. While public schools follow a set schedule from the Education Bureau, private and international schools may have different start and end dates depending on their educational system.

What are some good student activities during school holidays in Hong Kong?

Some excellent student activities include attending educational camps, participating in local festivals, visiting museums, or volunteering. Students can also join various workshops to enhance their skills and interests.

Conclusion

School holidays in Hong Kong in 2025 offer a variety of breaks for students, including both public and private school holidays, as well as numerous activities and opportunities for learning and fun. Whether you’re looking to travel, engage in educational programs, or simply enjoy quality family time, Hong Kong has plenty to offer. With this guide to school holidays in 2025-2026, you can plan your year ahead and make the most of your time off.

By Sara Lloyd

Sara has been an education consultant for TutorsPlus for 15 years, and is an expert on international IB education.  She is also a parent of two lively children.