Spanish holiday guide
Ceuta Day
Ceuta Day on 2 September commemorates the 1415 appointment of Pedro de Meneses as first governor of Ceuta.
What it means
It is the autonomous city’s official holiday, stressing institutional beginnings after the Portuguese conquest.
Origin and history
After Ceuta fell to Portugal in August 1415, Meneses was appointed on 2 September; the Assembly fixed that date as Día de Ceuta in 1997.
How it is observed in Spain
Institutional ceremony and autonomy medals; public holiday in Ceuta.
Interesting facts
- Linked to Pedro de Meneses and the “aleo” staff tradition.
- Chosen over the 21 August conquest date.
- Declared by the Assembly of Ceuta in 1997.
Public calendar
Check the 2026 dates
Holiday status depends on place. See the official calendar pages for the locations covered by this guide.