January 1, 2026
New Year's Day
Take leave: January 2, 2026
1 leave days4 days off
Free online calculator
Bridge-day calculator
The bridge-day calculator finds Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday public holidays and suggests leave days that create longer breaks.
04
1
Input
2
Result
May 14, 2026
Ascension Day
Take leave: May 15, 2026
1 leave days4 days off
Detailed guide
How to use the bridge-day calculator
How bridge-day opportunities work
A Tuesday holiday can often be connected to the previous weekend by taking Monday off. A Thursday works the same way with Friday. A Wednesday holiday can combine with two leave days before or after it to create a five-day block. The calculator detects these classic patterns.
Monday and Friday holidays already create a long weekend without additional leave and are therefore not presented as bridge-day recommendations. The list focuses on dates where one or two leave days create a new continuous break.
Country and region change the suggestions
Holiday calendars vary significantly across countries and subdivisions. A date may apply nationwide, only in one state or canton, or even within a municipality. The calculator combines nationwide dates with the region selected for the chosen year.
Without a region, the suggestions use nationwide holidays only. For realistic personal planning, choose the actual place of work. Mobile employment and multiple workplaces may require an employment-law assessment.
Planning bridge days responsibly
Popular bridge days are often requested early. A yearly overview helps colleagues coordinate leave, arrange cover and avoid booking travel solely because a day is assumed to be available. The tool covers every supported year from 2026 through 2050.
The suggestions assume a normal Monday-to-Friday week. Shift work, weekend duties, company closures and collective agreements can create different opportunities. A calculated option is not the same as approved leave.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about bridge-day calculator
What is a bridge day?
It is a working day between a public holiday and a weekend that can turn one leave day into a longer continuous break.
Which holidays are evaluated?
Nationwide holidays and, when selected, the public holidays applicable in that region and year.
Why are Monday and Friday holidays omitted?
They create a long weekend without an extra leave day, so they are not classic bridge days.
How does a Wednesday holiday help?
Two leave days on Monday and Tuesday or Thursday and Friday can create five consecutive days off.
Are school holidays included?
No. Suggestions use public holidays and weekends. School holidays remain available in the annual country calendar.
Does the tool guarantee leave approval?
No. Leave must still be approved under the employer’s operational and contractual rules.