We're here to help you keep count of the days to or since a date. Just click the button below and enter your chosen date to get started. Also choose the suggested days or search for a special day above #countingthedays
The Assumption of Mary, known in Germany as "Mariä Himmelfahrt," is celebrated on August 15th each year. It is a public holiday in some predominantly Catholic regions, such as Bavaria and Saarland, while other parts of the country do not observe it as a day off.
The feast day commemorates the belief that the Virgin Mary was assumed body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life. This belief has deep roots in Christian tradition and was formally defined as a dogma of the Roman Catholic Church by Pope Pius XII in 1950.
In Germany, the Assumption of Mary is marked with various religious traditions. Processions and special church services are common, where believers attend Mass and participate in prayers honoring Mary. In some regions, herbs are blessed on this day—a tradition stemming from an ancient pre-Christian practice—reflecting the idea that around this time of year, medicinal plants have particularly strong healing properties.
On Mariä Himmelfahrt, people who live in areas where it's a public holiday may attend religious services or visit shrines dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Families might also enjoy a day off together partaking in local festivities or spending time outdoors. In non-Catholic regions where it's not a public holiday, it's typically a regular workday without special observances.