If you’re searching for a definitive guide to Catholic Holy Days of Obligation, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re wondering which days require Mass attendance, why these days are important, or how the rules change depending on the calendar, this article answers all your questions and more. We'll share the official list of Holy Days of Obligation for U.S. Catholics in 2025, plus clear answers to the top questions about Holy Days of Obligation! 

What Are Holy Days of Obligation?

Holy Days of Obligation are special feast days in the Catholic Church when Catholics are required to attend Mass, just as they are on Sundays. These days commemorate the most significant events in the life of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the saints, and are central to Catholic worship and belief.

List of Catholic Holy Days of Obligation in the United States (2025)

Here is the official list of Holy Days of Obligation for U.S. Catholics in 2025:

Note: The Ascension is observed on Thursday, May 29, in some U.S. dioceses, but in most dioceses, it is transferred to Sunday, June 1. Always check your local parish or diocesan calendar for specifics.

Top 5 Questions About Holy Days of Obligation

1. What are the Holy Days of Obligation in the Catholic Church?

Holy Days of Obligation are days on which Catholics are required to attend Mass, in addition to every Sunday. In the U.S., these are:

• Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (January 1)
• Ascension of the Lord (May 29 or the following Sunday)
• Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15)
• All Saints (November 1)
• Immaculate Conception (December 8)
• Christmas (December 25)

2. Why do Catholics have Holy Days of Obligation?

These days highlight the most important mysteries of faith and events in salvation history. The Church calls Catholics to gather in worship, reflect on the life of Christ, Mary, and the saints, and grow spiritually as a community.

3. Is Mass attendance required on Holy Days of Obligation?

Yes, Catholics are required to attend Mass on these days, unless prevented by serious reasons such as illness or caring for infants. Missing Mass deliberately on a Holy Day of Obligation is considered a grave matter in Catholic teaching.

4. Do Holy Days of Obligation change by country or year?

Yes. The Vatican sets a universal list, but each country’s bishops’ conference can transfer or suppress certain days. In the U.S., the list above applies, but some feasts (like the Ascension) may be moved to Sunday, and the obligation is sometimes lifted if the feast falls on a Saturday or Monday (except for Christmas and Immaculate Conception).

5. What happens if a Holy Day of Obligation falls on a Saturday or Monday?

In the U.S., if Mary, Mother of God (Jan 1), the Assumption (Aug 15), or All Saints (Nov 1) falls on a Saturday or Monday, the obligation to attend Mass is lifted. However, Christmas and the Immaculate Conception always remain obligatory, regardless of the day of the week.

Additional Quick Facts About Holy Days of Obligation

• Are Sundays Holy Days of Obligation? Yes, every Sunday is the foremost Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics worldwide.
• Are there differences between countries and states? Yes, for example, Hawaii observes only Christmas and the Immaculate Conception as obligatory.
• What if I miss Mass on a Holy Day of Obligation? If you miss Mass deliberately and without a serious reason, it is considered a mortal sin in Catholic teaching, and you should confess this.  

Stay Up to Date

Holy Days of Obligation are an essential part of Catholic life and worship. Always check with your local parish or diocese for any updates or exceptions in your area!