LEBANON (Enmaeya News) - November 17, 2025

The Lebanese government has declared Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2, 2025, as public holidays across the country in honor of Pope Leo XIV’s visit, the first papal trip to Lebanon in more than a decade. 

Under the decree, all public administrations, municipalities, universities, and both public and private schools will be closed during the two days. 

 The move is intended to allow citizens to participate fully in the activities surrounding the pope’s visit. 

Pope Leo XIV is expected to visit key religious and historic sites, including Annaya, Harissa, Bkerke, and Beirut. His trip will culminate in a public Mass at the Beirut Waterfront on December 2. 

The decision to declare a national holiday reflects the significance of this visit, which many see as a symbol of unity and hope for Lebanon in a time of political and economic challenges.