Public Holidays in Algeria 2026 – Islamic, National & Public Holidays
Algeria celebrates a number of public holidays each year that highlight its Islamic faith, revolutionary history, and rich cultural traditions. These holidays unite Algerians across provinces and also offer excellent opportunities for short family trips, cultural outings, and weekend stays at some of the best hotels in Algeria. Visitors and residents often explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cities using guides such as places to visit in Algeria.
Overview of Public Holidays in Algeria
Most public holidays in Algeria follow the Islamic lunar calendar, while others commemorate major national milestones such as independence and revolution. Schools, banks, and government offices close during these public holidays, allowing families to gather for prayer, meals, and cultural traditions. Many people also take the opportunity to travel domestically and enjoy Algeria’s scenic cities and desert landscapes.
List of Public Holidays in Algeria (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Friday | Honors Algerian workers and labor contributions. |
| Independence Day | July 5 | Sunday | Commemorates Algeria’s independence from France in 1962. |
| Revolution Day | November 1 | Sunday | Marks the beginning of the Algerian War of Independence in 1954. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 20–22* | Friday–Sunday* | Celebrates the end of Ramadan with communal prayers and festive gatherings. |
| Eid al-Adha | May 28–30* | Thursday–Saturday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and the spirit of sacrifice. |
| Islamic New Year (Hijri) | July 17* | Friday* | Marks the beginning of the new Islamic lunar year. |
| Ashura | July 26* | Sunday* | Observed on the 10th of Muharram as a day of reflection. |
| Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet’s Birthday) | September 25* | Friday* | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). |
*Islamic dates are approximate and depend on the lunar sighting announced by Algerian religious authorities.
List of Public Holidays in Algeria (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Labor Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrates the contributions of Algerian workers. |
| Independence Day | July 5 | Saturday | Commemorates Algeria’s independence from France in 1962. |
| Revolution Day | November 1 | Saturday | Marks the outbreak of the 1954 revolution. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 30 – April 1* | Sunday–Tuesday* | Celebrates the end of Ramadan with communal prayers and family gatherings. |
| Eid al-Adha | June 6 – June 8* | Friday–Sunday* | Honors Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and sacrifice. |
| Islamic New Year (Hijri) | July 27* | Sunday* | Marks the beginning of the Islamic year. |
| Ashura | August 6* | Wednesday* | A day of reflection and remembrance. |
| Mawlid al-Nabi | September 5* | Friday* | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). |
*Islamic dates are approximate and may vary based on moon sightings.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Algeria’s holidays emphasize faith, unity, and national heritage. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha bring families together for worship, charity, and feasting, while Mawlid al-Nabi is marked with gatherings, sweets, and traditional celebrations. National holidays such as Independence Day and Revolution Day honor the nation’s long struggle for sovereignty. Many Algerians also take advantage of these holidays to travel locally using guides like places to visit in Algeria or plan stays at the best hotels in Algeria.
Public Observances and Closures
Government offices, schools, and financial institutions close during official holidays. Major cities such as Algiers, Oran, and Constantine host special events, traditional markets, and cultural performances. Public transport may operate on reduced schedules, while tourist attractions and hotels remain open—making holidays an ideal time to explore Algeria’s cultural and natural landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Algeria have in 2026?
Algeria observes around 9 to 11 official public holidays in 2026, depending on the lunar dates of Islamic observances.
Which holidays are nationally significant in Algeria?
Independence Day on July 5 and Revolution Day on November 1 are the most significant national holidays, marking Algeria’s struggle for freedom.
Why do Islamic holiday dates vary each year?
Islamic holidays follow the Hijri lunar calendar, which is about 10–11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, Islamic observances shift earlier each year.
What are the most important religious holidays in Algeria?
Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Mawlid al-Nabi are among the most important religious holidays celebrated nationwide.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Algeria reflect the nation’s strong Islamic traditions and its proud revolutionary past. Whether celebrating Eid with family or honoring national heroes on Independence and Revolution Day, these holidays reinforce Algeria’s cultural identity and unity. They are also wonderful opportunities to explore the country—guided by resources such as places to visit in Algeria or curated lists of the best hotels in Algeria.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in Albania
