Public Holidays in Bangladesh 2025 – National & Religious Calendar
Bangladesh observes a rich calendar of public holidays each year that highlight its Islamic heritage, national identity, and cultural diversity. These holidays include major Islamic festivals, national commemorations, and traditional Bengali celebrations.
Overview of Public Holidays in Bangladesh
Public holidays in Bangladesh are a mix of religious, national, and cultural observances. The Islamic holidays follow the lunar Hijri calendar, while national days mark key moments in the country’s history, such as independence and language movement anniversaries. During these holidays, government offices, schools, and banks close, and public celebrations take place across the nation.
List of Public Holidays in Bangladesh (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| International Mother Language Day | February 21 | Friday | Honors those who sacrificed their lives for the Bengali language in 1952. |
| Independence Day | March 26 | Wednesday | Commemorates Bangladesh’s declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971. |
| Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) | April 14 | Monday | Marks the start of the Bengali calendar; celebrated with fairs and cultural events. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 31 – April 2* | Monday – Wednesday* | Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan fasting. |
| May Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrates workers’ rights and social justice. |
| Buddha Purnima | May 12 | Monday | Honors the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. |
| Eid al-Adha | June 7 – 10* | Saturday – Tuesday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. |
| National Mourning Day | August 15 | Friday | Remembers the assassination of Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. |
| Janmashtami | August 16 | Saturday | Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, an important Hindu festival. |
| Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi | September 6* | Saturday* | Commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| Victory Day | December 16 | Tuesday | Marks Bangladesh’s victory in the Liberation War of 1971. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Observed by the Christian community to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. |
*Islamic holidays are subject to lunar calendar variations and official moon sightings.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Bangladesh’s holidays reflect its unity in diversity. Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha bring families together in prayer, charity, and feasting. Pohela Boishakh showcases vibrant Bengali traditions with processions, fairs, and music, while national days like Independence Day and Victory Day inspire patriotism through parades and cultural programs.
Public Observances and Closures
On national and religious holidays, government offices, schools, and financial institutions close across the country. Transportation services may operate on limited schedules. Public spaces in Dhaka, Chittagong, and other major cities become lively with parades, fairs, and community gatherings, particularly during Pohela Boishakh and Victory Day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Bangladesh have?
Bangladesh observes around 14 to 16 public holidays annually, combining Islamic, national, and cultural celebrations.
What are the main national holidays in Bangladesh?
The major national holidays are Independence Day (March 26) and Victory Day (December 16).
Does Bangladesh celebrate non-Islamic holidays?
Yes. Bangladesh observes cultural and religious holidays such as Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) and Buddha Purnima.
Are Eid holidays public holidays in Bangladesh?
Yes. Both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major national public holidays celebrated across the country.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Bangladesh reflect the nation’s cultural richness and spiritual unity. From Islamic festivals to Bengali traditions and national commemorations, these holidays foster harmony, heritage, and pride among the people of Bangladesh.
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