Public Holidays in Benin 2026 – National, Christian & Cultural Holidays
Benin observes an engaging mix of public holidays that highlight its rich cultural heritage and religious diversity. The country’s official calendar includes Christian, Islamic, and national commemorations celebrated throughout the year.
Overview of Public Holidays in Benin
Public holidays in Benin combine religious observances, national milestones, and cultural traditions. As a secular nation with a multi-faith population, Benin officially recognizes both Christian and Muslim holidays alongside independence-related events. On these days, government offices, banks, and most private enterprises close, while towns host cultural gatherings, parades, and religious ceremonies.
List of Public Holidays in Benin (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the start of the new year across Benin. |
| Vodun Festival | January 10 | Saturday | Celebrates Benin’s traditional religion with rituals, music, and cultural events. |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Easter Monday | April 6 | Monday | Christian celebration following Easter Sunday. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Recognizes workers’ contributions and labor rights. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 20–22* | Friday–Sunday* | Marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. |
| Ascension Day | May 14 | Thursday | Christian feast commemorating Jesus Christ’s ascension. |
| Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) | May 25 | Monday | Celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit. |
| Eid al-Adha | May 28–30* | Thursday–Saturday* | Marks Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to God. |
| Independence Day | August 1 | Saturday | Commemorates independence from France in 1960. |
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Saturday | Honors the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| Maouloud (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) | September 25* | Friday* | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Sunday | Christian day honoring all saints. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Christian celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. |
*Islamic holidays depend on lunar sightings and may vary by one or two days.
List of Public Holidays in Benin (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the new year across Benin. |
| Vodun Festival | January 10 | Friday | Honors Benin’s traditional religion and cultural heritage. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Marks the resurrection of Jesus; celebrated nationwide by Christians. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Celebrates workers’ rights and economic progress. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 31 – April 2* | Monday – Wednesday* | Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | Christian feast marking Jesus Christ’s ascension to heaven. |
| Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) | June 9 | Monday | Celebrates the Holy Spirit’s descent upon the Apostles. |
| Eid al-Adha | June 7 – 10* | Saturday – Tuesday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s act of obedience to God. |
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Friday | Celebrates the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| Independence Day | August 1 | Friday | Marks Benin’s independence from France in 1960. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Honors all Christian saints and martyrs. |
| Maouloud (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) | September 6* | Saturday* | Commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Benin’s public holidays celebrate both faith and nationhood. Vodun Festival on January 10 is uniquely Beninese, showcasing traditional music, dance, and rituals. Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and EEid al-Adha reflect the country’s Muslim heritage, while Christian celebrations such as Easter and Christmas are observed with church services and family gatherings. Independence Day unites citizens in patriotic pride and remembrance.
Public Observances and Closures
During national holidays, government institutions, schools, and many businesses close. In major cities like Cotonou and Porto-Novo, Independence Day is marked by parades and cultural exhibitions. Religious holidays feature communal prayers, festive meals, and neighborhood gatherings, reflecting Benin’s strong sense of community and coexistence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Benin have?
Benin observes around 13 to 15 public holidays each year, combining national, Islamic, Christian, and cultural celebrations.
What is special about Vodun Festival?
Vodun Festival on January 10 celebrates Benin’s ancestral religion with ceremonies, drumming, and dances in Ouidah and other regions.
When is Benin’s Independence Day?
Independence Day is celebrated on August 1, commemorating freedom from French colonial rule in 1960.
Does Benin celebrate both Christian and Muslim holidays?
Yes. As a multi-faith nation, Benin officially observes Christian holidays such as Easter and Christmas, as well as Muslim feasts like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Benin reflect unity in diversity. Whether celebrating Vodun Festival, Eid, or Independence Day, these occasions highlight the nation’s harmony, cultural depth, and shared values.
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