Public Holidays in Burkina Faso 2025 – National & Religious Calendar
Burkina Faso observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its cultural diversity, Islamic and Christian traditions, and national pride. These holidays bring families and communities together for celebration, reflection, and unity across the country.
Overview of Public Holidays in Burkina Faso
Public holidays in Burkina Faso include national commemorations, Islamic religious festivals, and Christian holidays. Key national dates such as Independence Day and Revolution Day mark important moments in the country’s history, while Eid and Christmas symbolize deep faith and spirituality. Government offices, banks, and schools close on these days, and festive gatherings take place nationwide.
List of Public Holidays in Burkina Faso (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the new calendar year. |
| Revolution Day | January 3 | Friday | Commemorates the 1966 uprising that led to major political change. |
| International Women’s Day | March 8 | Saturday | Celebrates women’s rights and contributions to national development. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Korité) | March 31 – April 2* | Monday – Wednesday* | Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Honors workers’ rights and achievements. |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | Christian celebration marking the ascension of Jesus Christ. |
| Eid al-Adha (Tabaski) | June 7 – 10* | Saturday – Tuesday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. |
| Assumption Day | August 15 | Friday | Honors the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven; observed by Christians. |
| Independence Day | August 5 | Tuesday | Marks independence from France in 1960; celebrated with parades and national pride. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Commemorates Christian saints and martyrs. |
| Proclamation of the Republic | December 11 | Thursday | Marks the 1958 establishment of the Republic of Upper Volta, now Burkina Faso. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. |
*Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar and are confirmed according to local moon sightings.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Burkina Faso’s public holidays highlight its peaceful coexistence of faiths. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major Islamic celebrations involving communal prayers and feasts, while Christmas and Ascension Day are observed by the Christian population. National holidays like Independence Day and Revolution Day symbolize unity, patriotism, and national pride.
Public Observances and Closures
During public holidays, government institutions, banks, and schools close, though shops and markets remain active in urban areas. In Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, parades, speeches, and cultural performances mark national holidays, while families gather for prayer, meals, and traditional festivities during religious ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Burkina Faso have?
Burkina Faso observes around 13 to 15 public holidays annually, depending on Islamic lunar calendar variations.
When is Independence Day celebrated in Burkina Faso?
Independence Day is celebrated on August 5, marking the country’s independence from France in 1960.
What are the major Islamic holidays in Burkina Faso?
The main Islamic holidays are Eid al-Fitr (Korité) and Eid al-Adha (Tabaski), both celebrated nationwide.
Does Burkina Faso celebrate Christian holidays?
Yes. Major Christian holidays include Christmas, Ascension Day, and All Saints’ Day.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Burkina Faso express the country’s strong sense of unity, faith, and cultural harmony. Whether through religious devotion or national pride, these observances reflect the peaceful coexistence and shared values of the Burkinabé people.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in Bulgaria
