Public Holidays in Burundi 2026 – National & Cultural Holidays

Burundi recognizes 14 nationwide public holiday categories in 2026, including Independence Day, national remembrance days, Christian celebrations and two Islamic festivals. The country's public holiday system is governed by presidential legislation that establishes paid holidays and provides rules for holidays falling on Sundays. Most dates are fixed, while Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha depend on the Islamic calendar and require appropriate confirmation. This guide explains Burundi's 2026 holiday dates, national commemorations, religious celebrations, employment rules and substitute holidays.

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Next Public Holiday in Burundi

Date	Day	Holiday	Status
November 2, 2026	Monday	All Saints' Day (Observed)	Confirmed

Public Holidays in Burundi 2026

Date	Day	Holiday	Status
January 1, 2026	Thursday	New Year's Day	Confirmed
February 5, 2026	Thursday	National Unity and Reconciliation Day	Confirmed
March 20, 2026	Friday	Eid al-Fitr (Aid-El-Fithr)	Expected
April 6, 2026	Monday	President Cyprien Ntaryamira Commemoration Day	Confirmed
May 1, 2026	Friday	International Labour Day	Confirmed
May 14, 2026	Thursday	Ascension Day	Confirmed
May 27, 2026	Wednesday	Eid al-Adha (Aid-El-Hadj)	Confirmed
June 8, 2026	Monday	National Patriotism Day and President Pierre Nkurunziza Commemoration	Confirmed
July 1, 2026	Wednesday	Independence Day	Confirmed
August 15, 2026	Saturday	Assumption Day	Confirmed
October 13, 2026	Tuesday	Prince Louis Rwagasore Commemoration Day	Confirmed
October 21, 2026	Wednesday	President Melchior Ndadaye Commemoration Day	Confirmed
November 2, 2026	Monday	All Saints' Day (Observed)	Confirmed
December 25, 2026	Friday	Christmas Day	Confirmed

Burundi's public holidays are principally governed by Presidential Decree No. 100/150 of 7 June 2021, which amended Decree No. 100/182 of 17 July 2006. Article 1 establishes the nationally recognized public holidays, while subsequent provisions address payment, additional declarations and Sunday substitutions.

Most recognized holidays occur on fixed calendar dates. Ascension Day follows the Christian Easter calendar, while Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha follow the Islamic lunar calendar. For this reason, the latter two holidays require particular attention when checking year-specific dates.

National and Historical Holidays in Burundi

Burundi's national public holidays commemorate independence, national unity and important figures in the country's political history. Several official holidays specifically honour leaders whose deaths marked significant events in Burundi's modern history.

National Unity and Reconciliation Day

National Unity and Reconciliation Day is observed annually on 5 February. The holiday commemorates the adoption of the Charter of National Unity in 1991 and recognizes the importance of reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among Burundi's communities.

The occasion reflects the country's efforts to promote a shared national identity and strengthen social cohesion. It remains one of Burundi's legally recognized nationwide public holidays.

President Cyprien Ntaryamira Commemoration Day

Burundi commemorates former President Cyprien Ntaryamira on 6 April each year. President Ntaryamira died on 6 April 1994 when the aircraft carrying him and Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana was shot down near Kigali.

His death occurred during a period of severe political instability in the Great Lakes region. The public holiday provides an occasion for national remembrance and reflection on Burundi's political history.

National Patriotism Day and President Pierre Nkurunziza Commemoration

National Patriotism Day is observed annually on 8 June and commemorates the death of former President Pierre Nkurunziza in 2020.

The holiday was incorporated into the national calendar through Presidential Decree No. 100/150 of 7 June 2021. Its official designation combines National Patriotism Day with the commemoration of President Pierre Nkurunziza.

The occasion is associated with national remembrance, patriotism and reflection on the country's political leadership and history.

Independence Day in Burundi

Independence Day is celebrated annually on 1 July. It commemorates Burundi's independence from Belgian administration on 1 July 1962.

The holiday marks the establishment of Burundi as an independent state and is one of the country's most important national celebrations. Official ceremonies and public activities may recognize national sovereignty, historical achievements and cultural identity.

In 2026, Independence Day falls on Wednesday, 1 July.

Prince Louis Rwagasore Commemoration Day

Prince Louis Rwagasore Commemoration Day is observed annually on 13 October. It honours Prince Louis Rwagasore, a prominent leader of Burundi's independence movement.

Rwagasore played a central role in the country's transition toward independence and was assassinated on 13 October 1961, before independence was achieved.

He is remembered as a national hero and an important figure in Burundi's struggle for sovereignty and political self-determination.

President Melchior Ndadaye Commemoration Day

President Melchior Ndadaye Commemoration Day falls on 21 October each year. It commemorates Burundi's first democratically elected Hutu president, who was assassinated during a military coup attempt on 21 October 1993.

His death was followed by widespread violence and political instability. The annual public holiday recognizes his place in Burundi's democratic history and provides an occasion for remembrance.

Religious Public Holidays in Burundi

Burundi recognizes Christian and Islamic religious holidays within its national public holiday framework. Christian holidays include Ascension Day, Assumption Day, All Saints' Day and Christmas Day, while the two recognized Islamic festivals are Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Ascension Day

Ascension Day is a Christian observance commemorating the ascension of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated on the fortieth day of the Easter season, counting Easter Sunday as the first day.

In 2026, Ascension Day falls on Thursday, 14 May. The holiday is recognized under Burundi's presidential public holiday decree, and its date is determined by the Christian Easter calendar.

Assumption Day

Assumption Day is observed annually on 15 August. It commemorates the Catholic belief in the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

The holiday is included in Burundi's official nationwide public holiday framework. In 2026, Assumption Day falls on Saturday, 15 August.

All Saints' Day

All Saints' Day is a Christian holiday commemorating the saints of the Christian tradition. Its regular calendar date is 1 November.

In 2026, 1 November falls on a Sunday. Under Article 4 of Burundi's public holiday decree, an eligible Sunday holiday is observed on the following working day. Accordingly, the observed holiday falls on Monday, 2 November 2026.

This statutory substitution is important for employees and businesses because the observed date differs from the religious calendar date.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is celebrated annually on 25 December and commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.

It is a nationwide public holiday in Burundi. In 2026, Christmas Day falls on a Friday, creating a potential three-day break for employees who normally do not work on Saturdays and Sundays.

Islamic Public Holidays in Burundi

Burundi officially recognizes Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as public holidays. Both celebrations follow the Islamic Hijri calendar, so their Gregorian dates change from year to year.

Eid al-Fitr (Aid-El-Fithr)

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. It is an important religious occasion for Muslim communities and is traditionally celebrated through communal prayers, family gatherings and charitable activities.

Major 2026 holiday calendars list Eid al-Fitr on Friday, 20 March. However, a direct year-specific announcement from the competent Burundian authority was not independently established in the available source review.

The holiday itself is legally recognized under Presidential Decree No. 100/150, but its 2026 calendar date should be distinguished from the permanent legal recognition of the occasion.

Eid al-Adha (Aid-El-Hadj)

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the Islamic tradition of Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

The festival takes place during the Islamic pilgrimage season and is associated with religious prayers, charitable giving and gatherings with family and community members.

Published 2026 calendars list Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, 27 May. The holiday is legally recognized nationwide, but direct confirmation of the year-specific date from an authoritative Burundian announcement was not independently located.

How Are Islamic Holiday Dates Confirmed in Burundi?

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha follow the Islamic lunar calendar. Their Gregorian dates may depend on moon-sighting procedures, religious decisions or official announcements.

Advance calendars can provide useful planning estimates, but an estimated date should not automatically be presented as an officially confirmed date.

For 2026, published holiday providers agree on 20 March for Eid al-Fitr and 27 May for Eid al-Adha. These dates should nevertheless be distinguished from direct government confirmation when maintaining an authoritative public holiday database.

Are Public Holidays Paid in Burundi?

Yes. Burundi's Presidential Decree No. 100/150 of 7 June 2021 establishes nationally recognized public holidays as paid, non-working days under the applicable legal framework.

Article 2 provides that recognized holidays must not result in reductions to daily, weekly or monthly wages. Workers paid by the hour, day or output are entitled to compensation equivalent to what they would ordinarily have earned.

Employees required to work on a recognized public holiday are entitled to their normal pay together with compensation for the work performed, including the applicable overtime increase.

The detailed treatment of holiday work should be assessed under the decree, Burundi's Labour Code and the applicable employment arrangements.

Does Burundi Provide Substitute Public Holidays?

Yes. Burundi has a statutory rule addressing public holidays that fall on Sundays.

Article 4 of Presidential Decree No. 100/150 provides that when observing a listed public holiday on Sunday is considered inappropriate, the holiday is transferred to the next working day, which is then treated as a public holiday.

In 2026, All Saints' Day falls on Sunday, 1 November. The observed holiday therefore falls on Monday, 2 November.

This rule should not be extended automatically to holidays falling on Saturdays. The decree specifically addresses Sunday holidays, and additional public holidays require an applicable legal declaration.

Can Burundi Declare Additional Public Holidays?

Yes. Article 3 of Burundi's presidential public holiday decree permits additional holidays to be declared through a separate decree.

This means the legally established annual holiday list can be supplemented by a subsequent government decision. However, an additional day should not be treated as a confirmed nationwide public holiday until the appropriate official declaration exists.

For the 2026 schedule presented here, no unverified election holidays, regional celebrations or exceptional closure dates have been added.

Long Weekends in Burundi in 2026

Several public holidays in 2026 create opportunities for extended breaks, particularly for employees who normally work Monday to Friday.

• Eid al-Fitr: Friday, 20 March, would create a three-day weekend through Sunday, 22 March, if the listed religious date applies.
• International Labour Day: Friday, 1 May, creates a three-day weekend through Sunday, 3 May.
• National Patriotism Day: Monday, 8 June, creates a three-day weekend beginning Saturday, 6 June.
• All Saints' Day (Observed): Monday, 2 November, creates a three-day weekend beginning Saturday, 31 October.
• Christmas Day: Friday, 25 December, creates a three-day weekend through Sunday, 27 December.

Ascension Day falls on Thursday, 14 May. Employees with available annual leave could consider taking Friday, 15 May, to extend their break, but that additional Friday is not itself an automatically declared public holiday.

These examples assume a Saturday-Sunday weekend. Employees working on Saturdays or under rotating schedules may have different arrangements.

Are Banks and Government Offices Closed on Public Holidays?

Nationwide public holidays generally affect ordinary government office operations, although essential services and specially authorized activities may continue.

Banks may also close branches or adjust operating hours during official holidays. Customers should consult the relevant financial institution before arranging time-sensitive transactions or in-person visits.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation publishes information about Burundi's official holidays, including fixed dates and religious observances.

Bank-specific announcements should be checked separately rather than assuming that every institution follows identical operating arrangements.

Are Schools and Businesses Closed on Public Holidays?

Recognized nationwide public holidays generally affect government institutions and ordinary school activities. However, school calendars, examinations and additional educational closures may be governed by separate institutional schedules.

Private businesses may operate under different arrangements depending on employment rules and the nature of their services.

Healthcare, transport, hospitality and other essential or continuously operating services may continue working during public holidays, subject to applicable labour requirements.

Students, employees and visitors should verify opening hours or institutional schedules when making arrangements that depend on a particular closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the next public holiday in Burundi?

The next public holiday depends on the current date. The Next Public Holiday in Burundi section near the top of this page displays the upcoming holiday using the VisaBoards public holiday database.

How many public holidays are there in Burundi in 2026?

Burundi recognizes 14 nationwide public holiday categories under Presidential Decree No. 100/150 of 7 June 2021. The 2026 schedule includes fixed holidays, Ascension Day, two Islamic festivals and the observed All Saints' Day holiday. The Islamic dates require appropriate year-specific confirmation.

What is Burundi's country code?

Burundi's ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 country code is BI. This code is used in international country identification systems and structured public holiday databases.

When is Burundi Independence Day in 2026?

Independence Day falls on Wednesday, 1 July 2026. The national holiday commemorates Burundi's independence from Belgian administration on 1 July 1962.

Is National Unity Day a public holiday in Burundi?

Yes. National Unity and Reconciliation Day is an official public holiday observed on 5 February. It commemorates the 1991 Charter of National Unity and recognizes the importance of national reconciliation.

When is Ascension Day in Burundi in 2026?

Ascension Day falls on Thursday, 14 May 2026. It is a legally recognized nationwide public holiday whose date follows the Christian Easter calendar.

When is Eid al-Fitr in Burundi in 2026?

Published 2026 holiday calendars list Eid al-Fitr on Friday, 20 March. The celebration is legally recognized as a public holiday, although a direct year-specific announcement from the competent Burundian authority was not independently established in the available review.

When is Eid al-Adha in Burundi in 2026?

Published 2026 holiday calendars list Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, 27 May. The holiday is recognized under Burundi's presidential decree, but the exact date should be distinguished from direct official confirmation.

Does Burundi provide a substitute holiday when a public holiday falls on Sunday?

Yes. Article 4 of Presidential Decree No. 100/150 establishes a Sunday substitution rule. In 2026, All Saints' Day falls on Sunday, 1 November, and is observed on Monday, 2 November.

Are public holidays paid in Burundi?

Yes. Burundi's public holiday decree provides protections against reductions in wages for recognized paid holidays. Article 2 also establishes compensation provisions for workers who perform duties on a public holiday.

Official Sources for Public Holidays in Burundi

• Presidency of Burundi: Presidential Decree No. 100/150 of 7 June 2021, establishing the recognized holidays, paid-holiday protections and Sunday substitution rules.
• Burundi Legal Information Database: Decree No. 100/150, providing the legal record and identifying the decree as in force.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation: Official Holidays, listing nationally recognized holidays and identifying variable religious observances.