Public Holidays in Central African Republic 2026 – National & Christian Holidays
Central African Republic (CAR) celebrates a range of public holidays that reflect its Christian traditions, independence milestones, and national pride. These holidays are observed throughout the country with ceremonies, community events, and religious gatherings. Long weekends and national observances also provide opportunities to explore destinations listed in places to visit in the Central African Republic or enjoy a comfortable stay at the best hotels in the Central African Republic.
Overview of Public Holidays in Central African Republic
Public holidays in the Central African Republic include national commemorations, Christian feast days, and cultural celebrations. Christianity is the dominant religion, so holidays like Easter and Christmas play a central role, while Independence Day and Republic Day celebrate the country’s sovereignty and unity. During official holidays, schools, banks, and government offices remain closed nationwide.
List of Public Holidays in Central African Republic (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Celebrates the beginning of the Gregorian new year. |
| Anniversary of the Death of President Barthélemy Boganda | March 29 | Sunday | Honors the founding father of the nation and its first Prime Minister. |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | Christian observance marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Easter Monday | April 6 | Monday | Celebrates the resurrection of Christ; a public holiday across CAR. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Recognizes workers’ rights and labor achievements. |
| Ascension Day | May 14 | Thursday | Commemorates Christ’s ascension to heaven. |
| Whit Monday | May 25 | Monday | Marks the day after Pentecost; widely observed by Christian communities. |
| National Day / Independence Day | August 13 | Thursday | Celebrates independence from France in 1960. |
| Assumption Day | August 15 | Saturday | Honors the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Sunday | Remembers all Christian saints and martyrs. |
| Republic Day | December 1 | Tuesday | Commemorates the establishment of the Republic in 1958. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
List of Public Holidays in Central African Republic (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the beginning of the Gregorian new year. |
| Anniversary of the Death of President Barthélemy Boganda | March 29 | Saturday | Honors the founding father of the nation. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian observance marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Celebrates the resurrection of Christ. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Recognizes workers’ rights and labor achievements. |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | Commemorates Christ’s ascension to heaven. |
| Whit Monday | June 9 | Monday | Marks the day after Pentecost. |
| National Day / Independence Day | August 13 | Wednesday | Celebrates independence from France in 1960. |
| Assumption Day | August 15 | Friday | Honors the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven. |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Remembers all Christian saints and martyrs. |
| Republic Day | December 1 | Monday | Commemorates the establishment of the Republic. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
The Central African Republic’s holidays reflect both its faith and national history. Independence Day and Republic Day mark key milestones in statehood, while Good Friday, Easter, and Christmas highlight the country’s strong Christian values. The annual remembrance of President Barthélemy Boganda honors a leader associated with unity and social progress.
Public Observances and Closures
On public holidays, schools, government offices, and banks remain closed nationwide. In Bangui, official ceremonies, religious services, and cultural events take place. Many families use these holidays for rest, worship, or short domestic trips, often choosing destinations highlighted in places to visit in the Central African Republic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does the Central African Republic have in 2026?
The Central African Republic is expected to observe around 12 official public holidays in 2026, including national and Christian religious observances.
When is Independence Day celebrated in the Central African Republic?
Independence Day is celebrated on August 13, marking freedom from French colonial rule in 1960.
Who was Barthélemy Boganda?
Barthélemy Boganda was the founding father and first Prime Minister of the Central African Republic, remembered annually on March 29.
Is Christmas a public holiday in the Central African Republic?
Yes. Christmas Day on December 25 is one of the most important national and religious holidays in the country.
Conclusion
Public holidays in the Central African Republic combine faith, freedom, and national identity. From Independence Day to Easter and Christmas, these observances unite citizens and preserve the country’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
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