Public Holidays in Comoros 2026 – Islamic & National Holidays
Comoros, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, celebrates a blend of public holidays rooted in its Islamic faith and national history. Most official holidays follow the Islamic lunar calendar, while others mark milestones in the country’s independence and cultural unity. Many residents and visitors use these holidays to explore destinations listed in places to visit in Comoros or enjoy leisure stays at the best hotels in Comoros.
Overview of Public Holidays in Comoros
Public holidays in Comoros reflect its predominantly Muslim population, alongside key national commemorations. The most important observances include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Independence Day. Because Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings, exact dates vary yearly. During official holidays, schools, offices, and government institutions close nationwide.
List of Public Holidays in Comoros (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Celebrates the start of the Gregorian year. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan Festival) | March 20 – March 22 * | Friday – Sunday * | Marks the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasting, and charity. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Honors the contributions of workers across Comoros. |
| Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) | May 27 – May 30 * | Wednesday – Saturday * | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God. |
| Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) | June 16 * | Tuesday * | Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. |
| Independence Day | July 6 | Monday | Marks Comoros’s independence from France in 1975. |
| Maulid al-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) | August 26 * | Wednesday * | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| Christmas Day (Observed) | December 25 | Friday | Recognized nationally to respect religious diversity. |
* Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar and may vary by one or two days depending on moon sightings.
List of Public Holidays in Comoros (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the Gregorian year. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan Festival) | March 31 – April 2 * | Monday – Wednesday * | Marks the end of Ramadan. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Honors workers across Comoros. |
| Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) | June 7 – June 10 * | Saturday – Tuesday * | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion. |
| Independence Day | July 6 | Sunday | Celebrates independence from France. |
| Islamic New Year | June 27 * | Friday * | Marks the Islamic lunar new year. |
| Maulid al-Nabi | September 6 * | Saturday * | Celebrates the Prophet’s birthday. |
| Christmas Day (Observed) | December 25 | Thursday | Recognized nationally. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Comoros’s public holidays primarily revolve around Islam, reflecting the nation’s deep spiritual identity. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the largest celebrations, marked by communal prayers, feasting, and charitable giving. Independence Day symbolizes national unity and pride, with parades, music, and traditional dances across Moroni and other islands.
Public Observances and Closures
During official holidays, government offices, banks, and schools close. Islamic holidays begin with early morning prayers (Salat al-Eid), followed by family visits and special meals featuring rice, meat, and coconut-based dishes that reflect Comorian cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Comoros have in 2026?
Comoros observes approximately 8 to 10 public holidays in 2026, depending on the Islamic lunar calendar.
When is Independence Day in Comoros?
Independence Day is celebrated annually on July 6.
Does Comoros celebrate Islamic holidays?
Yes. Major Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Maulid al-Nabi are observed as national holidays.
Is Christmas a holiday in Comoros?
Although Comoros is a Muslim-majority nation, Christmas Day is officially recognized to promote inclusivity.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Comoros reflect a balance between faith and national identity. From the spiritual observances of Eid to the patriotic celebrations of Independence Day, these holidays unite the islands in shared values, peace, and tradition.
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