Public Holidays in Ethiopia 2026 – Orthodox, National & Public Holidays
Ethiopia observes a mix of national, religious (Orthodox Christian & Islamic), and cultural holidays. These holidays reflect Ethiopia’s deep Orthodox heritage, its multi-faith society, and important historical milestones. Government offices, schools, and many businesses close on these days. Some Islamic holidays shift annually based on moon sightings.
Overview of Public Holidays in Ethiopia
Many public holidays in Ethiopia align with the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church calendar (e.g. Christmas, Easter, Epiphany). Others are national commemorations like Victory of Adwa, Derg Downfall, and Patriots’ Victory Day. Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are also observed based on the lunar calendar.
List of Public Holidays in Ethiopia (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Remarks / Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) | January 7 | Wednesday | Orthodox Christian Christmas. |
| Epiphany / Timkat | January 19 | Monday | Baptism of Jesus (Orthodox). |
| Victory of Adwa | March 2 | Monday | Defeat of Italian forces in 1896. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Tentative) | March 20* | Friday* | End of Ramadan (Islamic). |
| Good Friday (Siklet) | April 3 | Friday | Orthodox Christian observance. |
| Easter (Fasika) | April 5 | Sunday | Orthodox Easter celebration. |
| International Labor Day | May 1 | Friday | Workers’ Day. |
| Patriots’ Victory Day | May 5 | Tuesday | Return of Haile Selassie in 1941. |
| Downfall of the Derg | May 28 | Thursday | End of Derg regime (1991). |
| Eid al-Adha (Tentative) | May 27* | Wednesday* | Islamic Feast of Sacrifice. |
| Mawlid (Prophet’s Birthday) | August 25* | Tuesday* | Birth of Prophet Muhammad. |
| Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) | September 11 | Friday | New Year in Ethiopian calendar. |
| Meskel | September 27 | Sunday | Finding of the True Cross. |
| Defense Day | October 26 | Monday | Establishment of Ethiopian Defense Force. |
| Christmas (Gregorian) | December 25 | Friday | International Christmas holiday. |
* Islamic dates are approximate and depend on moon sighting.
List of Public Holidays in Ethiopia (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) | January 7 | Tuesday | Orthodox Christian Christmas. |
| Epiphany / Timkat | January 19 | Sunday | Baptism of Jesus (Orthodox). |
| Victory of Adwa | March 2 | Sunday | Defeat of Italian forces in 1896. |
| Eid al-Fitr (Tentative) | March 20 / 31 | Thu / Mon | End of Ramadan. |
| Good Friday (Siklet) | April 18 | Friday | Orthodox observance. |
| Easter (Fasika) | April 20 | Sunday | Orthodox Easter. |
| International Labor Day | May 1 | Thursday | Workers’ Day. |
| Patriots’ Victory Day | May 5 | Monday | Return of Haile Selassie. |
| Downfall of the Derg | May 28 | Wednesday | End of Derg regime. |
| Eid al-Adha (Tentative) | June 6 / 7 | Fri / Sat | Islamic Feast of Sacrifice. |
| Mawlid (Prophet’s Birthday) | September 5 | Friday | Birth of Prophet Muhammad. |
| Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) | September 11 | Thursday | Ethiopian calendar New Year. |
| Meskel | September 27 | Saturday | Finding of the True Cross. |
| Defense Day | October 26 | Sunday | Defense Forces anniversary. |
| Christmas (Gregorian) | December 25 | Thursday | International Christmas. |
Religious & Cultural Significance
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church shapes many holidays: Genna, Timkat, Fasika, and Meskel hold deep spiritual meaning. Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha reflect Ethiopia’s long-standing Muslim communities. National commemorations like Victory of Adwa and Patriots’ Victory Day symbolize resistance, unity, and sovereignty.
Public Observances & Closures
On public holidays, government offices, schools, banks, and many businesses close nationwide. Addis Ababa and other cities host parades, religious processions, and public gatherings. Islamic holiday dates may vary slightly depending on moon sightings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Ethiopia observe each year?
Ethiopia typically observes around 14–16 national public holidays annually, depending on lunar Islamic observances.
Do Islamic holidays change every year?
Yes. Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Mawlid follow the lunar calendar and shift each year.
What is Victory of Adwa Day?
Victory of Adwa (March 2) commemorates Ethiopia’s historic victory over Italian forces in 1896, preserving national independence.
What does Meskel celebrate?
Meskel celebrates the discovery of the True Cross and is one of the most important Orthodox Christian festivals in Ethiopia.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Ethiopia reflect a rich blend of Orthodox Christianity, Islamic tradition, and historic national pride. From religious feasts to landmark victories, these holidays define Ethiopia’s cultural and civic rhythm.
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