Public Holidays in Guyana 2025 – National & Religious Calendar
Guyana observes a diverse set of public holidays encompassing national, Christian, Hindu, and Islamic traditions. On these dates, many public offices, banks, schools, and businesses close across the country. Some holidays shift when they fall on Sundays, and extra “in lieu” days may be declared.
Overview of Public Holidays in Guyana
Guyana’s holiday calendar reflects its multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. You’ll find Christian observances (Good Friday, Easter Monday, Christmas), Hindu festivals (Phagwah, Deepavali), and Islamic celebrations (Eid al-Adha, Youman-Nabi). National dates like Republic Day, Independence Day, and Emancipation Day also hold importance. Some holidays are moved if they fall on Sundays, with “in lieu” days observed.
List of Public Holidays in Guyana (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Standard Gregorian New Year holiday |
| Republic Day / Mashramani | February 23 | Sunday | In 2025, Monday Feb 24 is observed as an in-lieu holiday |
| Phagwah (Holi) | March 14 | Friday | Hindu spring festival of colors |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian observance before Easter |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Christian holiday after Easter |
| Labour Day / May Day | May 1 | Thursday | International Workers’ Day |
| Arrival Day (Indian Arrival) | May 5 | Monday | Commemorates arrival of indentured labourers |
| Independence Day | May 26 | Monday | Independence from the UK in 1966 |
| Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) | June 6 / 7 | Friday / Saturday | Islamic festival (date may vary by lunar sighting) |
| CARICOM Day | July 7 | Monday | Celebrates regional CARICOM integration |
| Emancipation Day | August 1 | Friday | Marks the abolition of slavery |
| Election Day Public Holiday | September 1 | Monday | Declared for general/regional elections |
| Youman-Nabi (Mawlid) | September 5 | Friday | Commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday |
| Deepavali / Diwali | October 20 | Monday | Hindu Festival of Lights |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Friday | Second day of Christmas |
Note: When a holiday falls on a Sunday (e.g., Republic Day on Feb 23, 2025), the following Monday (Feb 24) is usually observed as a holiday “in lieu.”
Public Observance & Closures
On public holidays, government offices, schools, banks, and many businesses close across Guyana. Where a holiday falls on a Sunday, a substitution (“in lieu”) Monday is often declared.
Religious & Cultural Significance
Guyana’s holidays reflect its multicultural heritage. Christian holidays like Good Friday, Easter, and Christmas are widely observed. Hindu festivals—Phagwah and Deepavali—are celebrated by the Hindu community. Islamic observances such as Eid al-Adha and Youman-Nabi are observed by the Muslim population. Meanwhile, national days like Republic Day (Mashramani), Independence Day, Emancipation Day, and Arrival Day mark pivotal moments in national history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Guyana have in 2025?
Guyana has around 16 statutory public holidays in 2025.
Does Guyana shift holidays that fall on Sunday?
Yes. For example, Republic Day on February 23, 2025 falls on Sunday; the following Monday (February 24) is observed as a holiday in lieu.
What is Mashramani / Republic Day?
Mashramani is Guyana’s festival celebrating the founding of the Republic on February 23, 1970. It features parades, music, cultural performances, and public celebrations.
Which non-Christian festivals are public holidays in Guyana?
Guyana also observes Hindu and Islamic holidays: Phagwah (Holi), Deepavali (Diwali), Eid al-Adha, and Youman-Nabi (Prophet’s Birthday).
Conclusion
Public holidays in Guyana capture the nation’s blend of faiths, history, and cultural identity. Whether celebrating Republic Day, observing Holi or Diwali, commemorating independence, or marking Christian or Islamic observances, these holidays form the rhythm of public and communal life across the country.
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