Public Holidays in Kiribati 2026 – National & Cultural Holidays
Kiribati observes a number of national public holidays each year, combining national, religious, and cultural observances. Some are fixed dates, while others are movable (such as Easter-related holidays). Official holiday lists are published by Kiribati government sources.
Overview of Public Holidays in Kiribati
Kiribati’s public holidays reflect its strong Christian heritage, national identity, cultural values, and social awareness. Alongside Independence celebrations, the calendar includes Gospel Day, Labour observances, Youth Day, Human Rights Day, and health- and education-related holidays. When holidays fall on weekends, additional “in-lieu” days may be observed.
List of Public Holidays in Kiribati (2026)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Remarks / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | First day of the year |
| March 6 | Friday | In Honour of International Women’s Day | Observed nationally |
| April 7 | Tuesday | National Health Day | Public health awareness observance |
| April 3 | Friday | Good Friday | Christian observance before Easter |
| April 6 | Monday | Easter Monday | Day after Easter Sunday |
| May 1 | Friday | In Honour of International Labour Day | Workers’ rights observance |
| June 23 | Tuesday | National Police Day | Honours police services |
| July 10 | Friday | Gospel Day | Christian and cultural celebration |
| July 11 | Saturday | National Culture & Senior Citizens Day | Celebrates culture and elders |
| July 12 | Sunday | National Day (Independence Day) | Kiribati’s independence from the UK |
| July 13 | Monday | In Honour of National Day (observed) | Observed as July 12 falls on Sunday |
| July 14 | Tuesday | Kiribati Special Day | Special national observance |
| August 3 | Monday | Youth Day | Recognition of youth contributions |
| October 5 | Monday | World Teachers’ Day | Observed nationally in Kiribati |
| December 10 | Thursday | Human Rights & Peace Day | Human rights and peace observance |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Christian holiday |
| December 26 | Saturday | Boxing Day | Second day of Christmas |
Long public holiday periods in 2026 are a good opportunity to explore places to visit in Kiribati or enjoy a relaxing stay at recommended hotels and resorts in Kiribati.
List of Public Holidays in Kiribati (2025)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Remarks / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | First day of the year |
| March 7 | Friday | In Honour of International Women’s Day | Observed in Kiribati |
| April 7 | Monday | National Health Day | Health observance in Kiribati |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday | Christian observance before Easter |
| April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday | Day after Easter Sunday |
| May 2 | Friday | In Honour of International Labour Day | Worker rights observance |
| June 23 | Monday | National Police Day | Celebration / observance for police services |
| July 10 | Thursday | Gospel Day | Christian / Gospel celebration |
| July 11 | Friday | National Culture & Senior Citizens Day | Honours culture and elders |
| July 12 | Saturday | National Day (Independence Day) | Kiribati’s independence (from UK) |
| July 14 | Monday | In Honour of National Day (observed) | Observed because National Day fell on a weekend |
| July 15 | Tuesday | Kiribati Special Day | Special public holiday in Kiribati |
| August 1 | Friday | Youth Day | Recognition of youth contributions |
| October 6 | Monday | World Teachers’ Day | Observed in Kiribati as public holiday |
| December 12 | Friday | Human Rights & Peace Day | Observance for human rights |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Christian holiday celebrating birth of Jesus |
| December 26 | Friday | Boxing Day | Second day of Christmas – public holiday |
Notes & Observations
- If National Day (July 12) falls on a weekend, an additional weekday is often observed in lieu.
- Several Kiribati holidays emphasize social themes such as health, education, youth, and human rights.
- Good Friday and Easter Monday follow the Christian calendar and change dates annually.
- Official holiday confirmations are published by government authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Kiribati have in 2026?
Kiribati observes around 16 to 17 public holidays in 2026, including national, religious, and cultural observances.
Is National Day always celebrated on July 12?
Yes. National Day marks Kiribati’s independence on July 12. If it falls on a weekend, an in-lieu holiday is usually granted.
Do Good Friday and Easter Monday change dates every year?
Yes. These holidays follow the Christian liturgical calendar and their dates vary each year.
Is International Women’s Day a public holiday in Kiribati?
Yes. Kiribati observes a public holiday in honour of International Women’s Day, usually in early March.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Kiribati showcase the nation’s strong Christian faith, cultural pride, and commitment to social values. From Independence celebrations to observances honoring youth, health, and human rights, these holidays play a vital role in Kiribati’s public and community life.
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