Public Holidays in São Tomé and Príncipe 2026 – National & Public Holidays
São Tomé and Príncipe observes several national public holidays each year, combining historical, civic, and religious observances. Many of these holidays reflect the country’s struggle for independence and post-colonial identity.
Also explore: Public Holidays in San Marino
Public Holidays in São Tomé & Príncipe 2026
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day (Ano Novo) | First day of the year |
| February 3 | Tuesday | Martyrs’ Day (Dia dos Mártires) | Batepá massacre remembrance (1953) |
| April 3 | Friday | Good Friday | Christian observance before Easter |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day (Dia do Trabalhador) | International Workers’ Day |
| July 12 | Sunday | Independence Day (Dia da Independência) | Independence from Portugal in 1975 |
| September 6 | Sunday | Armed Forces Day | Honors the nation’s military forces |
| September 30 | Wednesday | Agricultural Reform Day (Dia da Reforma Agrária) | Marks post-independence land reform |
| December 21 | Monday | São Tomé Day (Dia de São Tomé) | Historical founding commemoration |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day (Natal) | Christian observance |
Public Holidays in São Tomé & Príncipe 2025
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day (Ano Novo) | Standard first day of year holiday |
| February 3 | Monday | Martyrs’ Day (Dia dos Mártires) | Commemorates the Batepá Massacre of 1953 |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday | Christian observance before Easter |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day (Dia do Trabalhador) | International Workers’ Day |
| July 12 | Saturday | Independence Day (Dia da Independência) | Independence from Portugal in 1975 |
| September 6 | Saturday | Armed Forces Day | Honors the nation’s military forces |
| September 30 | Tuesday | Agricultural Reform Day (Dia da Reforma Agrária) | Marks 1975 land nationalization |
| December 21 | Sunday | São Tomé Day (Dia de São Tomé) | Arrival of first Europeans in 1471 |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day (Natal) | Christian observance |
Remarks & Observance Notes
- São Tomé & Príncipe observes nine core national public holidays each year.
- Some holidays may be shifted to a weekday when they fall on weekends, subject to government notice.
- Martyrs’ Day honors victims of the 1953 Batepá massacre, a defining event in the independence movement.
- Agricultural Reform Day commemorates post-independence restructuring of plantation lands.
- Official holiday confirmations are typically issued by government decree.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays are there in São Tomé & Príncipe in 2026?
São Tomé & Príncipe observes 9 main national public holidays in 2026.
Does São Tomé & Príncipe move holidays when they fall on weekends?
Yes — substitute days may be declared by the government, though this is not automatic.
What is Martyrs’ Day?
Martyrs’ Day on February 3 commemorates the Batepá massacre of 1953, a turning point in anti-colonial resistance.
What is Agricultural Reform Day?
Agricultural Reform Day on September 30 marks the nationalization and restructuring of agricultural estates following independence.
Conclusion
Public holidays in São Tomé & Príncipe reflect the country’s historical struggle, post-independence reforms, and Christian heritage. As weekend adjustments and proclamations may vary year to year, official government announcements should always be consulted for final confirmation.
