Guyana Public Holidays 2026

New Year's Day

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Cultural Significance

New Year's Day marks the beginning of the calendar year and is celebrated universally across Guyana regardless of religious or ethnic background. It represents hope, new beginnings, and the opportunity for fresh starts. For many Guyanese, it's a time for family gatherings and reflecting on the year past while setting goals for the year ahead.

How It's Celebrated

Celebrations begin on New Year's Eve with parties, fireworks, and the traditional "Old Year's Night" festivities. Families gather for meals featuring traditional dishes. Many attend church services or visit relatives. The seawall in Georgetown becomes a popular gathering spot for fireworks viewing. "First footing" traditions see visitors bringing gifts to friends and family.

Republic Day (Mashramani)

Monday, February 23, 2026

Cultural Significance

Republic Day commemorates February 23, 1970, when Guyana became a republic within the Commonwealth, transitioning from a constitutional monarchy. The word "Mashramani" comes from an Amerindian word meaning "celebration after cooperative work." This holiday celebrates Guyanese unity, creativity, and national pride, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.

How It's Celebrated

Mashramani is Guyana's premier cultural festival, featuring elaborate costume parades, float competitions, calypso and soca music, steel band performances, and dancing through the streets. Communities across the country participate in the festivities which typically extend throughout February. Schools and organizations compete in various categories.

Special Event: The Grand Mashramani Parade

The main parade in Georgetown features spectacular costumes, elaborate floats, and thousands of participants. Route typically runs along Vlissengen Road to the National Park. Arrive early for the best viewing spots. Regional celebrations also take place in towns like New Amsterdam, Linden, and Bartica.

Phagwah (Holi)

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Cultural Significance

Phagwah, known globally as Holi, is the Hindu festival of colors celebrating the triumph of good over evil. It commemorates the legend of Prahlad and Holika, symbolizing the victory of devotion over tyranny. Brought to Guyana by Indian indentured laborers in the 19th century, it has become a national celebration embraced by all Guyanese regardless of religion.

How It's Celebrated

Celebrations begin the night before with Holika Dahan, the ritual bonfire representing the burning of evil. On Phagwah day, people take to the streets throwing colored powder (abeer/abir) and colored water (phagwah water) at each other. Traditional foods like gulgula (sweet fried dough), pholourie, and parsad are prepared. Music, dancing, and joyful gatherings define the day.

Special Event: National Phagwah Celebrations

The largest celebrations occur at the National Park in Georgetown and at the Mandir in various communities. Wear white clothes (they will get colorful!) and expect to get thoroughly doused with colors. Many Hindu organizations host community events with cultural programs and traditional foods.

Eid ul-Fitr

Friday, March 20, 2026 Tentative

Cultural Significance

Eid ul-Fitr, meaning "Festival of Breaking the Fast," marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It celebrates spiritual renewal, charitable giving (Zakat al-Fitr), and gratitude to Allah. For Guyana's Muslim community, it is one of the most important religious celebrations, brought to the country by Indian and African Muslims.

How It's Celebrated

The day begins with special Eid prayers at mosques and open grounds across the country. Muslims dress in their finest clothes, often new outfits purchased for the occasion. Families gather for festive meals featuring sawine (vermicelli pudding), curry, roti, and sweet dishes. Gifts and money (Eidi) are given to children. Visiting relatives and friends is central to the celebration.

Good Friday

Friday, April 3, 2026

Cultural Significance

Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is the most solemn day in the Christian calendar, observed with fasting, prayer, and reflection on Christ's sacrifice. In Guyana, where Christianity has deep roots from colonial times, it is widely observed across denominations.

How It's Observed

Churches hold special services including Stations of the Cross, three-hour services from noon to 3 PM (marking the hours Christ hung on the cross), and passion plays. Many Christians fast or abstain from meat, eating fish instead. The day is marked by quiet reflection rather than celebration. Hot cross buns are a traditional food.

Easter Monday

Monday, April 6, 2026

Cultural Significance

Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While Easter Sunday is the religious centerpiece, Easter Monday has evolved in Guyana into a day of family activities and outdoor recreation. The kite-flying tradition is uniquely Guyanese, with origins debated but beloved by all.

How It's Celebrated

Easter Monday in Guyana is synonymous with kite flying! The skies fill with colorful kites of all shapes and sizes. Families head to the seawall, National Park, open fields, and beaches. Traditional kites are handmade from tissue paper and bamboo. Picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings complement the kite flying. Many enjoy Easter eggs and traditional foods.

Special Event: Easter Kite Flying

The seawall from Georgetown to the East Coast is THE place to be for kite flying. Expect crowds, food vendors, and spectacular displays of kites. Many families spend weeks preparing elaborate kites. Some say kites symbolize Christ rising to heaven; others trace the tradition to Chinese immigrants or African heritage. Whatever the origin, it's quintessentially Guyanese!

Labour Day

Friday, May 1, 2026

Cultural Significance

Labour Day, also known as International Workers' Day, honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement's achievements in securing workers' rights. In Guyana, it has special significance given the country's history of labor activism, from the struggles of indentured laborers to the formation of trade unions and workers' movements.

How It's Celebrated

Trade unions organize rallies, marches, and public meetings. The Guyana Trades Union Congress and various labor organizations hold events highlighting workers' issues and achievements. Politicians and labor leaders deliver speeches. Many workers enjoy the day off with family activities and barbecues.

Arrival Day

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Cultural Significance

Arrival Day commemorates the arrival of the first Indian indentured laborers to British Guiana on May 5, 1838, aboard the ships Whitby and Hesperus. These workers came after the abolition of slavery to work on sugar plantations. Their arrival began an immigration that would profoundly shape Guyana's culture, demographics, cuisine, and national identity.

How It's Celebrated

Ceremonies are held at the Arrival Day Monument at Palmyra, East Berbice, and at various locations across the country. Cultural programs feature Indian classical and folk music, dance performances, and exhibitions. Traditional foods like curry, roti, dal, and sweets are prepared. The day honors the hardships and contributions of Indian ancestors.

Independence Day

Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Cultural Significance

Independence Day marks Guyana's independence from British colonial rule on May 26, 1966. After over 150 years as British Guiana, the nation became the independent state of Guyana under Prime Minister Forbes Burnham. The Golden Arrowhead flag was raised for the first time, and the country embarked on its journey as a sovereign nation.

How It's Celebrated

The day begins with flag-raising ceremonies across the country, with the main event at the National Park in Georgetown. The President delivers a national address. Cultural performances, military parades, and civic ceremonies take place. Schools and organizations prepare special programs. Many families celebrate with barbecues and gatherings while displaying the national colors.

Special Event: Independence Day Celebrations

The National Park hosts the main celebration with military and police parades, cultural performances, and addresses by dignitaries. Expect road closures in central Georgetown. The evening may feature concerts and fireworks. In 2026, Guyana celebrates 60 years of independence - expect enhanced celebrations!

Eid ul-Adha

Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Tentative

Cultural Significance

Eid ul-Adha, the "Festival of Sacrifice," is the holier of the two Eid celebrations. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, who provided a ram instead. The festival coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and emphasizes themes of faith, sacrifice, and charity.

How It's Celebrated

Muslims perform Eid prayers at mosques and prayer grounds. The Qurbani (sacrifice) of livestock - typically goat, sheep, or cattle - is performed, with the meat divided into thirds: one for family, one for friends/neighbors, and one for the poor. Festive meals bring families together. New clothes are worn, and gifts exchanged. Community gatherings and feasts follow prayers.

CARICOM Day

Monday, July 6, 2026

Cultural Significance

CARICOM Day celebrates the founding of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) on July 4, 1973, with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas. Guyana is a founding member and hosts the CARICOM Secretariat in Georgetown. The holiday honors Caribbean unity, cooperation, and the shared goals of regional integration.

How It's Celebrated

Official ceremonies are held at the CARICOM Secretariat in Georgetown. Educational programs highlight regional cooperation and the benefits of Caribbean integration. Cultural events may showcase the diverse traditions of CARICOM member states. For most Guyanese, it's a day for relaxation and family time.

Emancipation Day

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Cultural Significance

Emancipation Day commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Empire on August 1, 1834. In British Guiana, over 100,000 enslaved Africans were freed on this date. The holiday honors the struggles, resilience, and contributions of African ancestors and celebrates the triumph of freedom over bondage. It's a day of remembrance, reflection, and celebration of African heritage.

How It's Celebrated

The day begins with ceremonies at the 1823 Monument in Georgetown, honoring the Demerara Rebellion. African cultural organizations host events featuring traditional music, drumming, dance, and storytelling. Many wear African attire and colors (red, gold, green, black). Educational programs highlight African history and contributions. The African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) organizes major events.

Special Event: Emancipation Celebrations

Major celebrations occur at the 1823 Monument, Parade Ground, and communities throughout the country. Expect African drumming, cultural performances, and commemorative speeches. Village celebrations in traditional African-descended communities like Buxton, Linden, and Victoria are particularly vibrant.

Youman Nabi (Mawlid)

Sunday, September 6, 2026 Tentative

Cultural Significance

Youman Nabi, also known as Mawlid or Milad-un-Nabi, celebrates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). While observance varies among Muslim communities, in Guyana it is widely celebrated as an opportunity to reflect on the Prophet's life, teachings, and the values of Islam. The holiday strengthens community bonds and religious devotion.

How It's Celebrated

Mosques hold special programs featuring recitation of the Quran, religious lectures about the Prophet's life, and nasheed (Islamic songs). Many Muslims fast on this day. Community gatherings share meals and sweets. Some organize processions and public events. The emphasis is on religious education and spiritual reflection.

Diwali (Deepavali)

Sunday, November 8, 2026

Cultural Significance

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu celebrations. It commemorates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. The lighting of diyas (clay lamps) symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. In Guyana, it's celebrated across communities.

How It's Celebrated

Homes and temples are cleaned and decorated with rangoli (decorative patterns) and strings of lights. Thousands of diyas are lit at dusk, creating a magical atmosphere. Prayers are offered to Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and prosperity. Families prepare elaborate meals and sweets like mithai, gulab jamun, and parsad. Fireworks light up the night sky. New clothes are worn, and gifts exchanged.

Special Event: Diwali Motorcade

The spectacular Diwali Motorcade, organized by Hindu organizations, features elaborately decorated and illuminated floats parading through Georgetown. The route typically runs through major streets, drawing huge crowds. Temples throughout the country host special puja ceremonies and community celebrations.

Christmas Day

Friday, December 25, 2026

Cultural Significance

Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is the most widely observed holiday in Guyana. While rooted in Christian tradition, Christmas in Guyana has evolved into a cultural celebration embraced by people of all faiths. It's a time for family reunions, gift-giving, and generous hospitality that reflects the warmth of Guyanese culture.

How It's Celebrated

Preparations begin weeks in advance with home cleaning, decorating, and baking. Traditional foods include pepperpot (the iconic Amerindian dish), garlic pork, black cake (rum-soaked fruit cake), ginger beer, and sorrel drink. Churches hold midnight mass and Christmas morning services. Families gather for elaborate meals. Caroling and Christmas songs fill the air. Gift-giving and visiting friends and family are central traditions.

Special Tradition: Pepperpot

No Guyanese Christmas is complete without pepperpot, a rich, dark meat stew made with cassareep (cassava-based sauce). Traditionally started days before Christmas, it's served with fresh bread. The dish has Amerindian origins and represents the blending of cultures that defines Guyanese cuisine.

Boxing Day

Saturday, December 26, 2026

Cultural Significance

Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, has British colonial origins. Traditionally, it was when servants and tradespeople received gifts (Christmas "boxes") from employers. In Guyana, it extends the Christmas celebration, providing another day for family gatherings, visiting, and enjoying leftover Christmas foods.

How It's Celebrated

Boxing Day continues the festive atmosphere of Christmas. Families visit relatives they couldn't see on Christmas Day. Leftover pepperpot (which actually improves with reheating!) and other Christmas foods are enjoyed. Many attend cricket matches or sports events. Some communities organize fairs and entertainment. It's a relaxed day of extended celebration.