Gabon Public Holidays 2025
Gabon has 11 public holidays and 0 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 30 Mar | Sun | End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) | public |
| 17 Apr | Thu | Women's Day | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) | public |
| 9 Jun | Mon | Whit Monday | public |
| 15 Aug | Fri | Assumption | public |
| 16 Aug | Sat | Independence Day | public |
| 1 Nov | Sat | All Saints' Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
About Gabon's Holidays
Gabon mixes national, public, and cultural holidays. The most important are state holidays like Independence Day on August 17 and Labour Day on May 1. Public holidays also follow the Christian calendar with Christmas and Easter related days, and Islamic holidays such as Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha.
Beyond official days off, Gabon celebrates local and cultural festivals tied to ethnic traditions, music and dance. These events vary by region and bring communities together with ceremonies, food and performances. Together, national, religious and cultural holidays shape Gabonese public life and yearly rhythms.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in Gabon are warm and lively. Families meet to share food, laugh, and remember history. Meals often include fish, cassava, plantains, spicy sauces, grilled meat, and palm wine. Food brings everyone together and shows local flavors.
People celebrate with music, drumming, and dancing. Traditional dances and colorful masks appear at some events. In towns there are parades, speeches, and flag ceremonies. Many people go to church or gather for community prayers.
Children play, elders tell stories, and crafts are sold in markets. Public celebrations mix modern and ancient customs. The mood is friendly and proud, with a strong sense of family and community.
Travel Tips
Gabon (GA) closes many government offices, banks, and some shops during the holiday season. Supermarkets and hotels stay open, but hours can be shorter. Plan for limited official services on holiday dates.
Flights and long distance buses can be reduced and more expensive around holidays. Taxis run in cities but expect more traffic, especially in Libreville. Ferry and rural transport may be less reliable at peak times.
Hotels and popular beaches fill up for Christmas and New Year. Book flights, rooms, and tours early. Carry enough cash because ATMs may be empty or closed on holidays.
Check your embassy information, carry basic medicines, and keep copies of important documents. Confirm opening hours before traveling to avoid surprises.