The Gambia Public Holidays 2025
The Gambia has 14 public holidays and 1 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 18 Feb | Tue | Independence Day | public |
| 23 Mar | Sun | Lailat al-Qadr | public |
| 30 Mar | Sun | Korité | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | observance |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 25 May | Sun | Africa Day | public |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Tabaski | public |
| 5 Jul | Sat | Day of Ashura | public |
| 22 Jul | Tue | Revolution Day | public |
| 15 Aug | Fri | Assumption | public |
| 4 Sep | Thu | Birthday of Muhammad (Mawlid) | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
About The Gambia's Holidays
The Gambia marks a mix of national, public, and cultural holidays that shape daily life and community rhythms. National holidays like Independence Day and Republic Day celebrate the nation and its history. These are days for ceremonies, speeches, and family time.
Religious holidays play the biggest role. Most Gambians are Muslim so Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha are very important and move each year with the lunar calendar. Christian holidays such as Christmas and Good Friday are also public holidays and are observed by the Christian community.
Cultural festivals and local events add color and tradition. Many towns hold music, dance, and masquerade celebrations. Public holidays can change by official announcement, especially for movable religious dates.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in The Gambia bring family and friends together. People follow religious and local customs. Celebrations mix prayer, storytelling, and wearing new clothes. Respect for elders is very important during these times.
Food is central to every celebration. Families cook big meals like rice with fish, peanut stew, and spicy sauces. Sweet treats and fruits are shared. Guests are always offered plenty to eat and drink.
Families visit relatives and exchange warm greetings. Children receive small gifts or money. Elders lead prayers and give blessings. Homes are cleaned and decorated to welcome visitors.
Public celebrations include drumming, singing, and lively dancing. Markets are busy with bright fabrics and fresh food. Community leaders often speak, and people celebrate together with joy and hospitality.
Travel Tips
During the holiday season many government offices, banks and some shops close or open for short hours. Tourist sites and hotels usually stay open. Expect fewer public services on public holidays and long weekends.
Public transport may run less often. Ferries and intercity buses can be reduced. Taxis and shared cars get busier in urban areas. Flights and airport queues rise around major holidays, so book early.
Markets and beaches are crowded on festive days and weekends. ATMs can run out of cash and small shops may only accept cash. Carry enough cash and copies of important documents.
Plan ahead. Book flights and hotels early. Check opening hours for services you need. Be respectful of local customs and keep flexible plans.