Guadeloupe Public Holidays 2026
Guadeloupe has 13 public holidays and 2 observances in 2026. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu | New Year's Day | public | |
| Fri | Good Friday | public | |
| Mon | Easter Monday | public | |
| Fri | Labour Day | public | |
| Fri | Victory Day | public | |
| Thu | Ascension Day | public | |
| Mon | Whit Monday | public | |
| Wed | Abolition of Slavery | public | |
| Sun | Mother's Day | observance | |
| Tue | Bastille Day | public | |
| Tue | Victor Schoelcher Day | optional | |
| Sat | Assumption | public | |
| Sun | All Saints' Day | public | |
| Wed | Armistice Day | public | |
| Fri | Christmas Day | public |
About Guadeloupe's Holidays
Guadeloupe follows French national and public holidays, so big dates like Bastille Day and Labour Day are official and widely observed. Many days come from the Catholic calendar, so Easter and Christmas shape family and church life across the islands.
Beyond French dates, local culture shines through Carnival and Creole festivals. Carnival is the liveliest season with parades, masks, music and street dancing before Lent. Creole music, food and community events mark other celebrations and keep island traditions alive for both residents and visitors.
A key local public holiday remembers the end of slavery. May 27 is commemorated with ceremonies, education and cultural events. Holidays mix French state rites with strong Afro Caribbean and Creole cultural expressions.
Holiday Traditions
In Guadeloupe people celebrate with loud music, dancing, and bright costumes. Streets fill with parades and masquerade bands. Traditional drums called gwo ka set a strong beat. Families join in singing biguine and zouk songs all day and night.
Food is central. Tables hold seafood, accras fritters, boudin sausages, stews, and sweet desserts. People cook together and share meals, often with ti punch or fruit juices. Religious services and processions mix with public parties, and markets sell local produce and crafts for everyone to enjoy.
Travel Tips
Travelers should know many shops, banks and government offices close on holiday days. Tourist areas often keep restaurants and hotels open, but small stores and services may shut. Plan around limited opening hours to avoid surprises.
Expect buses and some ferries to run less often and to be crowded. Flights into the main island get busy around the season. Car rentals and taxis are in high demand and prices can rise, so book transport early.
Useful tips: reserve flights, ferries and cars well ahead. Carry some cash because small vendors may not take cards. Check local schedules and hotel notices for closures. Be flexible and allow extra time for travel and lines.