Republic of Equatorial Guinea Public Holidays 2025
Republic of Equatorial Guinea has 12 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 |
18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
5 Jun | Thu | President's Day | public |
19 Jun | Thu | Corpus Christi | public |
3 Aug | Sun | Armed Forces Day | public |
4 Aug | Mon | Armed Forces Day (substitute day) | public |
15 Aug | Fri | Constitution Day | public |
12 Oct | Sun | Independence Day | public |
13 Oct | Mon | Independence Day (substitute day) | public |
8 Dec | Mon | Immaculate Conception | public |
25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
About Republic of Equatorial Guinea's Holidays
Equatorial Guinea marks a few big national holidays that bring the country together. The most important is Independence Day on October 12. Public holidays also follow global patterns like New Year, Labour Day on May 1, and Christmas.
Religion shapes many public days. Good Friday and Easter are observed by the mainly Christian population. These religious dates, together with national ceremonies, create time for family, parades, and official speeches. Local cultural festivals and village rituals also happen but vary by region and ethnic group, adding color and tradition to the national calendar.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in Equatorial Guinea mix local Fang and Bubi traditions with Spanish influences. Families dress nicely and visit church or local shrines. People greet each other warmly, exchange small gifts, and remember ancestors with songs and dancing around the community.
Food is central. Large shared meals feature fish, grilled meat, cassava, plantains, rice and soups flavored with palm oil and spices. Neighbors bring dishes to share. Palm wine or juice may be poured for toasts. Children enjoy sweets and special treats made for the day.
Public celebrations include parades, drumming, traditional dances and colorful costumes. Towns display flags, hold speeches and sometimes fireworks. These events blend joy, faith and community pride while showing cultural music, crafts and storytelling for everyone to enjoy.
Travel Tips
Holiday season means many shops, banks, and government offices in Equatorial Guinea close or have short hours. Some local markets and restaurants stay open, but plan for limited services and bring needed medicines.
Public transport and ferries often run less frequently and can be full. Flights to Malabo and Bata fill up fast. Taxis work but prices may rise and waits can be long.
Busy times include evenings and main holiday days when celebrations and noise are common. ATMs and clinics may be scarce outside big cities, so carry cash and copies of important documents.
Book flights and hotels early, check airline and ferry schedules, and keep emergency numbers. Respect local customs during celebrations and expect friendly crowds.