Guinea-Bissau Public Holidays 2025
Guinea-Bissau has 10 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 |
| 20 Jan | Mon | Heroes Day | public |
| 8 Mar | Sat | International Women's Day | public |
| 30 Mar | Sun | End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) | public |
| 3 Aug | Sun | Pidjiguiti Day | public |
| 24 Sep | Wed | Independence Day | public |
| 14 Nov | Fri | Readjustment Movement Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
About Guinea-Bissau's Holidays
Guinea Bissau marks several national and public holidays that blend politics, religion, and local culture. Political holidays honor independence and national leaders, with parades, speeches, and moments to remember the struggle for freedom and unity.
Religious holidays are very important. Many people celebrate Muslim festivals such as Eid, and Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter. These bring family gatherings, prayers, and community meals across towns and villages.
Cultural events include lively carnivals, music and dance festivals, and local patron saint days. Workers day and New Year are public holidays too. Overall, holidays in Guinea Bissau mix national pride, faith, and rich local traditions enjoyed by the whole community.
Holiday Traditions
In Guinea-Bissau (gw) holidays mix African and Portuguese influences. People honor ancestors and saints with music, drumming, and colorful clothes. Religious songs and local dances are common. Many towns hold parades where everyone joins in the dancing and singing.
Family is central to celebrations. Relatives travel between islands and villages to share meals and stories. Houses fill with laughter as elders tell histories and children play. Visiting neighbors and giving small gifts shows respect and unity in the community.
Food is rich and tasty. Rice, fish, palm oil stews, cassava cakes, and spicy sauces are served. Street markets bustle and public squares host concerts, football matches, and communal feasts that bring the whole town together.
Travel Tips
Guinea-Bissau becomes quieter during the holiday season. Many government offices, banks, and small shops close on public holidays. Plan to handle money and official paperwork before holiday dates to avoid delays.
Public transport and ferries may run less often and can be crowded around major travel days. Taxis and boats are more expensive and harder to find then. Allow extra time between connections and book seats early when possible.
Markets and tourist sites may stay open but with reduced staff. Carry cash since ATMs can be empty. Keep copies of travel documents, stay aware of local announcements, and respect local customs for a smoother trip.