St. Helena Public Holidays 2025
St. Helena has 9 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 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | observance |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Queen's Birthday | public |
| 21 May | Wed | Saint Helena Day | public |
| 9 Jun | Mon | Whit Monday | public |
| 25 Aug | Mon | August Bank Holiday | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
About St. Helena's Holidays
St Helena’s holidays mix British public days with local island traditions. People observe the usual religious holidays like Easter and Christmas, plus bank and royal holidays. These bring church services, family meals, and time off work for the whole community.
Local national and cultural events mark the island’s history and identity. There is a special island day to celebrate St Helena itself, remembrance events for those who served, and informal festivals with music, food, and parades. Holidays are times for neighbours to gather, share stories, and celebrate life on this small, close knit island.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays on St Helena are warm and close knit. People go to church, sing in choirs, and join community music. Small parades and local bands bring neighbors together. The mood feels friendly and relaxed on the island.
Families cook big meals and share food. Roasted meat, fresh fish, coconut dishes, puddings, and homemade breads are common. People bring plates to share so everyone can taste many dishes. Picnics and barbecues on the shore are popular when the weather is good.
Public celebrations include markets, craft stalls, speeches, and simple fireworks. Children play games and older people tell stories. Traditions mix British, African, and island customs, giving each event a unique St Helena flavor.
Travel Tips
Visiting St. Helena (SH) in the holiday season means some government offices, banks, shops and attractions close on major days. Plan for limited services on those dates and expect fewer opening hours around holidays.
Transport can be affected. The airport and boat schedules may change or fill up early. Book flights and the RMS or passenger ships well in advance, and confirm times before travel since changes happen.
The island gets busier before and after holidays. Popular restaurants and tours can be full. Arrive early for activities and reserve car hire or guides ahead to avoid disappointment.
Carry cash plus card, pack layers for variable weather, and have printed copies of bookings. Keep flexible plans for closures and transport disruptions.