2024 Public Holidays in Eritrea

Public Holidays in Eritrea in 2024

Introduction

Eritrea, located in the Horn of Africa, observes several public holidays throughout the year. These holidays hold cultural, historical, and religious significance for the Eritrean people. In 2024, Eritrea will celebrate a variety of holidays, each with its own traditions and customs.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day – January 1st

New Year’s Day is celebrated worldwide as the first day of the Gregorian calendar year. In Eritrea, it is a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and cultural events. While it is not a religious holiday, many Eritreans may attend church services or engage in traditional rituals to mark the occasion and reflect on the year ahead.

International Women’s Day – March 8th

International Women’s Day is observed globally to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. In Eritrea, it is a day to honor women’s contributions to society and to advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. The day may be marked with rallies, marches, speeches, and other events organized by women’s groups and activists.

Liberation Day – May 24th

Liberation Day commemorates the anniversary of Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1991, following a 30-year struggle for liberation. It is one of the most important national holidays in Eritrea, celebrated with patriotic fervor and pride. The day typically features official ceremonies, military parades, cultural performances, and fireworks displays. It is a time to honor the sacrifices made by the Eritrean people during the liberation struggle and to celebrate the nation’s sovereignty and independence.

Martyrs’ Day – June 20th

Martyrs’ Day is a solemn occasion to honor the Eritrean martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence and freedom. It commemorates the anniversary of the start of the Eritrean War of Independence in 1961. On this day, Eritreans pay tribute to the fallen heroes and heroines through ceremonies, memorial services, and visits to martyrs’ cemeteries. It is a day of reflection, remembrance, and national unity.

Eid al-Fitr – Date varies (Islamic calendar)

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a joyous occasion celebrated by Muslims worldwide with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. In Eritrea, where Islam is one of the major religions, Eid al-Fitr is observed with special prayers, family gatherings, and the sharing of meals and gifts. It is a time of spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and communal solidarity.

Eid al-Adha – Date varies (Islamic calendar)

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God. Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha by performing the Eid prayer, sacrificing animals, and distributing meat to those in need. In Eritrea, Muslims observe the holiday with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. It is a time to reflect on the importance of sacrifice, compassion, and faith.

Table of Public Holidays and Days Off