Public Holidays in Gambia in 2024

The Gambia, a small West African country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, observes several public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the country’s history, religious traditions, and cultural values. In 2024, the Gambia will celebrate a variety of holidays, each with its own significance and customs.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day – January 1st

New Year’s Day in the Gambia, as in many countries around the world, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a time for celebration and reflection, often involving gatherings with family and friends, parties, and special meals. Many Gambians also take this opportunity to make resolutions for the year ahead and set goals for personal and professional growth.

Independence Day – February 18th

Independence Day in the Gambia commemorates the country’s independence from British colonial rule, which was achieved on February 18, 1965. It is one of the most significant national holidays in the Gambia, celebrated with patriotic fervor and pride. The day is marked by official ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and festivities across the country.

International Women’s Day – March 8th

International Women’s Day is observed worldwide to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. In the Gambia, it is a public holiday that is celebrated with various events, including rallies, marches, conferences, and cultural performances. It is also a time to advocate for gender equality and women’s rights, and to highlight the contributions of women to Gambian society.

Labour Day – May 1st

Labour Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated in many countries around the world to honor the contributions of workers to society. In the Gambia, it is a public holiday that is observed with events and activities organized by trade unions, workers’ associations, and government agencies. These may include rallies, marches, speeches, and cultural performances to promote workers’ rights and social justice.

Koriteh (Eid al-Fitr) – Date varies (Islamic calendar)

Koriteh, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most important religious holidays for Muslims worldwide, including those in the Gambia. Koriteh is celebrated with special prayers, feasting, charity, and social gatherings. Families come together to share meals and exchange gifts, and many people also give alms to the less fortunate.

Tobaski (Eid al-Adha) – Date varies (Islamic calendar)

Tobaski, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, is another important Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims in the Gambia and around the world. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Tobaski is marked by prayers, animal sacrifices, feasting, and the distribution of meat to family, friends, and the needy.

Koriteh and Tobaski holidays are typically observed for several days each, allowing Muslims in the Gambia to participate fully in the religious and cultural aspects of these important occasions.

Table of Public Holidays and Days Off

Holiday	Date	Days Off	Groups
New Year’s Day	January 1	1	All
Independence Day	February 18	1	All
International Women’s Day	March 8	1	All (with special focus on women)
Labour Day	May 1	1	All
Koriteh (Eid al-Fitr)	Variable	1-2	Muslims
Tobaski (Eid al-Adha)	Variable	1-2	Muslims