Central African Republic Public Holidays
Central African Republic observes a mix of public, national, and regional holidays throughout the year.
Overview
Central African Republic observes a mix of public, national, and regional holidays throughout the year.
Some holidays are observed nationwide, while others may apply only to specific regions or communities.
Explore the holiday calendar for Central African Republic by year below.
2026 holidays
A quick look at upcoming holidays in Central African Republic.
| Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 1 | Thursday | New Year |
| Feb 18 | Wednesday | Ramadan Start |
| Mar 20 | Friday | Eid al-Fitr |
| Mar 20 | Friday | March Equinox |
| Mar 29 | Sunday | Commemoration of Boganda |
| Apr 6 | Monday | Easter Monday |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day |
| May 14 | Thursday | Ascension Day |
| May 25 | Monday | Pentecost Monday |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Eid al-Adha |
| Jun 21 | Sunday | June Solstice |
| Jun 30 | Tuesday | National Prayer Day |
| Aug 13 | Thursday | Independence Day |
| Aug 15 | Saturday | Assumption of Mary |
| Sep 23 | Wednesday | September Equinox |
Holiday calendar by year
Years are listed in ascending order.
About public holidays in Central African Republic
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of public holidays in the Central African Republic. Holidays are observed nationwide and can affect business operations and public services. For a detailed understanding of what constitutes a public holiday, please refer to our definitions page.
Explore the full list of observed holidays for the Central African Republic in 2026 and other available years.
Major public holidays in 2026
The Central African Republic observes a variety of national holidays, blending secular, religious, and historical commemorations. Key dates in 2026 include:
Many other holidays are observed throughout the year, including religious festivals whose dates shift annually and astronomical events. For a complete listing, please visit the Central African Republic holidays in 2026 page.
- New Year — 1 January 2026. Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year.
- Commemoration of Boganda — 29 March 2026. Honors Barthélemy Boganda, a key figure in the nation's independence movement.
- Labour Day — 1 May 2026. Celebrates workers and their contributions.
- Independence Day — 13 August 2026. Commemorates the nation's independence from France.
- Republic Day — 1 December 2026. Celebrates the establishment of the Central African Republic.
- Christmas Day — 25 December 2026. A widely celebrated Christian holiday.
Planning around holidays
Public holidays in the Central African Republic often fall on specific dates or are tied to religious observances, which can lead to predictable closures. Understanding these patterns can help with planning travel and business activities.
- Seasonal Patterns: Many holidays are fixed on the calendar, such as Independence Day and Republic Day. Religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Easter-related observances shift annually based on lunar calendars or religious determinations.
- Mid-Year Observances: A cluster of holidays often occurs around May, including Labour Day, Ascension Day, and Pentecost Monday, potentially creating longer periods of reduced activity.
- Year-End Holidays: The end of the year features significant holidays like All Saints' Day, Republic Day, and Christmas Day, which may impact operations.
- Astronomical Events: Holidays such as equinoxes and solstices are observed on fixed dates, providing predictable calendar markers.
Plan Your Year Around CF Holidays
View Central African Republic holidays in calendar mode
Explore public holidays in a visual calendar layout and plan ahead more easily.