Barbados

Barbados : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Barbados

Barbados observes a variety of public holidays that celebrate its history, culture, and significant events. These holidays reflect the country's colonial past, its path to independence, and its unique cultural heritage. Many holidays are marked by ceremonies, parades, family gatherings, and festive activities.

• New Year's Day

  • Origin and Significance: Celebrates the beginning of the new year.
  • Date and Observance: January 1st. Typically marked with fireworks, social events, and time spent with family and friends.

• Errol Barrow Day

  • Origin and Significance: Honors Errol Barrow, the first Prime Minister of Barbados and a key figure in the country's independence.
  • Date and Observance: January 21st. Commemorated with official ceremonies and reflections on Barrow’s contributions.

• Good Friday

  • Origin and Significance: Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
  • Date and Observance: Date varies (Friday before Easter Sunday). Observed with church services and fasting.

• Easter Monday

  • Origin and Significance: Christian holiday marking the day after Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus.
  • Date and Observance: Date varies (Monday after Easter Sunday). Often a public holiday with family gatherings and outdoor activities.

• National Heroes Day

  • Origin and Significance: Honors Barbadian national heroes who contributed significantly to the nation's development.
  • Date and Observance: April 28th. Marked by ceremonies and acknowledgements of national figures.

• May Day

  • Origin and Significance: International workers' day celebrating labor and workers' rights.
  • Date and Observance: May 1st. Labor unions and workers participate in marches and events.

• Whit Monday

  • Origin and Significance: Christian holiday celebrated on the day after Pentecost.
  • Date and Observance: Date varies (50 days after Easter). Observed with religious services.

• Emancipation Day

  • Origin and Significance: Commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the British Empire.
  • Date and Observance: August 1st. Includes cultural events, historical reflections, and family activities.

• Kadooment Day

  • Origin and Significance: The culmination of the Crop Over festival, a traditional harvest festival.
  • Date and Observance: First Monday in August. Features colorful parades, music, dancing, and vibrant celebrations.

• Independence Day

  • Origin and Significance: Celebrates Barbados’ independence from the United Kingdom in 1966.
  • Date and Observance: November 30th. Includes parades, cultural displays, and official ceremonies.

• Independence Day (observed)

  • Origin and Significance: When Independence Day falls on a weekend, the following Monday may be observed as a holiday.
  • Date and Observance: The Monday after November 30th if it falls on a weekend.

• Christmas Day

  • Origin and Significance: Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
  • Date and Observance: December 25th. Family gatherings, church services, and festive meals.

• Boxing Day

  • Origin and Significance: Traditionally a day to give gifts to the less fortunate and to service workers.
  • Date and Observance: December 26th. Shopping events, sporting events, and social activities are common.

• Emancipation Day (observed)

  • Origin and Significance: Observed when August 1st falls on a weekend.
  • Date and Observance: The following Monday after August 1st.

• Boxing Day (observed)

  • Origin and Significance: When Boxing Day falls on a weekend, the following Monday is observed as a public holiday.
  • Date and Observance: The Monday after December 26th.

Site officiel de référence

• Government of Barbados - Public Holidays