Dominica

Dominica : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Dominica

Dominica, known as the "Nature Island of the Caribbean," observes several public holidays that reflect its rich cultural heritage, religious traditions, and historical milestones. These holidays are celebrated with community events, family gatherings, and various local customs that bring people together.

• New Year's Day
  Marks the beginning of the calendar year. Celebrated on January 1st, it is a day for new beginnings and often includes family gatherings and public festivities.

• Carnival Monday
  This day is part of the vibrant pre-Lenten Carnival celebration. It involves parades, music, dancing, and colorful costumes, taking place the Monday before Ash Wednesday.

• Carnival Tuesday
  The highlight of Dominica's Carnival festivities, featuring exuberant street parades, calypso competitions, and traditional masquerades. It is celebrated the day after Carnival Monday.

• Good Friday
  A Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Observed with solemn church services on the Friday before Easter Sunday, it is a day of reflection and fasting.

• Easter Monday
  Celebrated the day after Easter Sunday, this holiday continues the Easter festivities, often marked by family outings and community events.

• Labour Day
  Observed on May 1st, Labour Day honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. Events often include speeches, parades, and community gatherings.

• Whit Monday
  The day after Pentecost Sunday, Whit Monday is a Christian holiday celebrated with church services and sometimes public events. It occurs 50 days after Easter.

• Emancipation Day
  Celebrated on August 1st, this holiday marks the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834. It is a day of remembrance and cultural pride, featuring ceremonies and cultural programs.

• Independence Day
  Takes place on November 3rd, celebrating Dominica's independence from Britain in 1978. Festivities include parades, cultural displays, and official government ceremonies.

• National Day of Community Service
  A day dedicated to volunteerism and community improvement, encouraging citizens to engage in activities that benefit their communities.

• Christmas Day
  Celebrated on December 25th, Christmas is a significant religious and cultural holiday featuring church services, gift-giving, and family gatherings.

• Boxing Day
  Observed on December 26th, traditionally a day for giving gifts to service workers and those in need. It includes sporting events, family visits, and relaxation after Christmas.

• Boxing Day (observed)
  When Boxing Day falls on a weekend, the holiday is observed on the following weekday to ensure a public holiday day off for workers.

Official Reference Site

• Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica