Afghanistan

Afghanistan : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Afghanistan

Afghanistan observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its rich cultural, religious, and historical heritage. Many holidays are based on the Islamic lunar calendar, which means their dates change annually in the Gregorian calendar. These holidays are marked by religious observances, national celebrations, and remembrance of significant historical events.

• Liberation Day
  Liberation Day commemorates significant events in Afghanistan’s history related to freedom and resistance against foreign occupation. It is marked by ceremonies and patriotic events, fostering national pride.
  Date: Varies depending on context and region
  Observance: Public events, speeches, and tributes

• First Day of Ramadan (estimated)
  Marks the beginning of Ramadan, a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. Observers fast from dawn to sunset and engage in increased spiritual activities.
  Date: Changes annually with the lunar calendar
  Observance: Fasting, prayer services, and charitable acts

• Eid al-Fitr (estimated)
  Marks the end of Ramadan with celebrations, feasting, and social gatherings. Families and communities come together to break the fast and give charity to the needy.
  Date: Varies annually, about 29-30 days after Ramadan starts
  Observance: Prayers, feasts, gift-giving, and community celebrations

• Mojahedin's Victory Day
  Celebrates the victory of the Afghan mujahideen over Soviet forces. It is a day of remembrance and national pride honoring those who fought for Afghanistan’s freedom.
  Date: Usually observed on a date commemorating the Soviet withdrawal
  Observance: Ceremonial events and patriotic displays

• Day of Arafah (estimated)
  An important day during the Hajj pilgrimage in Islam. Observers fast to seek forgiveness and mercy, commemorating the Prophet Muhammad’s sermon at Mount Arafat.
  Date: The 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah
  Observance: Fasting and prayer

• Eid al-Adha (estimated)
  Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, it honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It includes the sacrifice of animals and distribution of meat to the poor.
  Date: Falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah
  Observance: Prayer, animal sacrifice, charity, and family gatherings

• Ashura (estimated)
  Commemorates the martyrdom of Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala. It is a day of mourning and reflection for many Afghan Shia Muslims.
  Date: The 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar
  Observance: Mourning rituals and prayer

• Afghanistan Independence Day
  Celebrates Afghanistan's independence from British control achieved in 1919. This day is marked by patriotic ceremonies and cultural events.
  Date: August 19
  Observance: Parades, speeches, and national celebrations

• American Withdrawal Day
  Observes the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, marking a significant moment in recent Afghan history.
  Date: August 31
  Observance: Remembrance events and public reflection

• Prophet's Birthday (estimated)
  Celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is marked by religious gatherings, prayers, and recitations of the Prophet’s life and teachings.
  Date: The 12th day of Rabi' al-awwal in the Islamic calendar
  Observance: Religious festivities and community events

• Martyrs' Day
  Honors those who have died in service to the country, especially soldiers and resistance fighters. It is observed with solemn ceremonies.
  Date: Date varies by region or specific event commemorated
  Observance: Memorial services and tributes

Site officiel de référence

• Government of Afghanistan - Official Portal