Discover the national holidays celebrated in Afghanistan, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this nation. From the colorful festivities of Nowruz, marking the arrival of spring, to the solemn observance of Independence Day, delve into the traditions that unite Afghans. Explore religious occasions like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, where communities come together in joy and reflection.
| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | Feb 15,2023 | Liberation Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Mar 21,2023 | Nauruz | Observance |
| Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | First Day of Ramadan | Observance |
| Saturday | Apr 22,2023 | Eid al-Fitr | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 23,2023 | Eid al-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Apr 24,2023 | Eid al-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 28,2023 | Afghan Victory Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Jun 27,2023 | Day of Arafat | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Jun 28,2023 | Eid al-Adha | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 29,2023 | Eid al-Adha Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Jun 30,2023 | Eid al-Adha Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Jul 28,2023 | Ashura | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 15,2023 | Anniversary of Taliban Rule | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Aug 19,2023 | Independence Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Aug 31,2023 | Anniversary of the Withdrawal of Foreign Troops | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Sep 09,2023 | Martyrs and Ahmad Shah Masoud Day | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Sep 27,2023 | Eid e-Milad-un Nabi | Public Holiday |
New Year's Day in Papua New Guinea marks the beginning of the year with festivities and fireworks. It's a time for reflection and setting resolutions for the year ahead.
This solemn day is dedicated to the memory of Sir Michael Somare, a revered leader in PNG's history. It's an occasion for tributes and remembrance of his contributions to the nation.
Holy Saturday falls between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It's a day of reflection and preparation for the Easter celebration, often marked by church activities and community gatherings.
Easter Sunday is a joyous occasion in PNG, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Families come together for special meals, egg hunts, and church services.
Easter Monday is a continuation of the Easter celebrations. Many Papuans enjoy outdoor activities and picnics on this day, making the most of the long weekend.
This holiday typically represents an additional day off, often used for relaxation, family time, or community events. It doesn't have a specific cultural or religious significance.
Queen Elizabeth II's Birthday is celebrated to honor the British monarch. It's marked by parades, cultural events, and patriotic displays showcasing PNG's connection to the Commonwealth.
Similar to the Queen's Birthday, the King's Birthday celebrates the reigning monarch. It's an occasion for national pride and unity.
The National Day of Repentance is a religious holiday for introspection, prayer, and repentance. It underscores the significance of faith in PNG's culture.
Independence Day is a monumental holiday celebrating PNG's freedom from colonial rule. It features parades, traditional dances, and cultural displays showcasing the nation's heritage.
Christmas Day is celebrated with religious services and festive gatherings. Families exchange gifts, and communities come together to spread love, joy, and goodwill.
Boxing Day is a time for giving back and acts of charity. It's a day when Papuans share with those in need, emphasizing the spirit of generosity and community in their culture.
Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram in the Islamic lunar calendar, holds both historical and religious significance in Afghanistan. It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala. Afghans participate in processions, recite elegies, and engage in acts of charity on this solemn day. Ashura serves as a reminder of the values of justice, sacrifice, and standing against oppression, which are deeply rooted in Afghan culture and history.
The Anniversary of Taliban Rule is a day of reflection and remembrance, marking the period of Taliban rule in Afghanistan. While not a celebration, it serves as a reminder of the challenges and hardships faced by the Afghan people during that time. Afghans use this day to reflect on their nation's history and the importance of peace, stability, and unity in moving forward. It underscores the resilience and determination of the Afghan people to build a better future.
Independence Day, celebrated on August 19th, commemorates Afghanistan's independence from British influence in 1919. It is a day of patriotic fervor, marked by flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural displays. Afghans take pride in their nation's history and the struggle for sovereignty. Independence Day is a testament to the Afghan people's determination to preserve their cultural identity and protect their homeland. It is a day of unity and national pride.
The Anniversary of the Withdrawal of Foreign Troops is a significant day in contemporary Afghan history. It marks the departure of foreign military forces from Afghanistan and the country's path toward self-reliance and sovereignty. Afghans use this day to reflect on the challenges and opportunities of a post-conflict era. It represents a turning point in Afghanistan
Martyrs and Ahmad Shah Masoud Day, observed on September 9th, is a day to honor the memory of Ahmad Shah Masoud, a national hero who played a crucial role in resisting foreign invasions and promoting Afghan unity. It is also a day to remember all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom. Afghans pay tribute to these heroes through ceremonies, speeches, and cultural events, emphasizing the importance of bravery, patriotism, and unity in Afghanistan's history.
Eid e-Milad-un Nabi, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is observed on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal in the Islamic lunar calendar. Afghans commemorate this occasion with prayers, religious gatherings, and sharing stories of the Prophet's life and teachings. Eid e-Milad-un Nabi fosters a sense of spiritual connection, community, and reverence for the Prophet's exemplary life. It underscores the significance of Islamic values and teachings in Afghan culture and society.
