| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Jan 02,2023 | New Year's Day Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Feb 23,2023 | Mashramani (Republic Day) | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Mar 07,2023 | Phagwah (Holi) | Public Holiday |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day / May Day | Public Holiday |
| Friday | May 05,2023 | Arrival Day | Public Holiday |
| Friday | May 26,2023 | Independence Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 29,2023 | Eid al-Adha | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Jul 03,2023 | CARICOM Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Aug 01,2023 | Emancipation Day | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Sep 27,2023 | Youman-Nabi (Mawlid) (Tentative Date) | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Nov 12,2023 | Deepavali | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | Boxing Day | Public Holiday |
New Year's Day in Guyana is a time of celebration and reflection. It marks the beginning of the year with festivities, fireworks, and parties. People often make resolutions for the year ahead and spend time with family and friends. It's a day to welcome new opportunities and fresh beginnings, emphasizing hope and optimism for the future.
Mashramani, also known as Republic Day, is one of Guyana's most colorful and lively celebrations. It commemorates the country's transition to a republic in 1970. The festivities include vibrant parades, costume competitions, music, and dance. It's a cultural extravaganza that showcases the nation's diverse heritage and unity. Mashramani is a symbol of Guyanese pride, fostering a sense of patriotism and national identity.
Phagwah, known as Holi in other parts of the world, is a Hindu festival celebrated with enthusiasm in Guyana. It signifies the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring. People play with colorful powders and water, sing traditional songs, and enjoy delicious sweets. Phagwah is a cultural treasure that promotes harmony and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of religious diversity in Guyana.
Good Friday is a significant Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It's a day of reflection, prayer, and attending church services. Many Guyanese observe this day by participating in processions and reenactments of Christ's journey to the cross. Good Friday holds deep religious importance, highlighting the role of Christianity in Guyana's cultural tapestry.
Easter Monday, following Good Friday, is a time for family gatherings and outdoor activities. Many Guyanese enjoy picnics, kite flying, and sports competitions on this day. It signifies the joy of resurrection and new life, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Easter Monday brings people of different backgrounds together, showcasing the country's unity in diversity.
Labor Day, also known as May Day, honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. It's a day for labor unions to advocate for workers' rights and better working conditions. In Guyana, you'll find parades, rallies, and speeches highlighting the importance of fair labor practices. Labor Day emphasizes the strength of the workforce and its role in the nation's progress.
Arrival Day is a significant holiday in Guyana that recognizes the diverse cultural heritage of the nation. It commemorates the arrival of indentured laborers from India, China, Portugal, and Africa who contributed to Guyana's rich multicultural tapestry. The day is marked by cultural performances, exhibitions, and educational events that celebrate the various ethnic groups that make up Guyanese society.
Independence Day in Guyana is a day of immense pride and patriotism. It celebrates the country's independence from British colonial rule on May 26, 1966. The day is marked by parades, flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, and fireworks displays. Independence Day instills a sense of national identity and unity among Guyanese, emphasizing their commitment to a bright and sovereign future.
Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakri Eid, is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated by the Muslim community in Guyana. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Families come together for prayers and the sacrifice of animals, with the meat shared with family, friends, and the needy. Eid al-Adha highlights the Islamic faith and values of charity and sacrifice.
CARICOM Day is a regional holiday celebrated by Caribbean nations, including Guyana. It marks the anniversary of the establishment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on July 4, 1973. The day is observed with cultural events, exhibitions, and discussions about regional cooperation and unity. CARICOM Day emphasizes Guyana's commitment to regional integration and collaboration with neighboring nations.
Emancipation Day in Guyana commemorates the abolition of slavery on August 1, 1834. It's a day to reflect on the struggles and resilience of the ancestors who fought for freedom. The celebrations include cultural performances, exhibitions, and educational programs that promote awareness of Guyana's African heritage. Emancipation Day underscores the importance of equality and justice in the country.
Youman-Nabi, also known as Mawlid, celebrates the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. It's observed by the Muslim community in Guyana with prayers, religious gatherings, and sharing of meals. The date may vary based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Youman-Nabi highlights the Islamic faith and its role in Guyana's cultural diversity, fostering mutual respect and understanding among its people.
Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Guyana's Hindu community. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Families decorate their homes with oil lamps and candles, exchange sweets, and visit temples. Deepavali showcases the cultural richness of Guyana and the importance of religious diversity in the nation's fabric. It promotes unity and harmony among different communities.
Christmas Day in Guyana is a festive occasion that marks the birth of Jesus Christ. It's celebrated with church services, family gatherings, gift exchanges, and festive feasts. The holiday embodies the spirit of giving and joy, bringing together people of various backgrounds in the spirit of love and goodwill. Christmas Day highlights the significance of Christianity in Guyana's cultural heritage.
Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, is a time for relaxation and continued celebrations with family and friends. Many Guyanese use this day to unwind, visit loved ones, and participate in various leisure activities. Boxing Day extends the festive spirit of Christmas and emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with loved ones.
