| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | Ramadan Start | Observance |
| Friday | Apr 21,2023 | Eid ul-Fitr | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Apr 24,2023 | Eid ul-Fitr Holiday | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day / May Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | May 25,2023 | Africa Day | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Jun 28,2023 | Eid al-Adha | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Jul 19,2023 | Muharram/Islamic New Year | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Sep 27,2023 | Milad un Nabi (Mawlid) (Tentative Date) | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Nov 28,2023 | Independence Day | Public Holiday |
New Year's Day is celebrated in Mauritania as a global tradition to welcome the beginning of a new year with enthusiasm and optimism. On this day, people gather with friends and family to bid farewell to the old year and embrace the new one. In Mauritania, it's a time for reflection, setting new goals, and enjoying festive meals. It is not only a time for celebration but also an occasion to exchange gifts and best wishes, strengthening bonds among the community. New Year's Day holds cultural importance as it reflects the nation's connection to the global calendar and the spirit of hope for a brighter future.
Ramadan Start marks the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan in Mauritania. This month holds great significance for Muslims worldwide, as it is a time of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. Observing Muslims abstain from food and drink during daylight hours and engage in acts of worship. Ramadan fosters spiritual growth, empathy, and unity among the Mauritanian population, emphasizing self-discipline and compassion for those less fortunate. It is a time when families come together for special meals and prayers, deepening their cultural and religious connections.
Eid ul-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is celebrated joyously in Mauritania. It follows the month of Ramadan, marking the end of fasting. Families and friends come together for communal prayers and feasts, sharing delicious dishes and sweets. Giving to the less fortunate, known as Zakat al-Fitr, is an essential part of the celebration, promoting generosity and social harmony. Eid ul-Fitr holds cultural significance as a time of unity, forgiveness, and gratitude. It strengthens the bonds of community and showcases the rich Islamic heritage of Mauritania.
Labor Day, also known as May Day, is observed in Mauritania as a day to honor the labor force's contributions to society. It celebrates the achievements of workers and their rights. People participate in parades, rallies, and other events to advocate for labor rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions. Labor Day emphasizes the importance of workers' well-being and fosters a sense of unity among various labor unions. It holds cultural importance by highlighting the nation's commitment to workers' rights and social justice.
Africa Day is celebrated in Mauritania to commemorate the founding of the African Union (formerly known as the Organization of African Unity) on May 25th, 1963. This day promotes African unity, solidarity, and cooperation. It showcases the diverse cultures and heritage of the African continent through cultural exhibitions, music, dance, and discussions. Africa Day holds cultural importance as it strengthens the country's ties with other African nations and highlights Mauritania's commitment to pan-African values and principles.
Eid al-Adha, known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is celebrated in Mauritania with deep religious significance. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Families who can afford it sacrifice an animal, such as a sheep or goat, and distribute the meat to the needy. This act of charity reflects values of empathy and community support. Eid al-Adha reinforces the cultural and religious bonds within the Mauritanian Muslim community, emphasizing sacrifice, compassion, and gratitude.
Muharram, the Islamic New Year, is a significant cultural and religious event in Mauritania. It marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed with fasting, reflection, and prayer. Muslims use this time to evaluate their spiritual journey and seek blessings for the upcoming year. The first day of Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura, holds particular significance, as it is associated with historical events and acts of devotion. Muharram strengthens the cultural ties to Islamic heritage and fosters a sense of unity among the Mauritanian Muslim population.
Milad un Nabi, or Mawlid, celebrates the birth of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad. While the date may vary, it is observed with prayers, storytelling, and gatherings to reflect on the life and teachings of the Prophet. This day emphasizes the importance of Prophet Muhammad in the lives of Muslims and showcases cultural traditions through songs and poems. It holds cultural significance as it strengthens the connection to Islamic heritage and fosters a sense of community among the Mauritanian Muslim population.
Independence Day in Mauritania is celebrated on November 28th to commemorate the nation's freedom from French colonial rule in 1960. It is a day of national pride and unity, marked by flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and speeches. Mauritania's Independence Day holds immense cultural importance as it symbolizes the country's sovereignty and the sacrifices made by its people for self-determination. It fosters a sense of patriotism and national identity among the Mauritanian population, strengthening the bond of unity and pride in their history.
