| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Jan 22,2023 | Lunar New Year | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Feb 25,2023 | Revolution Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Mar 07,2023 | Holi Phagwa | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Mar 23,2023 | Ramadan Start | Observance |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Apr 09,2023 | Easter Sunday | Observance, Christian |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Apr 22,2023 | Eid al-Fitr | Public Holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labor Day | Public Holiday |
| Thursday | Jun 29,2023 | Eid al-Adha | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Jul 01,2023 | Freedom Day | Public Holiday |
| Wednesday | Aug 09,2023 | Indigenous Peoples Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Oct 10,2023 | Day of the Maroons | Public Holiday |
| Sunday | Nov 12,2023 | Diwali | Public Holiday |
| Saturday | Nov 25,2023 | Independence Day | Public Holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | Public Holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | Boxing Day | Public Holiday |
Suriname welcomes the New Year with vibrant celebrations, fireworks, and parties that light up the night. It marks the beginning of a fresh start and a time for reflection and setting resolutions. The cultural importance lies in the unity and hope it brings to people of all backgrounds, as they come together to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one.
Lunar New Year, or 'Nieuwjaar' in Suriname, is celebrated by the Chinese community. It signifies the start of the lunar calendar and involves dragon dances, delicious feasts, and the exchange of red envelopes (hongbao) for good luck. The cultural importance is in preserving Chinese traditions and strengthening family bonds through shared meals and festivities.
Revolution Day commemorates the Surinamese Revolution of 1980. It is a day to reflect on the nation's history and progress towards democracy. People participate in parades, cultural events, and discussions to honor those who fought for change. The holiday holds cultural significance as a reminder of the country's journey towards political freedom and independence.
Holi Phagwa, also known as the Festival of Colors, is celebrated by Suriname's Hindu community. Participants joyfully throw colored powders and water at each other, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The holiday celebrates the arrival of spring and the importance of unity and love. It is a day of cultural harmony, as people from various backgrounds come together to share in the festivities.
Ramadan is observed by Suriname's Muslim community. It is a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection on one's faith. Muslims refrain from food and drink from dawn to sunset. The cultural importance is in the spiritual growth and self-discipline it promotes, as well as fostering empathy for those less fortunate. It ends with Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday of feasting and giving to the needy.
Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Suriname, it is a day of reflection and solemnity, with church services and processions. It holds cultural importance as a time for Christians to deepen their faith and remember the sacrifice of Christ for their sins.
Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a joyous occasion in Suriname, marked by church services, Easter egg hunts, and festive meals with family and friends. The cultural significance is in the renewal of faith and the hope that Easter brings to Christians, symbolizing new beginnings and the triumph of life over death.
Easter Monday is a continuation of Easter celebrations, often spent with family and friends. It is a day for picnics, outings, and relaxation. The cultural importance lies in the opportunity for people to connect with loved ones and enjoy the beauty of nature as they appreciate the Easter season.
Eid al-Fitr, also known as 'Id-ul-Fitr' in Suriname, marks the end of Ramadan. It is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. The cultural importance is in the sense of community and generosity it fosters, as Muslims come together to break their fast and share their blessings with others in need.
Labor Day in Suriname recognizes the contributions of workers and labor unions. It is a day for rallies, parades, and discussions about labor rights and social justice. The cultural importance is in advocating for workers' welfare and solidarity among various labor organizations, promoting fairness and equality in the workplace.
Eid al-Adha, or 'Id-ul-Adha' in Suriname, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It involves prayers, the sacrifice of animals, and sharing meat with the less fortunate. The cultural importance lies in faith, compassion, and the spirit of giving, as Muslims demonstrate their commitment to God and the community.
Freedom Day celebrates Suriname's independence from the Netherlands on November 25, 1975. It is a day of national pride and patriotism. People attend flag-raising ceremonies, cultural events, and parades. The cultural significance is in honoring Suriname's history and diverse cultural heritage, fostering a sense of unity and identity as a sovereign nation.
Indigenous Peoples Day recognizes and honors the cultures, traditions, and contributions of Suriname's indigenous populations. It is a day for cultural exhibitions, traditional music, and storytelling. The cultural importance is in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Suriname's indigenous communities, fostering mutual respect and understanding among all residents.
Day of the Maroons commemorates the escape of enslaved Africans to form independent communities in Suriname's interior. It is celebrated with maroon-style festivities, traditional dance, and storytelling. The cultural importance lies in acknowledging the resilience and heritage of the Maroon communities, highlighting their contributions to Suriname's culture and history.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Suriname's Hindu community. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes are adorned with lamps and colorful decorations. The cultural importance is in the spiritual significance of the festival and the unity it brings among Hindus, as they share sweets and light lamps to welcome prosperity and happiness.
Independence Day on November 25th marks Suriname's official declaration of independence from the Netherlands in 1975. It is a day of national celebration with parades, music, and cultural events. The cultural significance is in remembering and embracing Suriname's sovereignty, reflecting on the journey towards self-governance, and fostering a sense of national pride.
Christmas in Suriname is a time for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It includes church services, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts. The cultural importance is in spreading love and goodwill, as families and friends come together to share the joy of the holiday season, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Boxing Day is a continuation of Christmas celebrations, marked by relaxation, visiting friends and family, and enjoying leftover holiday feasts. It is a day of giving, often involving acts of charity and kindness. The cultural importance is in extending the spirit of generosity and togetherness beyond Christmas Day, creating lasting memories with loved ones.
