Cape Verde Public Holidays
Cape Verde Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Cape Verde? All public holidays in Cape Verde are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Cape Verde employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Cape Verde and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Description
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a public holiday in Cape Verde, widely observed by the citizens of the country. The day is a time for reflection, celebration, and setting resolutions for the year ahead. It is celebrated across Cape Verde with a mix of religious and secular activities, with many people participating in family gatherings, attending church services, and enjoying festive meals.
In the capital city, Praia, and other urban areas, public festivities such as concerts, fireworks, and cultural events often take place to welcome the new year. Cape Verdeans, like many others, celebrate New Year’s Day by enjoying meals together and exchanging good wishes for the upcoming year. While it is not as widely observed as some other holidays, it is still an important occasion for many.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Cape Verde.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labor Day (May 1)
Description
Labor Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international holiday dedicated to workers and their contributions to society. In Cape Verde, it is a public holiday observed with rallies, parades, and speeches advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and better working conditions. It is an occasion for labor unions, political groups, and community organizations to come together to reflect on the labor movement’s achievements and the ongoing fight for social justice.
Labor Day is often marked by organized events in the cities, with workers and union members participating in public demonstrations. In Praia and other towns, the holiday is an opportunity to discuss and address issues related to workers’ rights, while also providing time for relaxation, leisure, and family gatherings.
Duration
Labor Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (July 5)
Description
Independence Day in Cape Verde is celebrated on July 5th, commemorating the day in 1975 when Cape Verde gained independence from Portugal. This day is of great national importance and is marked by national pride, reflection, and celebration. It is a time to remember the country’s liberation struggles and celebrate its sovereignty.
The holiday is marked with official ceremonies, including speeches by political leaders, military parades, and cultural performances. Many people participate in community celebrations, including traditional dances, music, and gatherings. Independence Day serves as an opportunity for Cape Verdeans to reflect on the country’s journey since independence and to appreciate the progress made over the years.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Cape Verde.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Assumption Day (August 15)
Description
Assumption Day, celebrated on August 15th, is a Catholic holiday observed in Cape Verde. It commemorates the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. The holiday has religious significance for Catholics in Cape Verde, where the majority of the population adheres to Christianity.
On this day, many Cape Verdeans attend church services, participate in religious processions, and reflect on the spiritual significance of the Assumption of Mary. In some communities, especially in rural areas, people gather for special prayers, feasts, and family activities. The holiday is observed with a solemn and festive spirit, focusing on religious devotion, family, and social unity.
Duration
Assumption Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Catholics.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Republic Day (October 5)
Description
Republic Day in Cape Verde, celebrated on October 5th, marks the day in 1991 when Cape Verde adopted a new constitution and transitioned into a multi-party democratic republic. This day holds great political significance as it symbolizes the country’s commitment to democratic governance, human rights, and social progress.
Republic Day is marked by official ceremonies, including speeches by political leaders, cultural performances, and community activities. It is a time to reflect on the country’s political evolution and democratic achievements. People in Cape Verde take the opportunity to come together to celebrate their political freedom and national unity. The day is often filled with patriotic events, concerts, and exhibitions.
Duration
Republic Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Cape Verde.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important holidays for Christians in Cape Verde. It is widely observed by the Christian population, which forms the majority of the country. Christmas is a day of religious observance, family gatherings, and celebration.
On Christmas Day, people attend church services to celebrate the birth of Christ. The holiday is also marked by festive meals, where families come together to share traditional Cape Verdean foods such as roasted meats, rice, and special holiday treats. It is also a time for gift-giving, particularly among family members and close friends. Christmas in Cape Verde is a joyful and family-oriented celebration.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Cape Verde, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Cape Verde
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Independence Day | July 5 | 1 day | General Public |
| Assumption Day | August 15 | 1 day | General Public (Catholics) |
| Republic Day | October 5 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
