Mali Public Holidays
Mali Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Mali? All public holidays in Mali are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Mali employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Mali 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 one of the most widely observed public holidays in Mali. The holiday is a time for reflection, family gatherings, and festivities. People take this day off to spend time with loved ones, enjoy festive meals, and reflect on their resolutions for the year ahead.
In Mali, New Year’s Day is typically marked by family celebrations, with special meals, music, and cultural gatherings. The day is relatively calm compared to other global New Year’s celebrations, but it remains an important moment for many Malian families to come together and celebrate the start of a new year.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mali.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international holiday that honors the contributions of workers to society. In Mali, Labour Day is an important occasion marked by rallies, speeches, and public demonstrations organized by labor unions, workers’ organizations, and political groups. The day is a time to recognize the rights and achievements of workers, while advocating for improvements in working conditions, wages, and labor rights.
The holiday is celebrated with public events, including parades, marches, and discussions on workers’ rights. In cities like Bamako, the capital, workers take to the streets to express solidarity, advocate for better working conditions, and call for social justice reforms. It is also a day for families to relax and enjoy time together, with many people taking part in community events or public festivities.
Duration
Labour 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 (September 22)
Description
Independence Day in Mali, celebrated on September 22nd, marks the day in 1960 when Mali gained independence from France. This day is one of the most significant public holidays in the country, and it is celebrated with a deep sense of national pride. It marks the country’s sovereignty, the struggle for freedom, and the achievements of its people.
Independence Day is observed with official ceremonies, including flag-raising events, military parades, and speeches by government officials. The day is filled with celebrations, showcasing Malian culture through music, dance, traditional performances, and public gatherings. It is also a day of reflection on the progress Mali has made since independence and the ongoing challenges the country faces.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mali.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is a global holiday that honors the contributions of workers. In Mali, it is celebrated with parades, public speeches, and rallies organized by labor unions and workers’ organizations. The day serves as an occasion to recognize the importance of workers in the development of the country, while advocating for fair wages, improved working conditions, and better labor laws.
On Labour Day, many people in Mali participate in various public events, including marches and discussions on workers’ rights. In Bamako, labor unions and workers’ groups often take the opportunity to voice their concerns about economic and social justice, and there is a focus on promoting unity and solidarity among workers. It is also a day for families to spend time together and enjoy community events.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Mali, especially workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) (Variable Date, July or August)
Description
Tabaski, also known as Eid al-Adha, is an important Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims in Mali. The holiday, which occurs on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar, marks the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Muslims commemorate this event with prayers, feasts, and acts of charity.
In Mali, Tabaski is a deeply religious and cultural occasion. The day begins with special prayers at the mosque, followed by a family meal. Many people also participate in the tradition of animal sacrifice, usually a ram, goat, or cow, with the meat distributed among family members, neighbors, and the less fortunate. Tabaski is a time for socializing, reconnecting with family, and reflecting on faith and sacrifice.
Duration
Tabaski is typically a two-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for both days.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Muslims.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the holiday period, though essential services remain operational.
Eid al-Fitr (Variable Date, May or June)
Description
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most important religious holidays for Muslims in Mali. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The holiday is celebrated with special prayers, festive meals, and family gatherings.
In Mali, Eid al-Fitr is an occasion for giving thanks, enjoying meals with loved ones, and participating in community celebrations. People often visit friends and family members, and many take the opportunity to give charity, particularly to those in need. The day is filled with joy and gratitude, as Muslims express thanks to Allah for the strength and patience shown during the fasting period.
Duration
Eid al-Fitr is typically a one- to two-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Muslims.
- 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 widely observed by Christians in Mali. While the majority of Mali’s population is Muslim, Christmas is still recognized by the Christian community. It is a day for religious observance, family gatherings, and festive meals.
In Mali, Christmas is a time to attend church services, exchange gifts, and spend time with family. Many churches hold special services, and the day is marked by music, prayer, and festive dinners. Though Christmas is not as widely celebrated as in other countries with large Christian populations, it remains an important holiday for Mali’s Christian community.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily 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 Mali
| 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 | September 22 | 1 day | General Public |
| Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) | Variable (July/August) | 2 days | Muslims |
| Eid al-Fitr | Variable (May/June) | 1-2 days | Muslims |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
