Myanmar Public Holidays
Burma Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Burma? All public holidays in Burma are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Burma employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Burma 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 in Myanmar, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the year according to the Gregorian calendar. While Myanmar traditionally observes the Burmese New Year in April (Thingyan), January 1st is still an official public holiday. This day is generally a quiet celebration, marked by family gatherings, church services, and reflection on the past year.
In the cities, businesses and government offices close for the day, while some people may attend events or parties to celebrate. This holiday offers the people of Myanmar an opportunity to pause, celebrate family, and enjoy a break from work. The day is typically more low-key compared to other global New Year’s celebrations.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Myanmar.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (January 4)
Description
Independence Day in Myanmar, celebrated on January 4th, marks the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1948. This day is of great significance, as it commemorates the country’s struggle for independence and the establishment of a sovereign state.
The holiday is marked by various government-organized events such as flag-raising ceremonies, military parades, and speeches by the president and other key officials. Myanmar citizens celebrate the day with patriotic pride, and many also reflect on the country’s journey since gaining independence. National events are often held, including performances of traditional music and dance.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Myanmar.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Union Day (February 12)
Description
Union Day, celebrated on February 12th, marks the signing of the Panglong Agreement in 1947, which was a key event in Myanmar’s journey towards independence. The agreement united the ethnic groups of Myanmar under the goal of creating a federal union. Union Day is a symbol of national unity and the country’s diverse ethnic heritage.
This day is celebrated with speeches, cultural performances, and public events aimed at emphasizing national unity. The government organizes ceremonies to reflect on the unity of Myanmar’s people and the struggles they have overcome to create a unified nation. It is also an opportunity to address ongoing issues of ethnic equality and federalism.
Duration
Union Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Myanmar.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Thingyan (Myanmar New Year) (Variable Date, April)
Description
Thingyan, the Burmese New Year, is celebrated in April and marks the beginning of the new year according to the Myanmar lunar calendar. Thingyan is the most significant holiday in Myanmar, and it is a time of great festivity, religious observance, and water-related celebrations. The holiday lasts several days, and it is characterized by street festivals, water fights, and family reunions.
During Thingyan, people splash water on each other as a symbolic act of washing away bad luck and sins from the past year. The holiday is also marked by prayers and temple visits, as people seek blessings for the year ahead. The festival is a joyful and communal event, with people of all ages coming together to enjoy the festivities.
Duration
Thingyan is typically a five-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the duration of the celebrations.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Myanmar.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the entire holiday period, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, honors the contributions of workers and highlights issues related to labor rights. It is an international holiday observed in Myanmar to acknowledge the importance of the working class and to advocate for better wages, working conditions, and rights for workers.
Labour Day is marked by public rallies, speeches, and parades organized by trade unions, government representatives, and political groups. Workers in various sectors take part in celebrations, reflecting on the progress made in labor rights, while also addressing ongoing issues in the labor sector. It is a time for the government and civil society to reflect on the role of workers in Myanmar’s economic development.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
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.
Martyrs’ Day (July 19)
Description
Martyrs’ Day, celebrated on July 19th, honors the assassination of General Aung San, a key figure in Myanmar’s fight for independence, and his colleagues in 1947. General Aung San is regarded as a national hero and the father of Myanmar’s independence, and Martyrs’ Day is dedicated to remembering his contributions and sacrifices for the nation.
On Martyrs’ Day, the people of Myanmar participate in memorial ceremonies, offering prayers and wreaths at the Martyrs’ Mausoleum in Yangon. Public speeches and discussions often focus on the ideals of unity, national independence, and the pursuit of peace, reflecting on the country’s ongoing journey. It is a solemn occasion to honor the sacrifice of those who fought for Myanmar’s freedom.
Duration
Martyrs’ Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Myanmar.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
National Day (December 10)
Description
National Day, celebrated on December 10th, marks the day in 1947 when Myanmar achieved full independence from Britain after a long struggle for freedom. It is a day of great significance for the nation, honoring the sacrifices made for independence and the progress Myanmar has made since that time. National Day is a celebration of Myanmar’s sovereignty, self-determination, and national pride.
The holiday is celebrated with public speeches, military parades, and cultural performances. In addition to these official events, citizens reflect on the country’s history, unity, and ongoing efforts to address issues such as poverty, equality, and development. National Day serves as a reminder of Myanmar’s journey from colonial rule to independence and its aspirations for the future.
Duration
National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Myanmar.
- 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. While Christians in Myanmar are a minority, Christmas is still widely observed by Christian communities throughout the country. Churches hold special services, and people attend Mass to celebrate the birth of Christ.
In Myanmar, Christmas Day is also marked by family gatherings, feasts, and gift exchanges. While not as widely celebrated as in some other countries, the holiday has been growing in prominence in recent years, particularly in urban areas where there are larger Christian populations. In these regions, Christmas decorations, lights, and performances can be seen, adding to the festive spirit.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians, though it is observed by others.
- 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 Myanmar
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Independence Day | January 4 | 1 day | General Public |
| Union Day | February 12 | 1 day | General Public |
| Thingyan (Myanmar New Year) | Variable (April) | 5 days | General Public |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Martyrs’ Day | July 19 | 1 day | General Public |
| National Day | December 10 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
