Sao Tome and Principe Public Holidays
Sao Tome and Principe Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Sao Tome and Principe? All public holidays in Sao Tome and Principe are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Sao Tome and Principe employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Sao Tome and Principe 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 is celebrated on January 1st in São Tomé and Príncipe, marking the start of the new year according to the Gregorian calendar. The day is celebrated with festivities across the country, where people often gather with family and friends to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new one. It is a public holiday dedicated to enjoying the first day of the year with joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of hope.
On this day, many people in São Tomé and Príncipe participate in communal celebrations, which include music, dancing, and traditional meals. The day often starts with family-oriented activities, such as church services, followed by socializing, eating, and resting. As a new year dawns, people make resolutions and anticipate a fresh start.
Duration
The holiday is one day long, and businesses, government offices, and schools typically close to allow everyone to participate in the festivities.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses and services are closed, but essential services continue.
Carnival (Variable Date, February or March)
Description
Carnival in São Tomé and Príncipe is a lively and vibrant festival that takes place before Lent. It is a time of music, dancing, and parades, and is often considered one of the most important cultural events in the country. Carnival celebrations are marked by colorful costumes, street parades, music, and dancing in both the urban and rural areas.
The celebration typically lasts for several days, culminating in the actual Carnival day, which is filled with festive activities. Participants dress in elaborate costumes, representing everything from historical figures to fictional characters, and take to the streets to celebrate. Traditional rhythms and music fill the air as people dance and celebrate, creating a festive atmosphere that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Duration
Carnival lasts for a few days, with the official holiday taking place on the main Carnival day. The holiday typically lasts one day, but celebrations often continue through the evening and into the following day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens participate in the festival, especially those in urban centers.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Many businesses close for the day or offer limited services.
Good Friday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Good Friday is a Christian observance commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In São Tomé and Príncipe, it is marked by solemn religious ceremonies, with many people attending church services to reflect on the significance of Christ’s sacrifice. Good Friday is a day of prayer, reflection, and repentance, and is a time for the Christian community to come together to honor the meaning of the day.
Good Friday is a public holiday in São Tomé and Príncipe, and many citizens use the day to reflect on their faith, participate in church services, and engage in quiet, personal meditation. In some areas, processions and reenactments of the Passion of Christ may take place.
Duration
Good Friday is a one-day holiday. Most businesses and government offices are closed for the day, and schools may also be closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily the Christian population.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed, except for essential services.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international holiday that honors the contributions of workers and labor movements. In São Tomé and Príncipe, Labour Day is a public holiday where citizens take time to reflect on workers’ rights, the importance of fair labor practices, and the need for continued improvement in the workplace.
The day is marked by various public demonstrations, speeches, and gatherings organized by labor unions and political groups. Parades may take place in the capital city, where workers gather to celebrate their contributions to society and call for better working conditions. Many people also take the day to rest and enjoy time with family and friends.
Duration
Labour Day is observed as a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly workers and labor union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, but essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (July 12)
Description
Independence Day, celebrated on July 12th, commemorates São Tomé and Príncipe’s independence from Portugal, which was granted on this day in 1975. Independence Day is one of the most significant national holidays in the country, and it is a day of pride, patriotism, and reflection on the struggles for independence.
The day is marked by national celebrations, including official ceremonies, military parades, and public speeches. Throughout the country, citizens take to the streets to celebrate with music, dance, and other festivities. The national flag is flown proudly, and many people gather with friends and family to celebrate the achievements of their nation and honor those who fought for the country’s freedom.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, and many businesses, government offices, and schools are closed to allow people to participate in the national celebrations.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed for the day, with exceptions for essential services.
Assumption of Mary (August 15)
Description
The Assumption of Mary is a Christian holiday celebrated on August 15th, marking the belief that the Virgin Mary was assumed into heaven at the end of her earthly life. In São Tomé and Príncipe, it is observed as a day of religious significance, especially among the Catholic population.
On this day, many Christians attend church services and processions to honor the Virgin Mary. Some regions may also hold cultural events or festivals in conjunction with the religious observance, celebrating the role of Mary in Christian tradition. The Assumption of Mary is a time for personal reflection on the divine and a celebration of faith.
Duration
The Assumption of Mary is a one-day holiday. Most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians, particularly Catholics.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Businesses generally close for the day, although essential services remain operational.
All Saints’ Day (November 1)
Description
All Saints’ Day, celebrated on November 1st, is a Christian holiday dedicated to honoring all the saints. It is a day for Christians to remember and honor those who have led exemplary lives of faith, and in São Tomé and Príncipe, the holiday is marked by church services, prayers, and visits to cemeteries.
People in São Tomé and Príncipe visit the graves of their loved ones, laying flowers and lighting candles to honor the deceased. All Saints’ Day is not only a day to remember saints but also a day of reflection on one’s own life and faith. It is a solemn occasion that reminds people of the importance of living a virtuous and righteous life.
Duration
All Saints’ Day is observed for one day, with many businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, especially Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, except for essential services.
Republic Day (November 5)
Description
Republic Day, celebrated on November 5th, marks the day when São Tomé and Príncipe adopted its republican form of government in 1975. It is an important national holiday that celebrates the establishment of the republic and the political and economic achievements since independence.
Republic Day is marked by official ceremonies, speeches, and various national celebrations. The president and other political leaders often deliver speeches to reflect on the country’s progress and outline the vision for the future. It is a day to honor the democratic ideals of the nation and celebrate the unity and independence of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Duration
Republic Day is a one-day holiday, and businesses, government offices, and schools are typically closed for the day.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses are closed, except for essential services.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. It is one of the most significant religious holidays in São Tomé and Príncipe. Although it is primarily a Christian observance, Christmas is celebrated by people of all backgrounds, and it is a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, and feasting.
On Christmas Day, many people in São Tomé and Príncipe attend church services to celebrate the birth of Christ. Afterward, families gather for meals, exchanging presents, and enjoying time together. Traditional foods are served, and the streets may be decorated with Christmas lights, especially in the capital. It is a day of joy and reflection on the values of love, peace, and goodwill.
Duration
Christmas Day is observed for one day, and businesses, government offices, and schools are closed to allow for celebration.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, especially Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, although essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in São Tomé and Príncipe
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Carnival | Variable (February/March) | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Good Friday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | Christians, Government Employees |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Independence Day | July 12 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | 1 day | Christians (Catholics) |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | 1 day | Christians |
| Republic Day | November 5 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
