Guyana celebrates more public holidays than almost any country in the world - 18 official holidays in 2026 - reflecting its extraordinary cultural diversity. Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and national observances fill the calendar, creating both incredible opportunities for cultural immersion and potential challenges for travelers who need services.
This guide takes a practical approach: we'll help you decide whether to embrace the festivities (for unforgettable cultural experiences) or plan around them (if you need banks, government offices, or a quieter trip). Plus, 2026 is Guyana's Diamond Jubilee year - 60 years of independence - making this an especially significant time to visit.
Complete 2026 Holiday Calendar
Here's every public holiday in Guyana for 2026 at a glance. Save this table for your trip planning:
| Date | Holiday | Day | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year's Day | Thursday | National |
| February 23 | Republic Day / Mashramani | Monday | National |
| March 3 | Phagwah (Holi) | Tuesday | Hindu |
| March 19-20* | Eid ul-Fitr | Thu-Fri | Muslim |
| April 3 | Good Friday | Friday | Christian |
| April 6 | Easter Monday | Monday | Christian |
| May 1 | Labour Day | Friday | National |
| May 5 | Indian Arrival Day | Tuesday | National |
| May 26 | Independence Day (Diamond Jubilee) | Tuesday | National |
| May 26-27* | Eid ul-Adha | Tue-Wed | Muslim |
| July 6 | CARICOM Day | Monday | National |
| August 1 | Emancipation Day | Saturday | National |
| August 25* | Youman Nabi | Tuesday | Muslim |
| November 8 | Diwali (Deepavali) | Sunday | Hindu |
| December 25 | Christmas Day | Friday | Christian |
| December 26 | Boxing Day | Saturday | Christian |
* Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings and may shift by 1-2 days. Dates shown are astronomical predictions.
Notable Coincidence in 2026
Eid ul-Adha is predicted to fall on May 26-27, 2026 - potentially overlapping with Independence Day. This could create an extraordinary dual celebration, but also means even higher demand for accommodations and services during this period.
Should You Embrace or Avoid Holidays?
The answer depends entirely on what kind of trip you're planning. Here's a framework to help you decide:
Embrace the Holidays If...
- You want authentic cultural experiences
- Parades, music, and festivities excite you
- You're flexible and spontaneous
- Meeting locals is a priority
- You've booked accommodations in advance
- Your itinerary focuses on experiences, not errands
Plan Around Holidays If...
- You need banking or government services
- You're on a tight, inflexible schedule
- You prefer quieter, less crowded experiences
- You're traveling for business
- You haven't booked accommodations yet
- You need reliable transportation schedules
What's Open and Closed on Holidays
Typically Closed
- Banks: All banks close on public holidays. Plan cash withdrawals in advance.
- Government offices: Immigration, permits, and administrative services unavailable.
- Schools and universities: Closed for all public holidays.
- Many retail stores: Especially smaller shops and markets.
- Post offices: No mail services on holidays.
Usually Open (with possible reduced hours)
- Hotels: Full service continues for guests.
- Major restaurants: Especially in Georgetown and tourist areas.
- Eco-lodges: Wilderness lodges operate independently of holidays.
- Tour operators: Pre-booked tours typically proceed as scheduled.
- Supermarkets: Large chains often open with reduced hours.
- Gas stations: Essential services remain available.
- Pharmacies: Some remain open for emergencies.
Important Planning Note
For Kaieteur Falls flights, Rupununi tours, and eco-lodge stays, holidays have minimal impact since these operators work on their own schedules. However, always confirm your booking a few days before departure, especially during major celebration periods.
Major Holidays In-Depth
Mashramani / Republic Day
Guyana's biggest party. Mashramani ("Mash") celebrates Guyana becoming a Republic in 1970 with Caribbean carnival energy. The 2026 celebration promises to be the "biggest ever" with over $120 million in government investment, enhanced as part of Diamond Jubilee festivities.
What to expect: Colorful costume band parades through Georgetown on Vlissengen Road, steel pan panorama competitions, calypso and soca monarch contests, float parades, and street parties. Festivities span all of February, building to the climax on the 23rd.
Key 2026 events:
- February 21: Masharama at National Park
- February 22: Splashramani at Providence Stadium
- February 23: Grand Costume Parade
- February 24-25: Continued celebrations, horse racing, Literary Festival
Travel Tips for Mashramani
Book Georgetown hotels 2-3 months ahead. Arrive early on parade day for the best viewing spots along Vlissengen Road. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water - you'll be on your feet for hours. The energy is infectious - don't be surprised if you end up dancing in the streets!
Phagwah (Holi)
The Festival of Colors. Originally a Hindu spring festival celebrating good over evil, Phagwah has become a beloved celebration for all Guyanese. People of every background join in throwing colored powder (abeer/abrack) and water at each other.
What to expect: Wear white clothes you don't mind getting permanently stained in every color of the rainbow. Children armed with water guns (pichkaris) spare no one. The main celebration in Georgetown is at the Mandir in Prashad Nagar, but spontaneous celebrations happen everywhere.
Cultural note: The festival begins a month early with the planting of a Holika (castor oil plant), which is ceremonially burned the night before Phagwah, commemorating the triumph of the devoted Prahlad over evil.
Travel Tips for Phagwah
Leave valuables at the hotel - you will get wet and colorful. Embrace it! Many Guyanese diaspora return home specifically for Phagwah. Indo-Guyanese communities make up about 40% of the population, so celebrations are widespread and enthusiastic.
Independence Day - Diamond Jubilee
The main event of 2026. Exactly 60 years since the Golden Arrowhead flag was first raised, this Diamond Jubilee celebration will be the largest in Guyana's history. President Ali has called it "a grand homecoming" for the diaspora.
What to expect: Week-long celebrations begin with the Guyana Food, Arts, and Music Festival. On Independence Eve, a flag-raising ceremony at Durban Park is followed by a presidential address. Midnight fireworks usher in the day, followed by military parades, cultural performances from all six ethnic groups, and nationwide festivities.
Diamond Jubilee specials: Enhanced investment in cultural programming, tourism promotions, special commemorative events, and the potential overlap with Eid ul-Adha creating a unique multi-faith celebration.
Travel Tips for Independence Day 2026
This is THE year to experience Guyana's national pride. Book accommodations 3+ months in advance. Consider wearing gold, green, red, and black (the national colors). Many Guyanese living abroad will return for this milestone, so flights may be more expensive and less available than usual.
Easter (Good Friday & Easter Monday)
Kites fill the sky. Guyana may be the only country that celebrates Easter by flying kites - a tradition believed to have started when Chinese laborers told plantation owners that kites symbolize Jesus' resurrection to heaven.
What to expect: From Good Friday through Easter Monday, colorful kites of every size and design soar along the Atlantic coast and in open spaces throughout the country. Families gather for picnics, traditional hot cross buns, and the joy of kite-flying competitions.
Also on Easter weekend: The famous Rupununi Rodeo in Lethem and the Bartica Regatta - both drawing crowds from across the country.
Travel Tips for Easter
The seawall in Georgetown offers the best wind for kite flying. Some families still hand-make elaborate kites, though most now purchase them. If you want to experience the Rupununi Rodeo, book Lethem accommodations well in advance - it's the region's biggest event.
Indian Arrival Day
Celebrating heritage. On May 5, 1838, the ship Whitby arrived with 396 indentured laborers from India - the first of nearly 240,000 who would come to Guyana by 1920. Today their descendants make up about 44% of Guyana's population.
What to expect: Parades featuring traditional Indian costumes, music, and dance. Cultural programs celebrating Indo-Guyanese contributions to the nation. Traditional Indian dishes are prepared and shared. The holiday commemorates not just Indian arrivals but all ethnic groups who came as indentured servants.
Travel Tips for Indian Arrival Day
An excellent opportunity to experience Indo-Guyanese culture and cuisine. Visit Hindu temples for special programs. Taste authentic Guyanese-Indian dishes like curry, roti, and dal puri. The celebrations reflect Guyana's national motto: "One People, One Nation, One Destiny."
Emancipation Day
Freedom remembered. Commemorating the abolition of slavery across the British Empire in 1834 and full freedom in 1838. A day of cultural pride and historical reflection for Afro-Guyanese communities.
What to expect: Cultural activities at the Botanical Gardens and National Park in Georgetown. Traditional African attire, including colorful female head wraps. Drumming, dancing, speeches by officials, and traditional cook-up (a one-pot rice dish).
Travel Tips for Emancipation Day
Public exhibits on Emancipation themes appear in late July. Official speeches are broadcast on radio and TV. A meaningful day to learn about Guyana's history and the resilience of its African-descended population.
Diwali (Deepavali)
Festival of Lights. The Hindu celebration of light over darkness transforms Guyana with thousands of diyas (oil lamps), fireworks, and decorated homes. Believed to have arrived with the first indentured workers in 1853.
What to expect: Spectacular motorcades with illuminated floats through Georgetown (organized by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha since 1974). Homes decorated with lights and diyas. Distribution of sweets, new clothes, and family gatherings. Hindu temples hold special pujas (prayers).
Travel Tips for Diwali
The motorcade is a must-see - crowds line the streets to watch beautifully decorated vehicles depicting Hindu deities. Many businesses close, but the visual spectacle makes this one of the best holidays to experience in Guyana. Book accommodations in advance as diaspora visitors often return for Diwali.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
- New Year's DayThursday, Jan 1
Relatively quiet month. Good for wildlife viewing as it's the short rainy season. Some tourists visit to escape Northern Hemisphere winter.
- Republic Day / MashramaniMonday, Feb 23
Peak festival month! Mashramani activities throughout February. Dry season begins. Book Georgetown hotels early. The biggest Mash ever planned for Diamond Jubilee year.
- Phagwah (Holi)Tuesday, Mar 3
- Eid ul-Fitr*Thu-Fri, Mar 19-20
Two major celebrations close together. Dry season continues - excellent travel conditions. Colorful Phagwah is unforgettable if you don't mind getting drenched in paint!
- Good FridayFriday, Apr 3
- Easter MondayMonday, Apr 6
Easter brings kite-flying traditions, Rupununi Rodeo, and Bartica Regatta. End of dry season. Four-day weekend means many businesses closed Friday through Monday.
- Labour DayFriday, May 1
- Indian Arrival DayTuesday, May 5
- Independence Day (Diamond Jubilee)Tuesday, May 26
- Eid ul-Adha*Tue-Wed, May 26-27
The biggest month of 2026! Four holidays including the Diamond Jubilee. Potential Independence Day + Eid ul-Adha overlap. Rainy season begins but celebrations continue. Book everything far in advance!
- CARICOM DayMonday, Jul 6
Celebrates Caribbean unity and the 1973 Treaty of Chaguaramas. Rainy season continues. Lower tourist numbers mean better prices, but roads to interior may be challenging.
- Emancipation DaySaturday, Aug 1
- Youman Nabi*Tuesday, Aug 25
Emancipation celebrations honor African heritage. Guyana Festival may be held this month as part of Diamond Jubilee programming. Heritage Month activities for Indigenous communities.
- Diwali (Deepavali)Sunday, Nov 8
The Festival of Lights illuminates the nation. Second dry season makes travel easier. An excellent time to visit for both celebrations and wildlife viewing.
- Christmas DayFriday, Dec 25
- Boxing DaySaturday, Dec 26
Traditional Christmas celebrations. Many Guyanese diaspora return home, so book early. Short rainy season begins. Pepperpot (traditional Amerindian stew) is served at Christmas gatherings.
Planning Tips for Holiday Travel
Booking Accommodations
- For major celebrations (Mashramani, Independence Day, Diwali): Book 2-3 months in advance, especially for Georgetown hotels like the Marriott and Pegasus.
- For the Diamond Jubilee (May 2026): Consider booking even earlier as the diaspora will return in large numbers.
- Budget tip: Prices are typically lower April-May and September-October (shoulder seasons), except during specific holidays.
- For eco-lodges: Holiday timing matters less as these operate independently, but always confirm bookings.
Managing Money
- Withdraw cash before holidays: Banks close completely on public holidays. ATMs may run low during extended celebrations.
- Bank hours: Typically 8am-2pm, with some branches reopening 3pm-5pm (Monday-Friday only).
- Credit cards: Accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but cash is still king in Guyana.
Transportation Considerations
- Minibuses: May run reduced schedules on holidays, and can be very crowded the days before/after major celebrations.
- Internal flights: Pre-booked Kaieteur Falls and Rupununi flights operate on their own schedules, largely unaffected by holidays.
- Car rentals: Book in advance for holiday periods; rental offices may close.
- Taxis: Generally available but may charge higher rates during celebrations.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Now that you know when Guyana celebrates, plan your itinerary with our comprehensive travel resources.
Start PlanningBest Holidays for Cultural Immersion
If you specifically want to experience Guyanese culture at its most vibrant, prioritize these holidays:
- Mashramani (February 23): The ultimate Guyanese party. Carnival energy, incredible costumes, and national pride.
- Independence Day 2026 (May 26): Once-in-a-lifetime Diamond Jubilee. This level of celebration won't repeat for another 10 years.
- Phagwah (March 3): Pure joy in color form. No other experience quite like getting covered in paint with laughing strangers.
- Diwali (November 8): Visually spectacular with the illuminated motorcade and thousands of lights.
- Easter (April 3-6): Unique kite-flying tradition, plus Rupununi Rodeo if you venture to Lethem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays does Guyana have in 2026?
Guyana has 18 public holidays in 2026, making it one of the countries with the most holidays in the world. These include religious holidays from Hindu, Muslim, and Christian traditions, as well as national observances like Independence Day and Republic Day (Mashramani).
What is special about Guyana's Independence Day in 2026?
May 26, 2026 marks Guyana's Diamond Jubilee - 60 years of independence from Britain. The government has announced the largest celebration in the nation's history, with special events, cultural showcases, and a "grand homecoming" for the diaspora. Expect enhanced festivities throughout the year.
Are banks and businesses open on public holidays in Guyana?
Banks, government offices, and many businesses close on public holidays in Guyana. Some restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions remain open. During major festivals like Mashramani and Independence Day, expect most businesses to be closed but street vendors and celebration-related activities to be abundant.
When is Mashramani 2026?
Mashramani 2026 falls on Monday, February 23rd (Republic Day). However, celebrations span the entire month of February, with the main events including Masharama at National Park on February 21st, Splashramani at Providence Stadium on February 22nd, and the grand costume parade on February 23rd.
Should I visit Guyana during a holiday or avoid them?
It depends on what you want. Visit during holidays like Mashramani, Phagwah, or Independence Day for incredible cultural experiences and festivities. Avoid holidays if you need banks, government services, or want a quiet trip. For wildlife tours and eco-lodges, holidays have minimal impact as these operate independently.
What are the dates for Eid in Guyana 2026?
Eid ul-Fitr 2026 is expected around March 19-20 (end of Ramadan), and Eid ul-Adha is expected around May 26-27. Note that exact dates depend on moon sightings and may shift by a day. Interestingly, Eid ul-Adha 2026 may coincide with Independence Day, creating a unique dual celebration.
When is Diwali in Guyana 2026?
Diwali (Deepavali) falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026. As a major Hindu festival, it's celebrated enthusiastically in Guyana with the lighting of diyas (oil lamps), fireworks, motorcades with decorated floats, and family gatherings. The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha hosts spectacular celebrations in Georgetown.
How far in advance should I book hotels for Guyana holidays?
For major celebrations like Mashramani, Independence Day, and Diwali, book 2-3 months in advance. Georgetown hotels (Marriott, Pegasus) fill quickly during events. For the 2026 Diamond Jubilee celebrations, booking even earlier is recommended as many diaspora Guyanese will return home.
Last updated: January 2026. Islamic holiday dates are based on astronomical predictions and may shift based on actual moon sightings. Always confirm specific dates closer to your travel time. Check our events page for the latest festival schedules and details.