2024 Public Holidays in Tunisia

Public Holidays in Tunisia 2024

Tunisia, a North African country known for its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, celebrates various public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the country’s religious, historical, and cultural significance and provide opportunities for Tunisians to come together and celebrate. Here is a comprehensive list and description of public holidays in Tunisia for the year 2024.

National Public Holidays

New Year’s Day – January 1st

Description: New Year’s Day in Tunisia is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a time for gatherings, parties, and celebrations with family and friends. Tunisians often exchange greetings, make resolutions, and enjoy special meals to welcome the new year.

Revolution and Youth Day – January 14th

Description: Revolution and Youth Day, also known as Revolution Day, commemorates the Tunisian Revolution of 2011, which led to the ousting of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and the establishment of a democratic government. It is a day to honor the sacrifices made by Tunisian youth during the revolution and to celebrate the country’s progress towards democracy and freedom.

Martyrs’ Day – April 9th

Description: Martyrs’ Day, also known as Commemoration Day, honors the memory of those who lost their lives during the struggle for independence and freedom in Tunisia. It commemorates the events of April 9, 1938, when Tunisians protested against French colonial rule and were met with violent repression. Martyrs’ Day is a time for reflection, remembrance, and tribute to the heroes of Tunisia’s independence movement.

Labour Day – May 1st

Description: Labour Day is celebrated worldwide to honor the contributions of workers to society. In Tunisia, it is a day for workers to advocate for their rights and to highlight labor issues. Trade unions and workers’ organizations organize rallies, marches, and events to promote workers’ rights and social justice.

Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) – Date varies

Description: Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a time of joyous celebration, feasting, and gratitude for Muslims in Tunisia. Families gather for special prayers at mosques, followed by festive meals and the exchange of gifts. Eid al-Fitr is a time for charity, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Republic Day – July 25th

Description: Republic Day commemorates the establishment of the Tunisian Republic on July 25, 1957, following the declaration of independence from French colonial rule. It is a day to celebrate Tunisia’s sovereignty, democracy, and national unity. Republic Day is marked by ceremonies, flag-raising events, cultural performances, and patriotic celebrations across the country.

Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) – Date varies

Description: Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is one of the most important festivals in Islam and is celebrated with prayers, feasting, and the sacrifice of animals. Tunisian families come together to share meals and distribute meat to the less fortunate during Eid al-Adha.

Women’s Day – August 13th

Description: Women’s Day celebrates the achievements and contributions of women to society. It commemorates the enactment of the Personal Status Code in Tunisia on August 13, 1956, which granted women legal rights and protections in areas such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance. Women’s Day is a time to recognize the progress made in advancing gender equality and to advocate for women’s rights and empowerment.

Islamic New Year – Date varies

Description: Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth for Muslims in Tunisia. Special prayers are held at mosques, and people engage in acts of charity and kindness to mark the occasion.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Date varies

Description: Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. It is observed with prayers, recitations of poetry and hymns praising the Prophet, and acts of charity. Tunisian Muslims gather at mosques to listen to sermons about the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.

Independence Day – March 20th

Description: Independence Day commemorates the independence of Tunisia from French colonial rule on March 20, 1956. It is one of the most important national holidays in the country, celebrated with patriotic fervor and pride. Independence Day is marked by flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and festive events across the nation.

Christmas Day – December 25th

Description: Christmas Day is celebrated by the Christian community in Tunisia to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Churches are adorned with nativity scenes, and homes are decorated with Christmas trees and lights. Traditional Christmas foods are enjoyed, and gifts are exchanged to spread joy and goodwill.

Table: Public Holidays and Days Off in Tunisia 2024