Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean off East Africa, is a popular tourist destination for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. But the country is also home to a unique culture and rich traditions, including an impressive list of public holidays and celebrations.

 

Every year, the citizens of the Seychelles enjoy a range of official holidays and celebrations, from religious and cultural events to national days of remembrance. From the spectacular Creole Festival to the annual Independence Day celebrations, here’s a look at the public holidays and celebrations of Seychelles.

 

Independence Day

 

Independence Day is a national holiday celebrated in Seychelles every June 29. It marks the day in 1976 when the country officially became independent from the United Kingdom. On this day, the Seychellois commemorate their country’s independence with parades, street parties, and speeches from the Prime Minister.

 

The day is also marked by a military parade and a “Salute to the Flag” ceremony, where the national flag is hoisted and honored. In the evening, a fireworks display takes place to end the day’s festivities.

 

Labour Day

 

Labour Day, celebrated on May 1, is a national holiday in Seychelles that recognizes and honors the contributions of the country’s working class. On this day, people take part in marches, rallies, and other gatherings to show their support for workers’ rights.

 

Labour Day is also a time to recognize the achievements of the Seychelles’ working class and to honor their commitment to the country. It is also a day to remember the struggles and sacrifices that workers have made for the nation’s development.

 

Creole Festival

 

The Creole Festival is one of the most important public celebrations in Seychelles. Held annually in October, the festival celebrates the culture and heritage of the Seychellois people. During this three-day event, locals and tourists alike come together to enjoy a range of cultural activities such as live music, traditional dance, and food.

 

The Creole Festival is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of the Seychelles. It’s also a time for people to come together and share in the country’s history and traditions.

 

National Day

 

National Day is celebrated in Seychelles every June 18. It marks the day in 1977 when the country officially adopted a new constitution. On this day, the Seychellois celebrate their achievements in nation-building and take part in parades, parties, and other festivities.

 

Throughout the day, national flags are flown and speeches are made in honor of the country’s unique identity. In the evening, a grand fireworks display takes place to end the day’s celebrations.

 

Armed Forces Day

 

Armed Forces Day is celebrated every October 15 in Seychelles to honor the country’s military. On this day, the Seychellois commemorate the sacrifices of their servicemen and women with a military parade and special events.

 

Throughout the day, the country’s servicemen and women march in formation, fly flags, and receive awards. At the end of the day, a fireworks display is held to honor the Seychelles’ military.

 

Remembrance Day

 

Remembrance Day is a national holiday celebrated in Seychelles every November 11. It marks the day in 1918 when World War I officially ended. On this day, the Seychellois commemorate their country’s fallen soldiers with a moment of silence and other commemorative ceremonies.

 

Throughout the day, the Seychellois honor their country’s war heroes with the laying of wreaths, the playing of the national anthem, and the sounding of a two-minute siren. At the end of the day, a grand fireworks display takes place to end the day’s festivities.

 

New Year’s Day

 

New Year’s Day is a national holiday celebrated in Seychelles every January 1. It marks the start of the new calendar year and is a time for the Seychellois to come together and celebrate the past year’s successes and look forward to the future.

 

On New Year’s Day, the Seychellois enjoy a range of festivities, such as parties, parades, and fireworks. It’s also a time for families to get together and spend quality time with one another.

 

These are just some of the public holidays and celebrations of Seychelles. There are many more, from the country’s unique Creole festivals to its national days of remembrance. Each of these holidays and celebrations is an opportunity for the Seychellois to come together and celebrate their country’s unique culture and heritage.

 

Seychelles Public Holidays 2023

This page contains a national calendar of all 2023 public holidays for Seychelles. These dates may be modified as official changes are announced, so please check back regularly for updates.

Date Day Holiday
1 Jan Sun New Year’s Day
2 Jan Mon New Year Holiday
3 Jan Tue New Year Holiday
7 Apr Fri Good Friday
10 Apr Mon Easter Monday
1 May Mon Labour Day
8 Jun Thu Corpus Christi
18 Jun Sun Constitution Day
19 Jun Mon Constitution Day Holiday
29 Jun Thu Independence (National) Day
15 Aug Tue Assumption Day
1 Nov Wed All Saints’ Day
8 Dec Fri Immaculate Conception
25 Dec Mon Christmas Day