The Cambridge dictionary defines holiday as “a time when someone does not go to work or school but is free to do what they want, such us travel or relax”. Check out the complete List of all National or Public Holidays in Ghana.
In Ghana, there are about 17 days in each year known to have been set aside to be observed as public holidays. As said by John Clayton, that all holidays can be good times, most Ghanaians, especially government workers and students, enjoy these days. We hope you find creative ways to enjoy holiday seasons.
Some of these days are meant to celebrate the nation, religion, a dignitary or a particular group of people. You may use these days to visit one of the best tourist sites in Ghana.
List of All Public Holidays in Ghana and What They Stand for.
JANUARY
- New Year Day – 1st January
The 1st of January is the beginning of every year. Ghana, just like many other countries all over the world, has this day marked as a public holiday. It is a day meant for resting and preparation for the days ahead in the New Year.
FEBRUARY
There is no public Holiday in February.
MARCH
- Independence Day – 6th March
- Good Friday – 30th March 2018
- Holy Saturday – 31st March 2018
On the 6th of March, 1957, Ghana was declared an independent nation. This independence is so dear to Ghana that her people cannot afford to forget such a day.
Therefore, for the celebration of independence which was achieved by our forefathers, especially the Big Six, this day has been set aside as one of the public holidays in Ghana. On each 6th day of March, a national celebration is done in the form of marching and cultural display.
Therefore, for the celebration of independence which was achieved by our forefathers, especially the Big Six, this day has been set aside as one of the public holidays in Ghana. On each 6th day of March, a national celebration is done in the form of marching and cultural display.
APRIL
- Easter Sunday/ Easter Day – 1st April 2018
- Easter Monday – 2nd April 2018
Four days fall within the Easter celebration period for Christians. They are observed as public holidays in Ghana and many other countries. Their days of observation are not fixed but occur between March and April.
Good Friday, which is the first holiday of the Easter season, is a day for the commemoration of the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. It is usually observed by fasting, worship and prayer services and almsgiving.
The day after Easter Sunday, Easter Monday is equally special to Christians. It is also observed by organizing church services.
MAY
- May Day – 1st May
- Mothers Day – Sunday 13th May 2018 (not a public holiday)
- African Union Day – 25th May
May Day is also known as Workers’ day or Labor Day. The 1st of May is a holiday not only in Ghana but in other countries as well; it is an international holiday. It is set aside to celebrate workers and motivate them to do more.
The unity of African countries, which was inspired by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, made it necessary for 25th May to be recognized and made a holiday in African countries including Ghana. This day is honored by Africans with regards the foundation of the Organization of African Unity.
JUNE
- Id ul Fitr – Friday 15th June 2018
- Fathers’ Day – Sunday 17th June 2018 (not a public holiday)
Eid-Al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan fasting. It is observed by praying and charity-giving. This day has been declared a national holiday in Ghana by the Ministry of Interior.
JULY
- Republic Day – Sunday 1st July 2018 (to be observed on Monday 2nd July 2018)
On July 1, 1960, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana, proclaimed the nation as a republic. Since then, every first day of July is been declared as a public holiday.
This year, the Republic day is a Saturday. Hence it would be observed the next day (Monday) which is 2nd July 2018.
Check out: Ghana Government Websites and Information.
AUGUST
- Id ul Adha – Wednesday 22nd August 2018
SEPTEMBER
- Founder’s Day – 21st September
Every 21st of September in Ghana is a day of celebration of a legend. This day, the birthday of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is set aside to honor him and reflect on the legacy he left behind.
OCTOBER
There is no Public Holiday in October.
NOVEMBER
There is no Public Holiday in November.
DECEMBER
- Farmers’ Day – Friday 7th December 2018
- Christmas Day – Tuesday 25th December 2018
- Boxing Day – Wednesday 26th December 2018
Farmers’ day is celebrated every 1st Friday of December. It is a day of honor and respect to farmers and fishermen, whereby the best and hardworking ones among them are awarded.
25th December is a joyful day to most Christians worldwide. In Ghana and other countries, it is a public holiday to all, irrespective of the religion you belong. It is a day set aside for the commemoration of the birth of Christ.
Boxing Day follows Christmas day directly, that is 26th December. In Ghana, it is mostly celebrated by gift giving to loved ones and the less privileged. Others use it as an opportunity to have fun and play some games with friends and loved ones.
May you enjoy these days. You may find this article also helpful: Ghana Zip Code; What is the Zip Code for Ghana?
