Mauritius is often cited as a model of multicultural harmony, and nowhere is this more visible than in our calendar. The Public Holidays in Mauritius 2026 reflect the diverse tapestry of our island, featuring festivals from Hindu, Christian, Muslim, and Chinese traditions, alongside significant national historical dates.
Whether you are a local planning your annual leave to maximize long weekends, or a traveler looking to experience the vibrant culture of the island, knowing these dates is essential. In 2026, the calendar throws us a few curveballs, specifically, several major festivals falling on Sundays, but it also offers some fantastic opportunities for extended breaks.
If you are planning a trip to align with these festivities, be sure to check our guide on the best time to visit Mauritius to ensure the weather matches your itinerary.
Here is your ultimate guide to the Public Holidays in Mauritius in 2026, including the official dates, the cultural significance of each, and what you can expect during these celebrations.
Official List of Public Holidays in Mauritius 2026
Based on General Notice No. 1195 of 2025, here is the confirmed schedule for the year.
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year | 01 January | Thursday |
| New Year | 02 January | Friday |
| Abolition of Slavery | 01 February | Sunday |
| Thaipoosam Cavadee | 01 February | Sunday |
| Maha Shivaratree | 15 February | Sunday |
| Chinese Spring Festival | 17 February | Tuesday |
| Independence and Republic Day | 12 March | Thursday |
| Ugaadi | 19 March | Thursday |
| Eid-Ul-Fitr | 21 March* | Saturday |
| Labour Day | 01 May | Friday |
| Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary | 15 August | Saturday |
| Ganesh Chaturthi | 16 September | Wednesday |
| Arrival of Indentured Labourers | 02 November | Monday |
| Divali | 08 November | Sunday |
| Christmas | 25 December | Friday |
*Note: The exact date of Eid-Ul-Fitr is subject to confirmation depending on the visibility of the moon.
Contents
Detailed Breakdown of 2026 Holidays
To truly understand the rhythm of the island, it helps to know what these days represent. For a deeper dive into the spiritual aspect of these festivals, you can read our article on religion in Mauritius.
New Year (01 & 02 January)
Days: Thursday & Friday
Mauritius is unique in that it allocates two public holidays for the New Year. In 2026, this creates a massive 4-day weekend (Thursday to Sunday). This is the peak of the summer festive season.
For locals, the 1st of January is usually reserved for family lunches, while the 2nd often involves visiting extended family or heading to the beach. If you are visiting, expect a quiet atmosphere in towns as most businesses remain closed, but the beaches will be lively. This is a great time to explore hidden gems in Mauritius if you want to escape the crowds.
The Double Holiday: Abolition of Slavery & Thaipoosam Cavadee (01 February)
Day: Sunday
In a rare occurrence for Public Holidays in Mauritius in 2026, two major events fall on the exact same day: Sunday, February 1st.
- Abolition of Slavery: This commemorates the end of slavery in Mauritius in 1835. Official ceremonies are usually held at Le Morne Cultural Landscape.
- Thaipoosam Cavadee: This is one of the most spectacular Tamil festivals. Devotees pierce their bodies with needles and carry wooden structures (Cavadees) to the temple. It is a visually stunning display of faith.
Because both fall on a Sunday, there is no “day off” for workers, but the cultural vibrancy on the streets will be intense.
Maha Shivaratree (15 February)
Day: Sunday
Another major festival falling on a Sunday in 2026 is Maha Shivaratree. This is the “Great Night of Shiva.” In the days leading up to the 15th, you will see thousands of pilgrims dressed in white walking towards Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), a sacred crater lake.
If you are driving during this week, be patient, as many roads are dedicated to pilgrims. It is a spiritual experience unlike any other.
Chinese Spring Festival (17 February)
Day: Tuesday
The Chinese New Year in 2026 falls on a Tuesday. The celebrations are centered in Port Louis, specifically Chinatown. Expect lion dances, firecrackers (to ward off evil spirits), and an abundance of red lanterns. It is a fantastic time to try some festive Sino-Mauritian dishes, check out our list of 10 must-try foods in Mauritius to know what to look for.
Independence and Republic Day (12 March)
Day: Thursday
This day marks the independence of Mauritius from Britain in 1968 and its status as a Republic in 1992. The official flag-raising ceremony usually takes place at the Champ de Mars in Port Louis. It is a patriotic day, with the Mauritian flag flying from almost every house and car.
Ugaadi (19 March)
Day: Thursday
Ugaadi marks the New Year for the Telegu community. It is a time for cleaning the house, buying new clothes, and preparing special sweets. Culturally, it signifies new beginnings.
Eid-Ul-Fitr (21 March – Subject to Moon)
Day: Saturday
Eid marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. While the provisional date is Saturday, March 21st, this depends on the sighting of the moon. In Mauritius, Eid is famous for the sharing of briani (biryani) and vermicelli pudding among neighbors of all faiths.
Labour Day (01 May)
Day: Friday
Labour Day in 2026 falls on a Friday, granting a lovely 3-day long weekend. Traditionally, this is a highly political day in Mauritius, with rallies held by major political parties in various towns. However, for the non-political, it is a classic “beach picnic” day.
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (15 August)
Day: Saturday
This Christian festival celebrates Mary’s ascent to heaven. The focal point of this holiday is usually the Marie Reine de la Paix church in Port Louis. Since it falls on a Saturday, it won’t affect the working week for those working Monday to Friday.
Ganesh Chaturthi (16 September)
Day: Wednesday
Celebrated by the Marathi community, this festival honors the elephant-headed god, Ganesha. On this Wednesday afternoon, you will see processions heading toward beaches and riverbanks to immerse clay statues of Ganesha into the water, symbolizing his return to the cosmos.
Arrival of Indentured Labourers (02 November)
Day: Monday
This historic date commemorates the arrival of the first indentured laborers from India at the Aapravasi Ghat in 1834. In 2026, this holiday falls on a Monday, creating another welcome long weekend for the Mauritian workforce. It is a day of reflection on our ancestors and heritage. For more on this history, read our guide to Mauritian culture.
Divali (08 November)
Day: Sunday
For those searching for the Diwali holiday in Mauritius 2026, please note that the Festival of Lights falls on Sunday, November 8th.
While it is unfortunate for employees that it falls on a Sunday, the atmosphere will be magical. Houses across the island will be decorated with clay lamps and electric lights. It is a festival enjoyed by all communities, known for the sharing of sweet cakes. Driving through the villages at night to see the lights is a must-do activity.
Christmas (25 December)
Day: Friday
Christmas in Mauritius is a summer affair. In 2026, it falls on a Friday, gifting everyone a final long weekend to close out the year. Expect blooming Flamboyant trees, tropical fruits, and barbecues rather than snow and roast turkeys.
Long Weekends in Mauritius 2026: Planning Your Leave
If you are looking to maximize your time off, 2026 offers a few strategic opportunities. Here are the long weekends generated by the official Public Holidays in Mauritius 2026:
- The New Year Super-Weekend:
- Dates: Thursday 01 Jan – Sunday 04 Jan.
- Duration: 4 Days.
- Strategy: No leave required!
- Labour Day Weekend:
- Dates: Friday 01 May – Sunday 03 May.
- Duration: 3 Days.
- Strategy: Perfect for a short “staycation.”
- Indentured Labourers Weekend:
- Dates: Saturday 31 Oct – Monday 02 Nov.
- Duration: 3 Days.
- Strategy: Great weather for hiking. Check out the best hikes in Mauritius to plan a route.
- Christmas Weekend:
- Dates: Friday 25 Dec – Sunday 27 Dec.
- Duration: 3 Days.
The “Bridge” Opportunities:
Since Independence Day (12 March) and Ugaadi (19 March) both fall on Thursdays, taking the subsequent Fridays off (13th and 20th March) will give you two separate 4-day weekends in March.
Impact on Travelers
If you are visiting Mauritius during these Public Holidays in 2026, here is what you need to know:
- Banks and Offices: Will be closed on all the dates listed above.
- Public Transport: Buses operate on a reduced schedule (Sunday timetable). If you are relying on public transport, check our Mauritius Metro Guide and bus schedules in advance.
- Shops and Supermarkets: Hypermarkets usually remain open until noon on public holidays, but smaller shops will be closed.
- The Sunday Effect: With major festivals like Cavadee, Maha Shivaratree, and Diwali falling on Sundays in 2026, expect traffic congestion around religious sites on weekends, but a very quiet atmosphere in the cities (Port Louis/Ebène).
Conclusion
The list of Public Holidays in Mauritius in 2026 offers a fascinating glimpse into the soul of the island. While the working population might mourn the loss of three holidays to Sundays (Abolition of Slavery, Cavadee, and Diwali), the year still provides excellent long weekend opportunities in January, May, November, and December.
Whether you are here to witness the piercing rituals of Cavadee, the lights of Diwali, or simply to enjoy the tropical sun during the New Year break, 2026 promises to be a vibrant year for culture in Mauritius.
Start planning your itinerary now, perhaps a 7-day Mauritius itinerary, and make sure your dates align with these spectacular celebrations!
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