The government has officially released the list of public holidays planned for next year during the July 14 celebrations. In 2024, the majority of public holidays will fall on weekdays, with only three of them coinciding with a Saturday or Sunday. Below is a detailed presentation of each upcoming public holiday for the year 2024.
New Year's Eve
Monday, January 1st
Tuesday, January 2nd
To celebrate the New Year, 2024 will kick off with two consecutive days off, allowing Mauritians to gather as a family and exchange greetings.
Thaipoosam Cavadee
Thursday January 25th
Thaipoosam Cavadee is an important religious festival celebrated by the Mauritian Tamil community. It is dedicated to the god Muruga, the youngest son of the gods Shiva and Parvati. Usually held in January or February, the festival involves days of fasting and spiritual preparation before the climax of the procession. Devotees carry "cavadee", richly decorated structures, as a sign of devotion, on a long march to the Muruga temple. The procession is accompanied by traditional music and dance.
Abolition of Slavery
Thursday, February 1
February 1 marks the commemoration of the abolition of slavery in Mauritius in 1835. It's a day to remember the country's painful history, and commemorative events will take place across the island.
Spring Festival
Saturday, February 10th
Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is celebrated by the Chinese community in Mauritius. It's a time for colorful festivities, exchanging gifts and sharing traditional meals.
Maha Shivaratree
Friday March 8th
Maha Shivaratree is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Every year, thousands of pilgrims make their way to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin for devotional walks, carrying "kanwars" (sacred vessels). This is one of the island's major spiritual events.
National holiday
Tuesday March 12th
Mauritius' National Day commemorates the country's independence in 1968. It's a day to celebrate the country's sovereignty, cultural diversity and Mauritian identity.
Ugadi
Tuesday April 9th
Ugadi, according to Hindu scriptures, is the day Lord Brahma created the universe. This day marks the beginning of the new year according to the Hindu calendar and is celebrated in Mauritius by the Telegu community.
Eid-Ul-Fitr
Wednesday April 10th
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan for the Muslim community. The exact date of this celebration depends on the visibility of the moon. It's a day of celebration, sharing and solidarity, when Muslims gather for prayers and festive meals.
Labor Day
Wednesday, May 1
Celebrated around the world, Labor Day commemorates the victories of the labor movement.
Assumption Day
Thursday, August 15
The Assumption is a Christian festival celebrating the Virgin Mary's ascent to heaven. Christians in Mauritius attend special masses and take part in processions in honor of the Virgin. It's also an opportunity to try the famous "Gateau Marie", a culinary tradition much appreciated on the island.
Ganesh Chaturthi
Sunday, September 8
Ganesh Chaturti is a Hindu celebration dedicated to the god Ganesh, the god of wisdom and prosperity. Devotees honor Ganesh by performing rituals and offering prayers.
Divali
Thursday, October 31
Divali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Hindu festival symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Families light up their homes with oil lamps and candles, and share sweets with loved ones and neighbors.
Arrival of Committed Workers
Saturday, November 2nd
This day commemorates the arrival of the first indentured workers from India in Mauritius. It's an opportunity to remember their contribution to the country's history and development.
Christmas
Wednesday, December 25
Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. As in other parts of the world, Mauritians of the Christian faith attend midnight masses and gather with their families to exchange gifts and share a festive meal.
