Are you planning your vacations for 2026 or would you like to know more about public holidays in Madagascar?
Pursuant to the provisions of Article 115 of Law No. 2024-014 of August 14, 2024, relating to the Labor Code, the following days are declared public holidays, non-working days, and paid days for the year 2026
In order to fully enjoy your rights relating to public holidays, it is important to know how they are applied. Decree No. 62-150 of March 28, 1962, which determines the terms and conditions for weekly rest days, non-working public holidays, and paid public holidays, remains in force.
Public holidays in 2026
Thursday, January 1 : New Year’s Day
Like many cultures, January 1 marks the start of the new year. For us Malagasy people, it is a time for families to get together over a traditional meal, the perfect opportunity to exchange wishes for happiness.
Sunday, March 8 : International Women’s Day
Unlike Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day, March 8 is not a commercial holiday for “giving flowers.” It is a day to demand equal rights (access to education, equal pay) and fight against violence against women.
Sunday, March 29 : Day of Remembrance for those who died in the events of 1947
It is a tribute to the courage of the “Mpitolona” (the resistance fighters/combatants). A moment of national reflection to honor those who sacrificed their lives so that Madagascar could once again become a free and sovereign nation.
Sunday, April 5 : Easter
For the Christian world, this period represents the high point of the liturgical year, symbolizing the transition from darkness to light and the victory of life over decline.
Monday, April 6 : Easter Monday
Easter Monday is an official holiday.
Easter picnics: Families leave city centers to head to the countryside, lakesides, parks, or places such as Ambohimanga.
Shows: This is the time of year when the most famous artists organize large outdoor concerts (podiums).
Friday, May 1: Labor Day
Workers in Madagascar celebrate this day by demanding their rights and promoting fair working conditions.
Thursday, May 11: Ascension Day
Celebrated 40 days after Easter. In Madagascar, this day is often marked by religious services and family gatherings.
Sunday, May 24 : Pentecost
Pentecost, celebrated 50 days after Easter, marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. It is an important holiday for the Malagasy Christian community, with special masses and collective prayers organized.
Monday, May 25: Pentecost Monday
Like Easter Monday, this day is an opportunity for family reunions, punctuated by outdoor picnics or cultural outings.
Friday, June 26 : National Holiday (Madagascar Independence Day)
On June 26, 1960, Madagascar gained independence from France. This date is marked by parades, official speeches, and celebrations throughout the country.
Public holidays in the second half of 2026
Saturday, August 15: Assumption Day
The Assumption, celebrated on August 15, is a major holiday in Madagascar.
Sunday, November 1: All Saints’ Day
Cette journée occupe une place singulière à Madagascar. Elle illustre la manière dont la religion chrétienne s’est ancrée dans le paysage culturel malgache, devenant un moment privilégié de rassemblement et de spiritualité pour la population.
Friday, December 25 : Christmas
In Madagascar, Christmas is undoubtedly the warmest celebration of the year.
As with Easter, churches play a central role.
Christmas Eve : Churches organize vigils on the evening of December 24, with choirs, plays, and poems recited by children.
The Cult of the 25th: This is a moment of great elegance. Families put on their finest clothes (the famous “akanjo fety”) to attend Christmas Mass.
Other public holidays specified in the decree
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, according to the calendar set by the Muslim community.
Malagasy New Year (Taombaovao Malagasy), according to the date set during national consultations.
National Culture Day, on a date set by the Ministry of Communication and Culture.
Madagascar’s public holidays reflect the rich history and culture of the Big Island. These commemorations and festivities serve to strengthen the nation’s identity. To help you navigate the business environment in Madagascar with confidence, MDG Services is here to support your development and ensure the success of your business.