Public Holidays in Ghana in 2024
Ghana, a country located in West Africa, celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are deeply rooted in the nation’s history, culture, and religious traditions. In 2024, Ghana will observe several public holidays, each with its own significance and customs.
National Holidays
New Year’s Day – January 1st
New Year’s Day in Ghana, as in many countries, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is celebrated with joy and festivity, often involving church services, family gatherings, and special meals. Many Ghanaians also engage in cultural events and music festivals to usher in the new year.
Independence Day – March 6th
Independence Day in Ghana commemorates the country’s independence from British colonial rule, which was achieved on March 6, 1957. It is one of the most important national holidays in Ghana, celebrated with patriotic fervor and pride. The day is marked by official ceremonies, parades, cultural displays, and festivities across the country.
Good Friday – Date varies (Christian calendar)
Good Friday is observed by Christians worldwide as the day of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and death. In Ghana, it is a public holiday, and many people attend church services and participate in religious processions and rituals. It is a solemn day of reflection and spiritual contemplation.
Easter Monday – Date varies (Christian calendar)
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and is observed as a public holiday in Ghana. It is a time for family gatherings, picnics, and outings. Many people also attend church services to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and participate in Easter egg hunts and other festive activities.
May Day (Labour Day) – May 1st
May Day, also known as Labour Day, is celebrated in many countries around the world to honor the contributions of workers to society. In Ghana, it is a public holiday that is observed with events and activities organized by trade unions, workers’ associations, and government agencies. These may include rallies, marches, speeches, and cultural performances to promote workers’ rights and social justice.
Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan Eid) – Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Eid al-Fitr, also known as Ramadan Eid, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most important religious holidays for Muslims worldwide, including those in Ghana. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with special prayers, feasting, charity, and social gatherings. Families come together to share meals and exchange gifts, and many people also give alms to the less fortunate.
Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) – Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is another important Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims in Ghana and around the world. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Eid al-Adha is marked by prayers, animal sacrifices, feasting, and the distribution of meat to family, friends, and the needy.
Table of Public Holidays and Days Off
| Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Independence Day | March 6 | 1 | All |
| Good Friday | Variable | 1 | Christians |
| Easter Monday | Variable | 1 | All (especially Christians) |
| May Day | May 1 | 1 | All |
| Eid al-Fitr | Variable | 1-2 | Muslims |
| Eid al-Adha | Variable | 1-2 | Muslims |