Mayotte, a French overseas department, celebrates a rich tapestry of holidays that reflect its diverse cultural and religious heritage. From New Year’s Day and Victory Day, marking historical milestones, to significant religious observances like Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, and the Prophet’s Ascension, each holiday is a unique blend of reflection, celebration, and community spirit.
These holidays are occasions for gathering with family and friends, sharing meals, and participating in various cultural and religious activities. Whether honoring historical events, religious figures, or communal values, the holidays in Mayotte foster a sense of unity and shared tradition among its people, making each celebration a cherished part of the island’s annual calendar.
Public Holidays in Mayotte In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in mayotte 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Prophet’s Ascension | Jan 27, 2025 | Monady |
| Eid al-Fitr | Mar 30, 2025 | Sunday |
| Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Abolition Day | Apr 27, 2025 | Sunday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Victory Day | May 08, 2025 | Thursday |
| Ascension Day | May 29, 2025 | Thursday |
| Eid al-Adha | Jun 06, 2025 | Friday |
| Whit Monday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| National Day | Jul 14, 2025 | Monday |
| Assumption Day | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| The Prophet’s Birthday | Sep 05, 2025 | Saturday |
| All Saints’ Day | Nov 01, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Armistice Day | Nov 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| Know more: Public Holidays in Mauritius In 2025 |
New Year’s Day
In Mayotte, New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1st. This marks the start of the new year in the Gregorian calendar. People often celebrate by spending time with family and friends, sharing meals, giving gifts, and enjoying various activities. The night before, New Year’s Eve, is filled with parties, fireworks, and counting down to midnight. New Year’s Day is a public holiday, so most businesses and schools are closed, allowing people to rest and reflect on the past year while making resolutions for the new year.
Prophet’s Ascension
The Prophet’s Ascension, known as Lailat al-Miraj, is an important Islamic holiday in Mayotte. It commemorates the night when the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. The event is significant in Islam as it marks Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and then to heaven, guided by the angel Jibril (Gabriel). In Mayotte, the holiday is observed with special prayers and gatherings in mosques, where people reflect on the story of the ascension. Families may also prepare special meals and share them with friends and neighbors, focusing more on prayer and spiritual growth than on large-scale festivities.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a major Islamic holiday celebrated in Mayotte, marking the end of Ramadan. The holiday begins with the sighting of the new moon and a special prayer called Salat al-Eid. Families dress in their best clothes and gather for prayers, followed by visits to the graves of loved ones. The day is spent celebrating with family and friends, sharing special foods like samosas and biryani. Charity is a key aspect, with people giving Zakat al-Fitr to the poor to ensure everyone can celebrate. The holiday fosters a sense of unity and joy within the community.
Easter Monday
Easter Monday, celebrated the day after Easter Sunday, is a public holiday in Mayotte. It is a time for families and friends to come together after the Easter Sunday church services. Traditional activities include picnics, family gatherings, and community events. People often go out to enjoy Mayotte’s natural landscapes, such as beaches and parks. Special meals are prepared and shared, and children enjoy activities like egg hunts. Easter Monday emphasizes rest, family, and community, providing a pleasant conclusion to the Easter celebrations.
Abolition Day
Abolition Day in Mayotte, celebrated on April 27th, commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1848. This day honors the struggles and resilience of those who were enslaved and marks a significant moment in Mayotte’s history. The day is observed with ceremonies, cultural performances, and educational activities that teach about the history of slavery. Cultural expressions like traditional music, dance, and art play a significant role. It’s a day of remembrance and celebration, highlighting the progress towards freedom and equality.
Labour Day
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st in Mayotte, honors workers and their contributions. Rooted in the labor union movement, this day commemorates the fight for workers’ rights and better working conditions. In Mayotte, it is marked by marches, rallies, and discussions about workers’ rights. Many people also take the day off to relax and spend time with family and friends, enjoying picnics and outdoor gatherings. Labour Day emphasizes the ongoing struggles for fair wages, job security, and safe working conditions.
Victory Day
Victory Day, celebrated on May 8th, marks the end of World War II in Europe and the victory of the Allied forces over Nazi Germany. In Mayotte, the day is observed with ceremonies, including wreath-laying at war memorials, military parades, and speeches. It is a time to honor the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians during the war. Educational programs teach students about the history and significance of the day. Families and communities come together, reflecting on the importance of peace and freedom.
Ascension Day
Ascension Day, observed 40 days after Easter, commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven. In Mayotte, Christians attend special church services and reflect on the significance of Jesus’ ascension. The holiday also has a communal aspect, with families and friends coming together to celebrate. Many people enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and gatherings in Mayotte’s natural surroundings. Ascension Day highlights the island’s rich traditions and the importance of community.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most important Islamic holidays in Mayotte. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. The holiday begins with a special prayer and includes the ritual sacrifice of an animal. The meat is shared with the poor, friends, and family. Families prepare special meals and gather to celebrate, reinforcing values of charity and community. The holiday is marked by religious observance, family gatherings, and community spirit.
Whit Monday
Whit Monday, or Pentecost Monday, is a Christian holiday celebrated the day after Pentecost. In Mayotte, it is a public holiday marked by special church services focusing on the themes of Pentecost. Families and friends gather for social activities and outdoor events, enjoying the island’s natural beauty. Whit Monday emphasizes relaxation, family, and community, combining religious observance with cultural celebration.
National Day
National Day, or Bastille Day, is celebrated on July 14th in Mayotte, commemorating the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille. The day features military parades, traditional music, dance, and community events. Families and friends gather for picnics, barbecues, and fireworks. National Day highlights the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity, fostering a sense of unity and pride in Mayotte’s connection to France.
Assumption Day
Assumption Day, celebrated on August 15th, commemorates the Virgin Mary’s ascension into heaven. In Mayotte, Christians attend special church services and participate in processions and prayers. The day is also marked by family gatherings, shared meals, and community events. Assumption Day combines religious observance with cultural celebration, fostering a sense of community and unity.
The Prophet’s Birthday
The Prophet’s Birthday, or Mawlid al-Nabi, celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. In Mayotte, the holiday is marked by special prayers and sermons in mosques, as well as family gatherings and festive meals. Public events and processions often include recitations and discussions about the Prophet’s life and teachings. The holiday emphasizes community, reflection, and acts of charity.
All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day, celebrated on November 1st, honors all the saints and commemorates the faithful who have passed away. In Mayotte, Christians attend special church services and visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves. The day is marked by family gatherings, shared meals, and reflection. All Saints’ Day fosters a sense of community and unity, providing a time for remembrance and support.
Armistice Day
Armistice Day, observed on November 11th, marks the end of World War I. In Mayotte, the day is commemorated with ceremonies, including wreath-laying at war memorials, military parades, and educational programs. It is a time for personal reflection and remembrance, as well as community gatherings. Armistice Day honors the sacrifices made during the war and underscores the importance of peace.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. In Mayotte, Christians attend special church services and celebrate with family gatherings, festive meals, and gift-giving. Homes and streets are decorated, creating a festive atmosphere. Christmas Day is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection, emphasizing the importance of family and community.