Public Holidays in Reunion In 2025 offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich cultural tapestry and historical significance. As an overseas department of France, Reunion observes a blend of French national holidays and local celebrations, each telling a unique story of the island’s heritage. From the joyous New Year’s Day to the reflective Abolition Day, these holidays paint a vivid picture of Reunion’s diverse influences.
Residents and guests can enjoy the island’s rich customs, religious observances, and historical reminders all year long. This guide explores the significance of each public holiday, providing insight into the cultural fabric that makes Reunion truly special.
Public Holidays in Reunion in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Reunion in 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Victory Day | May 08, 2025 | Thursday |
| Ascension Day | May 29, 2025 | Thursday |
| Whit Monday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| French National Day | Jul 14, 2025 | Monday |
| Assumption of Mary | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| All Saints’ Day | Nov 01, 2025 | Saturday |
| Armistice Day | Nov 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Abolition Day | Dec 20, 2025 | Saturday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
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New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1, marks the beginning of the new year in Reunion, as in many parts of the world. It’s a time for fresh starts, resolutions, and hope for the coming year. Families and friends often gather to celebrate with special meals, fireworks, and parties.
Many Reunionnais observe traditional customs like exchanging wishes and gifts. The holiday also reflects the island’s diverse cultural heritage, blending French, African, Indian, and Chinese traditions. It’s a public holiday, allowing people to relax and enjoy time with loved ones as they welcome the new year with optimism and joy.
Easter Monday
Easter Monday, the day following Easter Sunday, is a Christian festival observed in Reunion. It marks the end of the Easter weekend and commemorates Jesus Christ’s resurrection. While Easter Sunday is the main celebration, Easter Monday is a time for relaxation and family gatherings.
Many Reunionnais enjoy picnics, beach outings, or visits to relatives. Traditional Easter foods like chocolate eggs and hot cross buns are popular. Some communities organize Easter egg hunts for children. The holiday also signifies the arrival of spring, symbolizing new beginnings and renewal. As a public holiday, it provides an opportunity for people to extend their Easter celebrations and spend quality time with family and friends.
Labour Day
Labour Day, observed on May 1 in Reunion, is a celebration of workers’ rights and the labour movement. It acknowledges the contributions and accomplishments of workers from all industries. The day is marked by parades, rallies, and demonstrations organized by trade unions and workers’ organizations.
Many Réunionnais use this day to advocate for better working conditions, fair wages, and social justice. It’s also a day off for most workers, allowing them to rest and spend time with family. Some people engage in outdoor activities or picnics. The holiday reminds us of the fundamental significance of equitable labor practices in society and the ongoing fight for workers’ rights.
Victory Day
Victory Day, celebrated on May 8 in Reunion, commemorates the end of World War II in Europe and the victory of the Allied forces over Nazi Germany. It’s a day of remembrance and gratitude for those who fought for freedom and democracy. Official ceremonies are held, including wreath-laying at war memorials and parades featuring veterans and current military personnel. The French and Réunionnais flags are prominently displayed.
Schools often organize educational activities to teach younger generations about this important historical event. The holiday reminds us of the horrors of war and the value of peace, unity, and international cooperation. It’s a time for reflection on Reunion’s role in world history.
Ascension Day
Ascension Day, a Christian holiday, is observed 40 days following Easter and commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into paradise. In Reunion, it’s a public holiday with both religious and secular observances. Churches hold special services, and some Christians attend mass or prayer meetings. Many Réunionnais, regardless of religious affiliation, use this day for family gatherings, picnics, or outdoor activities, taking advantage of the spring weather.
Some local traditions blend Christian beliefs with the island’s diverse cultural heritage. As a midweek holiday, it often creates a long weekend, allowing people to take short trips or enjoy extended leisure time. The day encourages reflection on spiritual matters and the importance of faith in daily life.
Whit Monday
Celebrated by Christians commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, Whit Monday, sometimes known as Pentecost Monday, falls 50 days following Easter. In Reunion, it’s a public holiday with both religious and secular significance. Churches may hold special services or events. Many Réunionnais, regardless of religious background, use this day for family gatherings, picnics, or outdoor activities.
It often marks the beginning of the warmer season, and people take advantage of the pleasant weather. Some local customs blend Christian traditions with the island’s diverse cultural influences. As a public holiday, it provides an opportunity for relaxation and community bonding, emphasizing the importance of spirituality and togetherness in Réunionnais culture.
French National Day
French National Day, celebrated on July 14, commemorates the storming of the Bastille in 1789, a pivotal event in the French Revolution. In Reunion, an overseas department of France, this day is marked with great enthusiasm. Official ceremonies, parades, and fireworks displays are organized across the island. The French and Réunionnais flags are prominently displayed. Many people attend public gatherings, concerts, or dance events.
Traditional French and Creole foods are enjoyed in festive settings. The holiday celebrates not only French history but also the Reunion’s connection to France and its unique blend of cultures. It’s a day of national pride, unity, and reflection on the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Assumption of Mary
The Assumption of Mary, celebrated on August 15, is a significant Catholic holiday commemorating the Virgin Mary’s bodily taking up into Heaven at the end of her earthly life. In Reunion, where Catholicism has a strong presence, this day is marked with religious observances and cultural traditions. Churches hold special masses and processions. Many families gather for festive meals, often featuring traditional Réunionnais dishes. Some communities organize local fairs or cultural events.
Even for non-Catholics, it’s a day of rest and family time. The holiday reflects the island’s rich religious heritage and the importance of faith in Réunionnais culture. It’s also a time to appreciate the role of women in society and family life.
All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day, observed on November 1, is a Christian holiday honoring all saints, known and unknown. In Reunion, it’s a day of remembrance and reflection. Particularly chrysanthemums; many people visit cemeteries to clean and ornament the graves of their departed loved ones with flowers. Families often gather to share memories of departed relatives. Churches hold special masses and services.
The holiday blends Christian traditions with local customs, reflecting Reunion’s diverse cultural heritage. It’s a time for contemplation about life, death, and the legacy we leave behind. The day also marks the beginning of a period of remembrance that continues through All Souls’ Day on November 2, though this is not a public holiday.
Armistice Day
Armistice Day, commemorated on November 11, marks the signing of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. In Reunion, as in France, it’s a day of remembrance for all who have died in wars. Official ceremonies are held at war memorials, with wreath-laying and moments of silence. Veterans and current military personnel participate in parades. The French and Réunionnais flags are prominently displayed.
Schools often organize educational activities about the war and its impact. The holiday serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for peace and the importance of international cooperation. It’s a time for reflection on Reunion’s role in global conflicts and the value of peace in today’s world.
Abolition Day
Abolition Day, celebrated on December 20 in Reunion, commemorates the abolition of slavery on the island in 1848. It’s a significant day that honors the struggle for freedom and equality. Official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events are organized to remember this important historical moment.
Many Réunionnais participate in activities that celebrate the island’s diverse cultural heritage, which was profoundly shaped by the history of slavery and emancipation. Traditional music, dance, and food play a big role in the celebrations. The day serves as a reminder of the island’s complex past and the ongoing fight against all forms of oppression. It’s a time for reflection on human rights and social justice.
Christmas Day
Celebrated on December 25, Christmas Day honors Christianity’s birth of Jesus Christ. A reunion is a happy occasion marked by family get-togethers and celebratory customs. Many attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve or church services on Christmas Day. Families come together for special meals, often featuring a mix of traditional French and Creole dishes.
Gift-giving, especially for children, is common. Homes and public spaces are decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes. The tropical climate gives Reunionnais Christmas a unique flavor, with beach outings or picnics sometimes part of the celebrations. The holiday also reflects the island’s cultural diversity, with various communities adding their traditions to the festivities.