The public holidays in Saint Barthélemy in 2025 offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich cultural tapestry. This French overseas collectivity in the Caribbean blends French traditions with local customs, resulting in a unique holiday calendar. From the jubilant celebrations of New Year’s Day to the solemn observances of Armistice Day, these holidays reflect the island’s history, religious heritage, and connection to France.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding these holidays provides insight into Saint Barthélemy’s identity. This guide explores the significance of each public holiday, helping you appreciate the cultural rhythm of this beautiful island throughout the year 2025.
Public Holidays in Saint Barthelemy in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Saint Barthelemy 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 |
| National Day | Jul 14, 2025 | Monday |
| Assumption Day | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| Abolition Day | Oct 09, 2025 | Thursday |
| All Saints’ Day | Nov 01, 2025 | Saturday |
| Armistice Day | Nov 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| Know More: Public Holidays in Rwanda in 2025 |
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day marks the start of the calendar year in Saint Barthélemy, as in many parts of the world. It’s a time for fresh beginnings, setting resolutions, and spending time with family and friends. People often celebrate with parties, fireworks, and special meals the night before.
On New Year’s Day itself, many enjoy a relaxed day off work, perhaps having a nice lunch or dinner with loved ones. It’s also common to exchange wishes for a happy and prosperous new year. The holiday represents hope for the future and a chance to reflect on the past year.
Easter Monday
Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday and is part of the Christian Holy Week celebrations. On Easter Sunday, people remember that Jesus Christ rose from the dead. On Easter Monday, people in Saint Barthélemy relax and spend time with their families. Many people enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, or beach outings if the weather permits.
Traditional Easter foods might be enjoyed, and some may continue religious observances. Easter egg hunts might be organized for children. Today is a chance to keep the Easter spirit alive and spend time with loved ones before getting back to normal.
Labour Day
Labour Day, or May Day, honors workers’ rights and the labor movement. In Saint Barthélemy, as in many countries, it’s a day off for most workers. The holiday originated from the 19th-century labor movement, which fought for better working conditions and an 8-hour workday.
While not typically marked by large parades in Saint Barthélemy, it’s a day for relaxation and appreciation of workers’ contributions to society. Some may use the day for family gatherings or outings. It’s an excellent way to remember how crucial fair labor standards and workers’ rights are.
Victory Day
Victory Day commemorates the end of World War II in Europe. It marks the formal acceptance of Nazi Germany’s surrender by the Allies on May 8, 1945. In Saint Barthélemy, as part of the French overseas territories, this day is observed to remember those who fought and died in the war.
It’s a time for reflection on the costs of war and the value of peace. Some may attend memorial services or watch official ceremonies on television. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation and the ongoing pursuit of peace.
Ascension Day
Ascension Day is a Christian holiday celebrated 40 days after Easter. In line with what the New Testament says, it marks the event of Jesus Christ ascending into heaven. In Saint Barthélemy, it’s a public holiday, typically falling on a Thursday. Many attend church services on this day.
It’s also seen as the beginning of the summer season in some places. Some people may take an extended weekend by taking Friday off as well. The day is often spent with family, perhaps enjoying outdoor activities or special meals together. It’s a time for spiritual reflection and celebration for many Christians.
Whit Monday
It’s 50 days after Easter on Whit Monday, which is also called Pentecost Monday. It follows Pentecost Sunday, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. In Saint Barthélemy, it’s a public holiday and often marks the beginning of summer.
Many people enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, or visits to the beach. Some may attend religious services. It’s a day for relaxation and spending time with family and friends. The holiday has spiritual significance for Christians and serves as a welcome day off for many residents.
National Day
France’s Bastille Day, which honors the taking of the Bastille in 1789 and was a significant event in the French Revolution, falls on the same day as Saint Barthélemy’s National Day. Saint Barthélemy marks this day in a number of different ways because it is an overseas collectivity of France.
These include parades, fireworks, and public gatherings. It’s a day to celebrate French and local culture with music, dance, and traditional foods. The holiday symbolizes the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity. It’s a time for national pride and reflection on the island’s relationship with France.
Assumption Day
Assumption Day is a Christian holiday that honors the idea that the Virgin Mary was physically taken to heaven at the end of her life on earth. In Saint Barthélemy, it’s a public holiday and often marks the peak of the summer season.
Many attend church services, mainly Catholic masses. It’s also a popular day for family gatherings, picnics, and beach outings. Some towns may hold special processions or festivities. The day combines religious observance with summer leisure, providing a break during the warmest part of the year.
Abolition Day
In Saint Barthélemy, Abolition Day is a celebration of the end of slavery in the French West Indies. It’s a day to remember the hardships endured by enslaved people and to celebrate their emancipation. The holiday serves as a reminder of the island’s complex history and the importance of human rights and equality.
Various events may be held to mark the occasion, including cultural performances, educational programs, and memorial services. It’s a time for reflection on the past and commitment to a future of equality and justice for all.
All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day is a Christian holiday honoring all saints, known and unknown. In Saint Barthélemy, it’s a time when people often visit cemeteries to pay respects to deceased family members. They might clean graves and leave flowers or candles.
Some attend church services. The day is also known as “Toussaint” in French. It’s a time for remembering loved ones who have passed away and reflecting on mortality and the afterlife. The holiday often has a solemn but also celebratory tone, honoring the lives of those who have died.
Armistice Day
A truce was made between the Allies and Germany on Armistice Day in 1918, ending World War I. In Saint Barthélemy, as in France, it’s a day to honor veterans and remember those who died in war. There might be memorial services or moments of silence observed. Some may wear poppies as a symbol of remembrance.
While not as widely celebrated as some other holidays, it remains an essential day for reflection on the costs of war and the value of peace. It’s a time to consider the sacrifices made by previous generations.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day in Saint Barthélemy combines Christian traditions with local customs. Christmas is a time for family get-togethers, giving gifts, and special meals. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Many attend midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Traditional foods might include ham, turkey, and local specialties.
The tropical climate means that Christmas in Saint Barthélemy often involves beach activities rather than snow. Decorations might include tropical plants alongside more familiar Christmas trees. It’s a joyous time of year, blending religious observance with festive celebrations and family togetherness.