Public holidays in Niger

The government and people of Niger observe twelve official public holidays. These include international commemorations, the commemoration of important dates in the history of Niger, and religious holidays. Both Christian and Muslim holidays are observed as official public holidays. While the former colonial power, France, instituted Christian observances, the vast majority of Nigeriens are Muslim.

Because Muslim holiday are dependent on the Islamic calendar, and—like Christian Easter—move from year to year. Some Muslim holidays are also dependent upon astronomical sightings (e.g.: the observance of for Ramadan). National commemorations and secular international holidays are fixed on the Gregorian calendar, the standard civil calendar used in Niger as most of the world.

Nigeriens celebrate a number of other holidays, festivals, and commemorations which are not public holidays. Some are yearly civic commemorations, some religious, ethnic, or regional festivals which may be widely celebrated only by specific groups or in specific areas. Other yearly events, such as cultural festivals, markets, or sporting events may be much anticipated events without being legal holidays.

Below are the twelve official public holidays recognized by the Government of Niger. Businesses, schools, and public services are closed on these days. They are often dates of public festivals, political speeches, and large gatherings.

The following are official public holidays whose date may vary, according to their corresponding calendar. Some Muslim holiday observance is also dependent upon local astronomical observance. For the period 2008–2013, the order they occur:

Nigeriens celebrate a number of holidays and festivals. Many are regional, recognized partially or only locally by government, or are traditions of specific ethnic groups. They include:

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