List of Public Holidays in Kenya

New Year's Day

New Year's Day is a globally celebrated holiday marking the start of a new year. It falls on January 1st and is a time for reflection, resolutions, and gathering with loved ones. Traditions include countdowns, fireworks, and setting personal goals. It represents renewal, hope, and a fresh start. It is a public holiday in many countries, allowing for family time and festive celebrations. New Year's Day sets the tone for the year ahead, bringing people together to embrace new beginnings.

Good Friday 

Good Friday is a solemn and significant day observed by Christians around the world. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday and commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Good Friday holds great religious and spiritual importance, as it represents the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus for the redemption of humanity. It is a day of reflection, repentance, and deep contemplation on the profound love and forgiveness shown by Jesus. Christians often take part in church services, prayer vigils, and Stations of the Cross processions to remember the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. Good Friday serves as a reminder of the profound impact of Jesus' sacrifice and inspires believers to embrace faith, seek reconciliation, and renew their commitment to living a life of love and compassion.

Easter Monday

Easter Monday is a joyful and festive day that follows Easter Sunday, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It holds special significance in the Christian calendar and is observed by Christians worldwide. While Easter Sunday focuses on the resurrection, Easter Monday is a time for celebration and the continuation of the Easter festivities. Many cultures and traditions have their own unique ways of observing this day. In some countries, people gather for family gatherings, picnics, and outdoor activities. Easter egg hunts are a popular tradition where children search for hidden eggs, symbolizing new life and rebirth. Some countries hold parades, carnivals, and sporting events as part of the Easter Monday celebrations. Overall, Easter Monday serves as an extension of the Easter joy, providing an opportunity for people to come together, enjoy time with loved ones, and revel in the hope and renewal that Easter represents.

Eid ul-Fitr

Eid ul-Fitr, often referred to as simply Eid, is a joyous and significant religious holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection. Eid ul-Fitr is a time of immense happiness, gratitude, and communal celebration. On this day, Muslims gather for prayers at mosques, wear their finest clothes, and exchange greetings and well-wishes with friends, family, and neighbors. Special meals and feasts are prepared, and delicious sweets and treats are shared. Giving to charity is an integral part of Eid, as it encourages Muslims to help those in need and express generosity. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of unity, forgiveness, and thanksgiving. Eid ul-Fitr is a time of renewal, strengthening of bonds, and expressing gratitude for the blessings received throughout Ramadan. It serves as a reminder of the values of compassion, self-discipline, and devotion that Muslims strive to uphold in their daily lives.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a significant religious holiday observed by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command. However, before Ibrahim could carry out the sacrifice, God provided a ram as a substitute. Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, following the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. Muslims celebrate this day by attending communal prayers, listening to sermons, and giving thanks for the blessings in their lives. A central aspect of the celebration involves the sacrifice of an animal, such as a sheep, goat, or cow, symbolizing Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbors, and one for the less fortunate. Additionally, Eid al-Adha is a time for families to come together, share festive meals, exchange gifts, and extend acts of charity and kindness to those in need. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal of faith, emphasizing the values of sacrifice, compassion, and community.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th each year, is a cherished and joyous holiday observed by Christians around the world. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity. Christmas is a time of great significance and holds deep religious meaning for believers, symbolizing hope, love, and the gift of salvation. The day is marked by various traditions, including attending church services, exchanging gifts, and sharing festive meals with family and loved ones. Decorations such as Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes create a festive atmosphere. Christmas carols, hymns, and the reading of the biblical account of Jesus' birth are common practices. It is a time of generosity, compassion, and spreading goodwill to others. Christmas Day brings people together, fostering a sense of unity, joy, and gratitude as they celebrate the birth of Jesus and the blessings of the season.

Boxing Day

Boxing Day, observed on December 26th, is a traditional holiday celebrated in various countries, including Kenya. The origin of the name "Boxing Day" is believed to have historical roots in the practice of giving boxes of gifts or alms to the less fortunate. While its exact significance has evolved over time, Boxing Day is generally associated with acts of charity, relaxation, and spending time with family and friends. In Kenya, Boxing Day is often marked by social gatherings, outdoor activities, and sporting events. It is a day for unwinding after the festivities of Christmas and enjoying leisure time. Some people also take the opportunity to engage in acts of kindness and give back to their communities. Overall, Boxing Day serves as a day of reflection, gratitude, and camaraderie, providing a welcome respite during the holiday season.