Sri Lanka is a land rich in cultural diversity and traditions, which are beautifully reflected in its calendar of public holidays. For 2025, the island nation once again brings a blend of religious observances, national celebrations, and cultural festivities. Planning your year ahead? Here’s an insightful guide to Sri Lanka’s public holidays for 2025.

Key Highlights of Sri Lanka’s 2025 Public Holidays

January

• Monday, January 13: Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day — Marks the first Poya day of the year, celebrating Gautama Buddha’s first visit to Sri Lanka.
• Tuesday, January 14: Tamil Thai Pongal Day — A harvest festival celebrated by Tamil Hindus, symbolizing gratitude to the Sun God.

February

• Tuesday, February 4: Independence Day — Celebrates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948 with parades and national pride.
• Wednesday, February 12: Navam Full Moon Poya Day — Commemorates the appointment of Buddha’s two chief disciples.
• Wednesday, February 26: Mahasivarathri Day — A sacred day for Hindus devoted to Lord Shiva.

March

• Thursday, March 13: Medin Full Moon Poya Day — Marks Buddha’s return to his hometown.
• Monday, March 31: Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day) — Celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of Ramadan.

April

• Saturday, April 12: Bak Full Moon Poya Day — A Buddhist holiday that signifies the Buddha’s second visit to Sri Lanka.
• Sunday, April 13: Day Prior to Sinhala & Tamil New Year — Marks the preparations for the New Year celebrations with cleaning, decorating, and cooking traditional food.
• Monday, April 14: Sinhala & Tamil New Year — The highlight of the year, this day brings nationwide festivities, traditional games, and family gatherings.
• Tuesday, April 15: Special Bank Holiday — Observed for banking institutions.
• Friday, April 18: Good Friday — A solemn day for Christians.

May

• Thursday, May 1: May Day — Also known as International Workers’ Day.
• Monday, May 12: Vesak Full Moon Poya Day — The most sacred Buddhist holiday celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.
• Tuesday, May 13: Day Following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day — Observed as a continuation of Vesak celebrations.

June to September

• Saturday, June 7: Eid al-Adha (Hadji Festival Day) — Another key Muslim festival.
• Tuesday, June 10: Poson Full Moon Poya Day — Celebrates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

July

• Thursday, July 10: Esala Full Moon Poya Day — Signifies Buddha’s first sermon.

August

• Friday, August 8: Nikini Full Moon Poya Day — Observes important Buddhist rituals.

September

• Friday, September 5: Milad-Un-Nabi — Honoring the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
• Sunday, September 7: Binara Full Moon Poya Day — Commemorates the establishment of the Buddhist Bhikkhuni Order.

October to December

• Monday, October 6: Vap Full Moon Poya Day — Marks the end of the Buddhist rainy season retreat.
• Monday, October 20: Deepavali Festival Day — The Hindu festival of lights.

November

• Wednesday, November 5: Ill Full Moon Poya Day — Signifies the Buddha’s teachings at Abhidhamma.

December

• Thursday, December 4: Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day — Marks Sanghamitta’s arrival in Sri Lanka with the sacred Bodhi tree.
• Thursday, December 25: Christmas Day — A joyous celebration for Christians worldwide.

Why Sri Lanka’s Public Holidays Are Special

What makes Sri Lanka unique is the way its holidays bring people from different communities together. Each Poya day reflects Buddhist values, while Hindu, Muslim, and Christian holidays highlight the island’s multi-religious heritage.

For travelers, these holidays offer a chance to witness vibrant celebrations and unique cultural practices. For locals, they provide opportunities to relax, reconnect with loved ones, and partake in meaningful traditions.

Plan Your Year Around These Holidays

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding Sri Lanka’s public holidays can help you make the most of 2025. From religious observances to cultural festivities, there’s something special about every holiday on this calendar.

As always, some dates might vary based on lunar cycles or official announcements, so double-check closer to the time. Make 2025 a year of celebration and connection in the Pearl of the Indian Ocean!