Mauritius is not only famous for its beaches and lagoons. It is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. The island officially recognises public holidays from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Chinese and Creole communities, making it a unique multicultural destination.
If you are planning a trip, understanding the public holidays in Mauritius will help you experience authentic local traditions and celebrations.
How Many Public Holidays Are There in Mauritius?
Mauritius observes around 15 public holidays each year. Some have fixed dates, while others vary according to religious calendars.
These holidays reflect the island’s harmony between different cultures and religions.
List of Public Holidays in Mauritius
1. New Year’s Day
Category: National Celebration
Mauritians celebrate the new year with family gatherings, beach picnics, fireworks and festive meals. It is one of the busiest and happiest times of the year.
2. Abolition of Slavery Day
Category: National / Creole Heritage
This day commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1835. Ceremonies are held at Le Morne, a UNESCO World Heritage site that symbolises freedom and resilience.
3. Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)
Category: Chinese Mauritian Community
Celebrated mainly in Chinatown, Port Louis, this festival includes lion dances, red lanterns, traditional food and firecrackers to welcome prosperity.
Best time to visit Mauritius if you love vibrant street celebrations.
4. Thaipusam Cavadee
Category: Tamil Hindu
Devotees fast and carry decorated structures to temples in honour of Lord Muruga. It is one of the most visually powerful religious festivals on the island.
5. Maha Shivaratree
Category: Hindu
Thousands of pilgrims walk to Ganga Talao carrying kanwars. It is one of the largest Hindu pilgrimages outside India.
6. Independence and Republic Day
Category: National
Marks independence from Britain in 1968 and becoming a republic in 1992. Official ceremonies and flag-raising events take place across the island.
7. Good Friday
Category: Christian
Observed with church services and reflection to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
8. Eid al-Fitr
Category: Muslim
Celebrates the end of Ramadan. Families gather for prayers and share festive meals. The Jummah Mosque is a central place of prayer.
9. Ganesh Chaturthi
Devotees worship Lord Ganesha and immerse statues in the sea after prayers.
10. Diwali – Festival of Lights
Homes across Mauritius are decorated with oil lamps symbolising light over darkness. Sweets are shared among neighbours of all religions.
One of the most beautiful times to visit Mauritius.
11. All Saints’ Day
Category: Christian
Families visit cemeteries to honour loved ones.
12. Christmas
Celebrated with midnight mass, family meals and beach gatherings.
Why Mauritius Public Holidays Are Unique
Mauritius is one of the few countries in the world that officially recognises multiple religions as national public holidays. This reflects peaceful coexistence and cultural respect.
For travellers, visiting Mauritius during a festival offers a deeper cultural experience beyond beaches and resorts.
If you are planning a trip, understanding the public holidays in Mauritius will help you experience authentic local traditions and celebrations.
Mauritius observes around 15 public holidays each year. Some have fixed dates, while others vary according to religious calendars.
These holidays reflect the island’s harmony between different cultures and religions.
1. New Year’s Day
Category: National Celebration
Mauritians celebrate the new year with family gatherings, beach picnics, fireworks and festive meals. It is one of the busiest and happiest times of the year.
Category: National / Creole Heritage
This day commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1835. Ceremonies are held at Le Morne, a UNESCO World Heritage site that symbolises freedom and resilience.
Category: Chinese Mauritian Community
Celebrated mainly in Chinatown, Port Louis, this festival includes lion dances, red lanterns, traditional food and firecrackers to welcome prosperity.
Best time to visit Mauritius if you love vibrant street celebrations.
Category: Tamil Hindu
Devotees fast and carry decorated structures to temples in honour of Lord Muruga. It is one of the most visually powerful religious festivals on the island.
Category: Hindu
Thousands of pilgrims walk to Ganga Talao carrying kanwars. It is one of the largest Hindu pilgrimages outside India.
Category: National
Marks independence from Britain in 1968 and becoming a republic in 1992. Official ceremonies and flag-raising events take place across the island.
Category: Christian
Observed with church services and reflection to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Category: Muslim
Celebrates the end of Ramadan. Families gather for prayers and share festive meals. The Jummah Mosque is a central place of prayer.
Devotees worship Lord Ganesha and immerse statues in the sea after prayers.
Homes across Mauritius are decorated with oil lamps symbolising light over darkness. Sweets are shared among neighbours of all religions.
One of the most beautiful times to visit Mauritius.
Families visit cemeteries to honour loved ones.
Celebrated with midnight mass, family meals and beach gatherings.
Mauritius is one of the few countries in the world that officially recognises multiple religions as national public holidays. This reflects peaceful coexistence and cultural respect.
For travellers, visiting Mauritius during a festival offers a deeper cultural experience beyond beaches and resorts.
