Public Holidays in Djibouti for 2025

New Year Introduction

New Year, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar and is one of the most widely recognized holidays across the globe. This festive occasion symbolizes fresh starts, hope, and new possibilities. Traditions vary significantly from country to country; for instance, in Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight for good luck, while in Japan, bells are rung 108 times to cleanse the sins of the past year. In many cultures, fireworks light up the night sky, representing a joyful farewell to the old year. Interestingly, the earliest known New Year celebrations date back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon, where the spring equinox was observed. The diversity of customs reflects the unique ways people express their hopes and aspirations for the coming year, making New Year a truly universal celebration.

Isra and Miraj Introduction

Isra and Miraj is a significant event in the Islamic calendar, commemorating the miraculous night journey and ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to the heavens. Observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab, this extraordinary journey is believed to have occurred in the year 621 CE. The Isra refers to the night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem, where the Prophet prayed at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, while the Miraj signifies his ascension through the seven heavens, meeting various prophets along the way, culminating in a direct encounter with Allah. This event is rich in spiritual meaning, symbolizing divine guidance, the importance of prayer, and the deep connection between the earthly and the celestial. Interestingly, while the Isra and Miraj is not universally celebrated with rituals, it is marked by reflection, prayers, and community gatherings, highlighting its significance in reinforcing faith and unity among Muslims worldwide.

Ramadan Start Introduction

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, marks a sacred period for Muslims worldwide, as it is believed to be the month when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. The start of Ramadan, known as Ramadan Start, is determined by the sighting of the new moon, symbolizing a time for spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and community. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs, which fosters empathy for the less fortunate and encourages a sense of community. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar, often enjoyed with family and friends. Interestingly, the duration of the fast varies by geographic location, as longer days are experienced during summer months in northern latitudes. Ramadan is also a time for prayer, with many engaging in nightly Taraweeh prayers at mosques. The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a festive celebration that emphasizes gratitude, charity, and the joy of communal gatherings.

March Equinox Introduction

The March Equinox, also known as the Vernal Equinox, occurs around March 20th or 21st each year, marking the moment when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in nearly equal day and night lengths across the globe. This astronomical event signals the onset of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, symbolizing renewal and rebirth. Various cultures celebrate this transition with festivals, such as Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which has roots in ancient Zoroastrianism, and Ostara, a pagan festival celebrating fertility and new life. Interestingly, the equinox also has significant implications for agriculture, as it traditionally marks the time for planting crops. Additionally, the March Equinox is one of two equinoxes each year, with the other occurring in September, highlighting the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the Sun. This event has fascinated humanity for centuries, inspiring myths, rituals, and scientific study.

Eid al-Fitr Introduction

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant religious holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the conclusion of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, which is observed through dawn-to-dusk abstinence from food and drink. Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan in the Islamic lunar calendar. This joyful occasion is not only a time for communal prayers and feasting but also emphasizes charity, as Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of almsgiving intended to purify those who fast from any indecent act or speech. Interestingly, the holiday varies in duration and customs across cultures, with celebrations including special prayers, festive meals, and communal gatherings. In many countries, it is common for families to wear new or their best clothes, visit friends and relatives, and exchange gifts. The essence of Eid al-Fitr lies in gratitude, compassion, and community, making it a cherished time for reflection and joy among Muslims globally.