There are 11 public holidays in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026, two of which fall on weekends.
New Year's Day
The New Year Holiday, celebrated on January 1, 2026, marks the first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar. It is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world.
Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus and His death at Calvary. It is observed on the Friday immediately preceding Easter Sunday. In 2026, Good Friday falls on April 3.
Easter Monday
Easter Monday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. In 2026, the holiday will be observed on April 6.
Labour Day
Labour Day, observed on May 4, 2026, celebrates the achievements of workers. The holiday originated from the eight-hour day movement, advocating for eight hours of work, eight hours of recreation, and eight hours of rest.
Whit Monday
Whit Monday, also known as Pentecost Monday, is a religious festival celebrated by Christians. It occurs the day after Pentecost, which is the 50th day after Easter Sunday. In 2026, Whit Monday falls on May 25.
Carnival
Carnival celebrates the abolition of slavery in many Caribbean countries. As a result, several Caribbean nations observe Carnival in July or early August to commemorate the anniversary of slavery being abolished on August 1, 1834. In 2026, the celebration lasts two days, August 3 and August 4.
Independence Day
The holiday commemorates Antigua and Barbuda's independence from the United Kingdom in 1981. In 2026, the holiday falls on November 1 and will be observed on November 2.
V.C. Bird Day
The holiday, observed on December 9, 2026, celebrates the birthday of Vere Cornwall Bird, the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, observed on December 25, 2026, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It is a holiday of sharing, during which people exchange gifts and cards with family and friends.
Boxing Day
Boxing Day, also known as St. Stephen's Day, is widely recognized as a shopping holiday in some countries. In 2026, it falls on December 26.
The following is the list of public holidays in Antigua and Barbuda 2026.
Holiday | Date | Weekday | Note |
---|---|---|---|
New Year's Day | Jan 01, 2026 | Thursday | Public Holiday |
Good Friday | Apr 03, 2026 | Friday | Public Holiday |
Easter Monday | Apr 06, 2026 | Monday | Public Holiday |
Labour Day | May 04, 2026 | Monday | Public Holiday |
Whit Monday | May 25, 2026 | Monday | Public Holiday |
Carnival Monday | Aug 03, 2026 | Monday | Public Holiday |
Carnival Tuesday | Aug 04, 2026 | Tuesday | Public Holiday |
Independence Day | Nov 01, 2026 | Sunday | Public Holiday |
Independence Day Holiday | Nov 02, 2026 | Monday | Observed |
V.C. Bird Day | Dec 09, 2026 | Wednesday | Public Holiday |
Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2026 | Friday | Public Holiday |
Boxing Day | Dec 26, 2026 | Saturday | Public Holiday |
Please also check the working days in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026.