Planning your year effectively requires knowing the official national public holidays in Afghanistan. Whether you’re scheduling business meetings, coordinating travel arrangements, or organizing personal events, understanding these nationwide observances helps you make informed decisions. This comprehensive guide covers only confirmed national public holidays in Afghanistan for 2026, ensuring you have accurate information for work-life balance and strategic planning throughout the year.
Official Afghanistan Public Holidays 2026
Afghanistan observes 11 official national public holidays in 2026, including both fixed-date celebrations and Islamic holidays based on the lunar calendar. Consequently, several Islamic observances may shift slightly depending on moon sightings. The table below provides the confirmed dates for all nationwide holidays recognized across the country.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
| February 15 | Sunday | Liberation Day |
| February 18 | Wednesday | First Day of Ramadan |
| March 20 | Friday | Eid al-Fitr (Day 1) |
| March 21 | Saturday | Eid al-Fitr (Day 2) / Nauruz |
| March 22 | Sunday | Eid al-Fitr (Day 3) |
| April 28 | Tuesday | Afghan Victory Day |
| May 1 | Friday | Labor Day |
| May 26 | Tuesday | Day of Arafat |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Eid al-Adha (Day 1) |
| May 28 | Thursday | Eid al-Adha (Day 2) |
| June 26 | Friday | Ashura |
| August 19 | Wednesday | Independence Day (Jeshen) |
| August 26 | Wednesday | The Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid) |
| August 31 | Monday | Anniversary of Foreign Troops Withdrawal |
| September 9 | Wednesday | Martyrs and Ahmad Shah Masoud Day |
Understanding Afghanistan’s Holiday Calendar System
Afghanistan officially uses the Hejrah-e Shamsi calendar, which is similar to the Persian calendar used in Iran. This solar calendar differs from the Gregorian calendar used internationally; however, for ease of planning, dates above are provided in Gregorian format. Most Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, meaning their exact dates are subject to confirmation based on moon sightings by religious authorities.
Under the 2005 Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, all public holidays grant employees a non-working day. Moreover, the government has the authority to establish commemorative dates or one-time public holidays when necessary. This flexible system allows for special observances while maintaining the core calendar of national celebrations.
Key Planning Tips for 2026
Extended Weekends and Travel Opportunities
Several holidays in 2026 create favorable conditions for extended breaks. The Eid al-Fitr celebration spans three consecutive days from March 20-22, falling on Friday through Sunday, which naturally creates a long weekend. Similarly, Eid al-Adha occurs on Wednesday-Thursday (May 27-28), offering opportunities for mid-week travel or personal activities.
On the other hand, Liberation Day falls on Sunday, February 15, which may not provide additional time off for those who already observe weekends. Meanwhile, Labor Day on Friday, May 1, could extend into a three-day weekend depending on your work schedule. For those managing international projects, checking current local times around the world helps coordinate meetings across different time zones during these holiday periods.
Business and Travel Considerations
Government offices, banks, and many businesses close during national public holidays, so advance planning is essential. Foreign visitors should note that services may be limited during major Islamic celebrations, particularly during the three-day Eid festivals. Consequently, booking accommodations and transportation well in advance is advisable for these peak periods.
If you’re coordinating deadlines or project timelines, using a countdown timer can help track days remaining before major holidays. This practical tool ensures you don’t miss critical milestones before offices close for celebrations.
Major National Celebrations Explained
Liberation Day (February 15)
Liberation Day commemorates the Soviet military withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989, marking a significant milestone in the country’s modern history. This national observance reflects the resilience and independence of the Afghan people.
Eid al-Fitr (March 20-22)
Following the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is one of the most important Islamic celebrations. Families gather for prayers, festive meals, and charitable giving. The three-day celebration emphasizes community, gratitude, and spiritual renewal.
Eid al-Adha (May 27-28)
Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha honors Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to divine command. This major Islamic holiday involves prayers, family gatherings, and the distribution of meat to those in need.
Independence Day (August 19)
Known locally as Jeshen, Independence Day celebrates Afghanistan’s independence from British influence in 1919. This patriotic holiday features ceremonies, cultural events, and national pride demonstrations across the country.
Religious Observances Based on Lunar Calendar
Several Afghan holidays depend on the Islamic lunar calendar, which means dates can vary slightly based on official moon sightings. These include the First Day of Ramadan, both Eid celebrations, Day of Arafat, Ashura, and the Prophet’s Birthday. Although the dates listed above represent the best available projections, authorities may announce slight adjustments closer to each observance.
For individuals coordinating international schedules or managing projects with firm deadlines, this lunar calendar dependency requires flexibility. Nevertheless, most variations are limited to one or two days at most. Checking official government announcements ensures you have the most current information.
Planning Your Year Around Public Holidays
Effective planning means incorporating these national holidays into your annual calendar early. Mark all 15 public holidays in your scheduling system, and note which ones fall adjacent to weekends. This proactive approach helps you maximize time off while avoiding scheduling conflicts during peak holiday periods.
For more comprehensive time management resources and scheduling tools, explore our practical guides section, which offers strategies for productivity, time tracking, and global coordination. Whether you’re managing a business, planning family activities, or coordinating international partnerships, understanding Afghanistan’s public holiday calendar is fundamental to successful time management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which holidays are recognized nationwide in Afghanistan?
Afghanistan recognizes 15 national public holidays in 2026. These include Liberation Day, the three-day Eid al-Fitr celebration, two days of Eid al-Adha, Afghan Victory Day, Labor Day, Day of Arafat, Ashura, Independence Day, the Prophet’s Birthday, Anniversary of Foreign Troops Withdrawal, and Martyrs Day. All of these are official nationwide observances where government offices and most businesses close.
Which holidays create long weekends in 2026?
The Eid al-Fitr celebration creates the most significant extended break, spanning Friday through Sunday (March 20-22). Labor Day falls on Friday, May 1, which can extend into a weekend. Additionally, both Eid al-Adha days (May 27-28) fall on Wednesday-Thursday, potentially creating a four-day weekend when combined with Friday-Saturday weekends.
Are any holidays subject to change?
Yes, Islamic holidays based on the lunar calendar may shift by one or two days depending on official moon sightings. These include the First Day of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Day of Arafat, Ashura, and the Prophet’s Birthday. Fixed-date holidays like Independence Day and Liberation Day remain consistent. Always check official government announcements closer to each holiday for final confirmation.
Do all businesses close on public holidays?
Government offices, banks, and most businesses close on national public holidays. However, essential services such as hospitals, security services, and some transportation providers typically remain operational. Tourist areas and international hotels may maintain limited services during holidays, though staffing levels are usually reduced.
How does Afghanistan’s calendar system affect holiday dates?
Afghanistan uses the Hejrah-e Shamsi solar calendar officially, while Islamic religious holidays follow the lunar calendar. This dual system means secular holidays have fixed dates, while religious observances shift annually. The lunar calendar is approximately 11 days shorter than the solar calendar, causing Islamic holidays to occur earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.