Understanding the official public holidays in Togo for 2026 is essential for effective planning, whether you’re scheduling business meetings, arranging travel itineraries, or coordinating international communications. Togo observes 13 nationwide public holidays throughout the year, combining fixed-date celebrations with religious observances that follow lunar calendars. However, this comprehensive guide focuses exclusively on confirmed national holidays that apply across the entire country, helping you navigate the year with confidence.
Official Public Holidays in Togo 2026
The Togolese Republic celebrates its national holidays according to Article 84, Title 5, of the 2002 Constitution and the 2006 Labour Code. Consequently, these holidays are recognized as non-working days for employees nationwide, though specific payment arrangements may vary by employer. Below is the complete list of public holidays you can expect in 2026.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
| January 13 | Tuesday | Liberation Day |
| March 20 | Friday | Eid al-Fitr (Korité) |
| April 6 | Monday | Easter Monday |
| April 27 | Monday | Independence Day |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day |
| May 14 | Thursday | Ascension Day |
| May 25 | Monday | Whit Monday |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) |
| June 21 | Sunday | Day of the Martyrs |
| August 15 | Saturday | Assumption of Mary |
| November 1 | Sunday | All Saints’ Day |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day |
Understanding Togo’s Holiday Significance
New Year’s Day (January 1)
The year begins with New Year’s Day, observed on Thursday, January 1, 2026. This universal celebration marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year and provides families across Togo with an opportunity to gather and reflect on the year ahead. Meanwhile, businesses typically close for the day, making it an ideal time for personal planning and resolutions.
Liberation Day (January 13)
Liberation Day commemorates the coup d’état of January 13, 1967, which brought significant political changes to Togo. On the other hand, this national holiday holds deep historical significance for Togolese citizens and is observed with patriotic ceremonies throughout the country.
Eid al-Fitr – Korité (March 20)
Eid al-Fitr, locally known as Korité, marks the end of Ramadan and falls on Friday, March 20, 2026. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, and the exact date may vary by one or two days depending on moon sighting. This joyous celebration brings together Muslim communities across Togo for prayers, feasting, and charitable activities.
Easter Monday (April 6)
Following the Christian tradition, Easter Monday is observed on April 6, 2026. This holiday extends the Easter weekend, allowing families additional time for religious observances and celebrations. Moreover, it creates a natural long weekend when it falls close to other holidays.
Independence Day (April 27)
Togo’s Independence Day on Monday, April 27, celebrates the nation’s independence from France in 1960. Consequently, this patriotic holiday features parades, cultural performances, and official ceremonies in the capital city of Lomé and throughout the country. It’s one of the most significant national celebrations, fostering unity and national pride.
Labour Day (May 1)
International Workers’ Day, celebrated on Friday, May 1, honors the contributions of workers across all sectors. Meanwhile, labor unions and worker organizations often organize events and demonstrations to advocate for workers’ rights and improved working conditions.
Ascension Day (May 14)
Ascension Day, falling on Thursday, May 14, 2026, commemorates the Christian belief in Jesus Christ’s ascension to heaven. This religious holiday is observed forty days after Easter Sunday. However, combined with the nearby Whit Monday, it can create opportunities for extended breaks.
Whit Monday (May 25)
Whit Monday, also known as Pentecost Monday, occurs on May 25, 2026. This Christian holiday celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Furthermore, it provides another mid-spring break for workers and families across Togo.
Tabaski – Eid al-Adha (May 27)
Tabaski, the Feast of Sacrifice, is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Nevertheless, like other Islamic holidays, the actual date depends on lunar observations and may shift slightly. This important Islamic celebration involves special prayers, animal sacrifice, and sharing meals with family and the less fortunate.
Day of the Martyrs (June 21)
The Day of the Martyrs on Sunday, June 21, honors those who lost their lives in Togo’s political struggles. On the other hand, when this holiday falls on a weekend, it may not result in an additional day off work, though official ceremonies still take place.
Assumption of Mary (August 15)
The Assumption of Mary, celebrated on Saturday, August 15, 2026, is an important Catholic holiday commemorating the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken up to heaven. Meanwhile, religious services and processions mark this sacred day across Catholic communities in Togo.
All Saints’ Day (November 1)
All Saints’ Day on Sunday, November 1, is a Christian holiday honoring all saints and martyrs. However, as it falls on a weekend in 2026, it won’t create a midweek break, though religious observances continue as usual.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas Day, falling on Friday, December 25, 2026, celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Consequently, this creates a natural long weekend leading into the new year, making it an excellent time for family gatherings and holiday travel planning.
Planning Tips for 2026 Holidays
Strategic planning around Togo’s public holidays can help you maximize productivity and personal time throughout 2026. First and foremost, several holidays in 2026 fall on weekends, including Day of the Martyrs (Sunday, June 21), Assumption of Mary (Saturday, August 15), and All Saints’ Day (Sunday, November 1). Nevertheless, when planning business operations or travel, you should verify whether substitute days off are granted when holidays fall on weekends, as this varies by employer and sector.
Moreover, several holidays create natural long weekends in 2026. The Christmas holiday on Friday, December 25, extends into the weekend, providing a perfect opportunity for year-end travel or family gatherings. Additionally, May presents a particularly busy period with five public holidays clustered between May 1 and May 27, including Labour Day, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, and Tabaski. Consequently, this makes May an ideal month to schedule vacations or plan around reduced business activity.
Furthermore, the Islamic holidays Korité (March 20) and Tabaski (May 27) follow the lunar calendar, meaning the exact dates may shift by one or two days depending on moon sighting. Therefore, it’s advisable to confirm these dates closer to the time, especially when making critical travel arrangements. You can use tools like the World Time Comparison Tool to coordinate international meetings around these holidays, ensuring you avoid scheduling conflicts with colleagues across different time zones.
On the other hand, for project management and deadline planning, be mindful that April features two significant holidays: Easter Monday (April 6) and Independence Day (April 27). This can impact business operations and government services throughout the month. Similarly, setting reminders using countdown timers for upcoming holidays can help you prepare adequately for business closures and plan alternative arrangements when necessary.
Work and Travel Considerations
Understanding how public holidays affect work schedules and travel plans is crucial for anyone conducting business in or visiting Togo. During national holidays, government offices, banks, and most businesses close, though tourist facilities and essential services typically remain operational. However, it’s always wise to confirm operating hours in advance, particularly for banking services and official government transactions.
Meanwhile, transportation services may operate on modified schedules during holidays, especially for intercity buses and domestic flights. Consequently, booking travel arrangements well in advance is recommended, particularly during major holidays like Independence Day and Christmas when demand increases significantly. Additionally, accommodation rates may rise during peak holiday periods, so early reservation can help secure better prices.
For international visitors, Togo’s holidays provide excellent opportunities to experience local culture and traditions firsthand. Nevertheless, be prepared for increased crowds at popular tourist destinations and potential service limitations at restaurants and attractions. Furthermore, attending Independence Day celebrations in Lomé offers a unique cultural experience with parades, traditional dances, and vibrant displays of national pride.
Religious Holiday Variations
It’s important to understand that Islamic holidays in Togo follow the Islamic lunar calendar, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, Islamic holidays like Korité and Tabaski occur roughly 11 days earlier each year. The dates provided in this guide are estimates based on astronomical calculations; however, official confirmation depends on the sighting of the new moon by religious authorities.
On the other hand, Christian holidays like Easter Monday, Ascension Day, and Whit Monday are calculated based on the ecclesiastical approximation of the March equinox and follow the Western Christian calendar. Consequently, these dates are more predictable and can be calculated years in advance. Meanwhile, for the most current information on all religious holidays, consulting official government sources or religious institutions is advisable.
Maximizing Your Planning Efficiency
Effective planning requires access to reliable time management tools and resources. The comprehensive guides available on time management and scheduling can help you optimize your calendar around Togo’s public holidays. Moreover, understanding the cultural significance of each holiday enables better communication and relationship building with Togolese colleagues and business partners.
Furthermore, keeping a printed or digital copy of this holiday calendar readily accessible throughout 2026 ensures you’re never caught off guard by unexpected closures. Additionally, sharing this information with your team members, especially those involved in international operations, promotes better coordination and reduces the risk of scheduling conflicts. Therefore, integrating these holidays into your project management software or digital calendar at the start of the year is a proactive approach to efficient planning.
Conclusion
Togo’s 13 public holidays in 2026 reflect the nation’s rich cultural heritage, religious diversity, and historical journey. From the patriotic significance of Independence Day and Liberation Day to the spiritual importance of Christian and Islamic observances, each holiday offers unique insights into Togolese society. Moreover, strategic planning around these holidays can enhance both business productivity and personal enjoyment throughout the year.
Whether you’re a business professional coordinating international projects, a traveler planning an exciting visit to Togo, or a resident organizing your annual schedule, this comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need. Nevertheless, always verify specific dates with official sources, particularly for Islamic holidays that may vary based on lunar observations. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can navigate 2026 with confidence, respecting local customs while maximizing opportunities for both work and leisure.
For more detailed information about time zones, scheduling tools, and holiday planning resources, visit our main public holidays page where you’ll find additional guides and tools to help you stay organized throughout the year. Remember to bookmark this page for quick reference as you plan your 2026 activities around Togo’s national holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which holidays are recognized nationwide in Togo?
Togo recognizes 13 nationwide public holidays in 2026, including New Year’s Day (January 1), Liberation Day (January 13), Korité or Eid al-Fitr (March 20), Easter Monday (April 6), Independence Day (April 27), Labour Day (May 1), Ascension Day (May 14), Whit Monday (May 25), Tabaski or Eid al-Adha (May 27), Day of the Martyrs (June 21), Assumption of Mary (August 15), All Saints’ Day (November 1), and Christmas Day (December 25). These holidays are observed across the entire country according to the 2002 Constitution and 2006 Labour Code.
Which holidays create long weekends in 2026?
Several holidays in 2026 offer excellent long weekend opportunities. Christmas Day falls on Friday, December 25, creating a natural three-day weekend into the new year. Labour Day on Friday, May 1, also provides an extended weekend. Additionally, April 27 (Independence Day) falls on Monday, giving workers a long weekend if they take Friday off. However, some holidays like Day of the Martyrs (Sunday, June 21) and All Saints’ Day (Sunday, November 1) fall on weekends and won’t create extended breaks unless employers provide substitute days off.
Are Islamic holiday dates subject to change in Togo?
Yes, Islamic holidays like Korité (Eid al-Fitr) and Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and depend on the sighting of the new moon. Therefore, the dates provided (March 20 for Korité and May 27 for Tabaski in 2026) are estimates and may shift by one or two days. Official confirmation typically comes from religious authorities closer to the actual date. It’s advisable to verify these dates with local sources or government announcements, especially when planning important business meetings or travel arrangements.
Do all employees get paid holidays in Togo?
According to the 2006 Labour Code, employers in Togo are required to provide days off for all national holidays. While it’s generally believed these are paid holidays for all employees, some sources indicate that payment arrangements may vary. Government employees typically receive paid holidays, while private sector employees’ holiday payment terms may be specified in individual employment contracts. Therefore, it’s important to review your specific employment agreement or consult with your employer to understand your holiday entitlements.
How should international businesses plan around Togo’s holidays?
International businesses should incorporate Togo’s public holidays into their project planning and communication schedules well in advance. Government offices and most businesses close during national holidays, which can affect official transactions, bank transfers, and business communications. Plan critical deadlines around these dates, especially during busy periods like May when five holidays occur within four weeks. Using time zone converters and scheduling tools can help coordinate meetings with Togolese partners while respecting their holiday observances. Additionally, building buffer time into project timelines that account for these holidays demonstrates cultural awareness and facilitates smoother business relationships.
What happens when a public holiday falls on a weekend?
When a public holiday falls on a weekend in Togo, the observance of a substitute day off varies by employer and sector. In 2026, three holidays fall on weekends: Day of the Martyrs (Sunday, June 21), Assumption of Mary (Saturday, August 15), and All Saints’ Day (Sunday, November 1). Some employers, particularly in the public sector, may provide a substitute day off on the following Monday, while others may not. Private companies typically determine this according to their internal policies or employment contracts. Therefore, it’s best to check with your specific employer or consult your employment agreement to understand how weekend holidays are handled in your workplace.