Official 2026 Sri Lanka Public Holidays Calendar Released: 26 Days Off, Including Major Festivals in April & May
The Government Printing Department of Sri Lanka has officially released the 2026 public holidays calendar, featuring 26 nationwide public holidays. April and May are the most festive months, with eight holidays combined—including Sinhala and Tamil New Year (April 14), Vesak Poya Day (May 1), and International Labour Day (also May 1).
With just three days left before the dawn of 2026, the Government Printing Department of Sri Lanka has officially unveiled the 2026 public holidays calendar, featuring 26 nationwide public holidays. Among these, April and May emerge as the standout months, offering a combined total of eight public holidays—making them the most festive and restful period of the year.
Key Highlights of Sri Lanka’s 2026 Public Holidays
- Sinhala and Tamil New Year 2026: Celebrated on Tuesday, April 14, preceded by a public holiday on Monday, April 13 (New Year’s Eve).
- Vesak & Labour Day Coincide: Friday, May 1, 2026 marks both Vesak Full Moon Poya Day—one of Buddhism’s most sacred observances—and International Labour Day, creating a powerful dual holiday.
- Christmas on a Friday: December 25, 2026 falls on a Friday, offering the perfect setup for a long weekend to close the year.
Full List of 2026 Public Holidays in Sri Lanka
All dates listed below are official public holidays applicable across government and private sectors, including key institutions such as the Department of Posts, Sri Lanka Customs, and the Department of Meteorology.
January
- Sat, Jan 3 – Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
- Thu, Jan 15 – Tamil Thai Pongal Day
February
- Sun, Feb 1 – Navam Full Moon Poya Day
- Wed, Feb 4 – Independence Day
- Sun, Feb 15 – Maha Shivaratri Day
March
- Mon, Mar 2 – Medin Full Moon Poya Day
- Sat, Mar 21 – Eid-ul-Fitr (Ramadan Festival)
April
- Wed, Apr 1 – Bak Full Moon Poya Day
- Fri, Apr 3 – Good Friday
- Mon, Apr 13 – Day before Sinhala & Tamil New Year
- Tue, Apr 14 – Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day
May
- Fri, May 1 – Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
- Fri, May 1 – International Labour Day
- Sat, May 2 – Day after Vesak Poya
- Thu, May 28 – Eid al-Adha (Hajj Festival)
- Sat, May 30 – Adhi Poson Full Moon Poya Day
June
- Mon, Jun 29 – Poson Full Moon Poya Day
July
- Wed, Jul 29 – Esala Full Moon Poya Day
August
- Wed, Aug 26 – Milad-un-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday)
- Thu, Aug 27 – Nikini Full Moon Poya Day
September
- Sat, Sep 26 – Binara Full Moon Poya Day
October
- Sun, Oct 25 – Vap Full Moon Poya Day
November
- Sun, Nov 8 – Deepavali (Diwali) Festival Day
- Tue, Nov 24 – Ill Full Moon Poya Day
December
- Wed, Dec 23 – Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day
- Fri, Dec 25 – Christmas Day
Important Notes from the Government Printing Department
- All Full Moon Poya Days are recognized as public holidays following approval by the Poya Committee.
- These holidays are mandatory for all employees, regardless of sector.
- Any amendments or additions to the 2026 public holiday schedule will be formally announced via Official Gazette notifications.
Plan Ahead with Sri Lanka’s 2026 Holiday Calendar
Whether you’re scheduling vacations, business operations, or cultural celebrations, this comprehensive list ensures you stay informed and prepared. April and May 2026 offer exceptional opportunities for extended breaks—ideal for travel, family gatherings, or spiritual observance.
Bookmark this page for your go-to reference on Sri Lanka’s official 2026 public holidays!
Source: Government Printing Department, Sri Lanka – Published December 2025
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