Public Holidays in Lebanon in 2024
Lebanon, a small but culturally diverse country in the Middle East, celebrates various public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the nation’s religious, cultural, and historical significance. In 2024, Lebanon will observe a range of public holidays, each with its own importance and customs.
National Holidays
New Year’s Day (عيد رأس السنة الميلادية) – January 1st
New Year’s Day in Lebanon marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is celebrated with parties, fireworks, and gatherings with family and friends. Many Lebanese people also attend church services or participate in cultural events to welcome the new year.
Orthodox Christmas (عيد الميلاد المجيد) – January 7th
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated by the Orthodox Christian community in Lebanon. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar. Orthodox Christians attend church services and participate in traditional customs and rituals to observe the holiday.
Saint Maroun’s Day (عيد مار مارون) – February 9th
Saint Maroun’s Day is celebrated by Maronite Christians in Lebanon to honor the life and teachings of Saint Maroun, the founder of the Maronite Church. It is a religious holiday marked by church services, processions, and prayers. Many Maronites also visit the shrines of Saint Maroun to pay homage and seek blessings.
Independence Day (عيد الاستقلال) – November 22nd
Independence Day in Lebanon commemorates the country’s independence from French mandate rule in 1943. It is one of the most important national holidays in Lebanon, celebrated with flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and patriotic events. Independence Day is a time for Lebanese people to reflect on their nation’s sovereignty and to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.
Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر) – Date varies (based on the Islamic lunar calendar)
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is celebrated with prayers, feasting, and social gatherings. Many Muslims in Lebanon attend communal prayers and share meals with family and friends to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
Eid al-Adha (عيد الأضحى) – Date varies (based on the Islamic lunar calendar)
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of animals, and acts of charity. Many Muslims in Lebanon participate in Eid prayers and share the meat of sacrificial animals with those in need.
Table of Public Holidays and Days Off
| Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Orthodox Christmas | January 7 | 1 | Orthodox Christians |
| Saint Maroun’s Day | February 9 | 1 | Maronite Christians |
| Independence Day | November 22 | 1 | All |
| Eid al-Fitr | Date varies | 1-2 | Muslims |
| Eid al-Adha | Date varies | 1-2 | Muslims |