Benin
Holidays & Observances in Benin
Benin is a West African country separated into many tribal groups. Customs and beliefs vary between the differing groups. Though Christianity and Islam are very popular in Benin, many people still practice indigenous religions, the most popular of which is Vodoun, known as Voodoo in the western world. Followers of Vodoun believe that everything in nature is governed by spirits. Each year the Beninese people celebrate a holiday called Traditional Day, which celebrates Vodoun and attracts many followers from other parts of the world. Other religious holidays are Christian and Muslim, celebrated individually by followers of each religion.
Upcoming Popular Holidays
Country Observances
| Holiday Date | Country Holiday | Observance Type | Religion/Belief |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independence Day Benin | Public | ||
| Assumption of Mary | Religious/Beliefs | Christianity | |
| All Saints' Day | Religious/Beliefs | Christianity, Catholic | |
| Christmas Eve | Religious/Beliefs, Popular & Widely Observed | Christianity | |
| Christmas | Public | ||
| Christmas | Public, Religious/Beliefs, Popular & Widely Observed | Christianity | |
| New Year's Day | Popular & Widely Observed | ||
| International Women's Day | Popular & Widely Observed | ||
| Good Friday | Religious/Beliefs | Christianity | |
| Easter | Religious/Beliefs, Popular & Widely Observed | Christianity | |
| Easter Monday | Religious/Beliefs | Christianity | |
| Labour Day / May Day | Public, Popular & Widely Observed | ||
| Ascension Day | Religious/Beliefs | Christianity | |
| Pentecost / Whit Sunday | Religious/Beliefs | Christianity |
Public Holidays
| Country Holiday | Holiday Date |
|---|---|
| Independence Day Benin | |
| Christmas | |
| Christmas | |
| Labour Day / May Day |
Celebrate
