By Iyad, Syria Travel Specialist at Syria Link · Published Updated
Overview
Syria is a country rich in religious and cultural diversity, and its calendar reflects this beautifully. From ancient Christian traditions and Islamic observances to national celebrations of independence and revolution, Syria's holidays offer visitors a unique window into the country's soul.
Christian Holidays
- Easter — Associated with a spring festival that celebrates Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Traditionally there are two Easter celebrations, one on the evening before Palm Sunday and one on Easter morning.
- Christmas — December 25th, the birthday of Jesus Christ. On Eve there is a celebration called Nargaz (the Arabic word for "surprise") that involves presents being given to children as well as a visit from Santa Claus.
Main Islamic Holidays
- Eid al-Adha — Also known as Eid al-Kabir (the Great Eid). This holiday marks the end of Ramadan. In celebration, Muslims sacrifice a cow or a ram in honor of the prophet Abraham's obedience.
- Prophet Muhammad's Birthday — One of the two most important Muslim holidays, along with Eid al-Fitr.
- Eid al-Fitr — Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
Main National Holidays
- Revolution Day — March 8th. Celebrates the revolution that took place in Syria in 1963.
- Independence Day — April 17th. Syria's independence is celebrated as a holiday honoring the nation.
- Mother's Day — March 21. Syria is one of the first Arab countries to celebrate this holiday after Egypt.
- Martyrs' Day — May 6th. Honors Syrian martyrs.
- Armed Forces Day — August 1st.
- October Liberation Day — October 6th.
Full List of Public Holidays
- New Year — January 1
- Revolution Day — March 8
- March Equinox — March 20
- Mothers' Day — March 21
- Daylight Saving Time — March 24
- Easter Sunday — April 17
- Independence Day — April 17
- Orthodox Easter Day — April 24
- Eid al-Fitr — May 3
- Martyrs' Day — May 6
- Eid al-Adha — July 10
- Muharram (Islamic New Year) — July 30
- Armed Forces Day — August 1
- September Equinox — September 23
- October Liberation Day — October 6
- The Prophet's Birthday — October 8
- Christmas Day — December 25