By Iyad Abo Al Shamat, 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. Both Eastern and Western denominations are recognized.
- Christmas: December 25th, the birthday of Jesus Christ, celebrated by all Christians. 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
Dates vary according to the lunar calendar.
- Eid al-Adha: also known as Eid al-Kabir (the Great Eid). This holiday lasts 4 days. 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. The holiday lasts 3 days.
- Islamic New Year: dates vary according to the lunar calendar.
Main National Holidays
- Syrian Revolution Day: March 18th. A new holiday marking the start of the 2011 uprising.
- 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.
- Labor Day: May 1st.
- Martyrs' Day: May 6th. Honors Syrian martyrs.
- Armed Forces Day: August 1st.
- Liberation Day: December 8th. Commemorates the fall of the Assad regime.
Full List of Public Holidays
- New Year: January 1
- Syrian Revolution Day: March 18
- March Equinox: March 20
- Mothers' Day: March 21
- Daylight Saving Time: March 24
- Easter Sunday (Western): date varies
- Independence Day: April 17
- Orthodox Easter Day (Eastern): date varies
- Eid al-Fitr: 3 days; dates vary according to the lunar calendar
- Labor Day: May 1
- Martyrs' Day: May 6
- Eid al-Adha: 4 days; dates vary according to the lunar calendar
- Muharram (Islamic New Year): dates vary according to the lunar calendar
- Armed Forces Day: August 1
- September Equinox: September 23
- Liberation Day: December 8
- The Prophet's Birthday: dates vary according to the lunar calendar
- Christmas Day: December 25 (for all Christians)
Festivals in Syria
Syria is home to a rich tapestry of festivals, with one standing out as particularly famous and unique.
The Marmarita Festival is a vibrant carnival held every August in the village of Marmarita (in the Wadi al-Nasara region), widely considered one of the country's biggest and most significant events.
What Makes the Marmarita Festival Special?
- A Unique Blend of Cultures: It has its origins in the early 20th century when locals who had migrated to South America returned and brought back carnival traditions, blending them with local Christian heritage.
- Vibrant Celebrations: The festival kicks off on August 14th, coinciding with the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It features parades with elaborate costumes, music, dance, and floats.
- Symbol of Resilience: The event attracts visitors from across Syria and abroad, and since the civil war, it has become a powerful symbol of resilience and joy for the Syrian people.