Festivals & Traditions in Guyana

Explore Guyana's vibrant mix of national festivals, religious celebrations, and cultural traditions that reflect its rich, diverse heritage.

Major National Festivals

Mashramani (Republic Day) - February 23: Guyana's biggest national celebration with parades, costumes, music, and street parties.
Independence Day - May 26: Marked with flag-raising ceremonies, cultural shows, and national pride events.
Emancipation Day - August 1: Celebrates African heritage with drumming, dance, traditional clothing, and food.
Arrival Day - May 5: Honors the arrival and contributions of Indian, Chinese, Portuguese, and other indentured communities.
CARICOM Day - First Monday in July: Celebrates regional unity and Caribbean identity.

Phagwah (Holi): Festival of colors, joy, and spring, celebrated with colored powder, music, and community gatherings.
Diwali: Festival of Lights, marked by diyas, motorcades, sweets, and family prayers.

Christmas: Widely celebrated with parang music, pepperpot, black cake, and family gatherings.
Easter: Known for kite-flying traditions, church services, and family outings.

Eid-ul-Fitr: Marks the end of Ramadan with prayers, charity, and feasting.
Eid-ul-Adha: Commemorates sacrifice, sharing, and community giving.
Youman-Nabi: Observance of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Rupununi Rodeo (Easter Weekend): A major Indigenous and ranching tradition with bull riding, horse racing, and cultural displays.
Bartica Regatta (Easter Weekend): Boat races, pageants, concerts, and water sports on the Essequibo River.
Moruca Expo: Celebrates Indigenous culture, craft, and food in the Moruca region.
Amerindian Heritage Month - September: A month-long celebration of Guyana's First Peoples, including Heritage Village Day.
GuyExpo (when hosted): National trade, business, and innovation exhibition.
Diwali Motorcade: Nighttime parade of illuminated floats and religious symbolism.
Christmas Village: Seasonal lights, markets, and family activities, especially in Georgetown.

Pepperpot & Bread on Christmas Morning: A beloved Guyanese Christmas breakfast tradition.
Kite Flying at Easter: Symbolizes resurrection, freedom, and joy.
Creole & Indigenous Craft Traditions: Basket weaving, pottery, beadwork, and other handmade arts.
Village Day Celebrations: Community gatherings with food, music, sports, and games.
Nine-Night / Wake Traditions: Cultural practices surrounding mourning, remembrance, and community support.
Mash Costume & Float Building: Community groups prepare elaborate costumes and floats months in advance of Mashramani.