Cyprus, renowned for its rich cultural and religious traditions, will celebrate numerous public holidays and observances in 2024. These days allow residents and visitors to enjoy time off, participate in cultural events, and immerse themselves in local customs.
January 1 (Monday): New Year’s Day
The beginning of the year in Cyprus is traditionally celebrated with grand festivities. People host parties, set off fireworks, and gather with family and friends to welcome the New Year.
January 6 (Saturday): Epiphany
Epiphany is an important religious holiday commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. On this day, there are solemn church services, the blessing of waters, and traditional swimming rituals.
March 18 (Monday): Green Monday (Clean Monday)
This day marks the beginning of Lent for Orthodox Christians. People spend the day outdoors, have picnics with Lenten dishes, and fly kites.
March 25 (Monday): Greek Independence Day (Annunciation)
This day is dedicated to the start of the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. In Cyprus, it is celebrated with parades and cultural events honoring Greek heritage.
April 1 (Monday): Cyprus National Day (EOKA Day)
April 1 commemorates the start of the Cypriot armed struggle for independence from British colonial rule in 1955. The day is marked by memorial ceremonies and events honoring the heroes of the freedom struggle.
May 1 (Wednesday): Labor Day
International Labor Day is dedicated to the achievements of the labor movement. On this day, demonstrations and cultural events celebrating workers are held.
May 3 (Friday): Good Friday (Orthodox Easter)
Good Friday is one of the most significant days in the Orthodox calendar, commemorating the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Churches hold solemn services, and believers observe a strict fast.
May 5 (Sunday): Easter Sunday (Orthodox Easter)
Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Christ. On the night of Easter, all-night services are held, followed by festive meals with traditional dishes.
May 6 (Monday): Easter Monday
This day is a continuation of the Easter celebrations. People visit friends and relatives, host family dinners, and continue celebrating Easter.
May 7 (Tuesday): Easter Tuesday (Bank Holiday)
An additional holiday for bank employees allows for the continued celebration of Easter.
June 24 (Monday): Whit Monday (Kataklysmos)
The Feast of the Holy Trinity is also known as Kataklysmos or the Festival of the Flood. Coastal towns host mass celebrations, fairs, and water-related events.
August 15 (Thursday): Assumption of the Virgin Mary
This religious holiday is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. On this day, believers visit churches and participate in religious services.
October 1 (Tuesday): Cyprus Independence Day
Cyprus Independence Day marks the declaration of independence from Britain in 1960. The day is celebrated with official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events.
October 28 (Monday): Ochi Day (Day of No)
This day commemorates Greece’s refusal to accept an ultimatum from Italy in 1940. In Cyprus, it is observed with memorial events and parades.
December 25 (Wednesday): Christmas
Christmas is one of the most significant holidays in the Christian calendar. On this day, Christmas services are held, and families gather for festive meals and exchange gifts.
December 26 (Thursday): Boxing Day (St. Stephen’s Day)
Boxing Day, also known as St. Stephen’s Day, is dedicated to visiting friends and relatives and exchanging gifts.
