Mozambique has several public holidays each year and these are divided into national and regional holidays. Being a country with such religious diversity, it does not mind that many religions have their holy days officially recognized, although adherents of certain religions will still observe them these days. The number of holidays in a calendar year is somewhat lower than in other African countries and is in line with what one would expect in an international environment.

Public holidays

Mozambique has 9 nationally recognized holidays each year, and they all have fixed dates each year.

Fixed dates:

  • 1 of January New Year.

  • February 3 – Heroes Day. Commemorates the fallen heroes in the struggle for the independence of Portugal.

  • April 7 – Women’s Day

  • May 1 – Labor Day

  • June 25 – Independence Day. Celebrating the day Mozambique formally gained independence from Portugal.

  • September 7 – Victory Day. It commemorates the day independence was initially agreed with Portugal.

  • September 25 – Revolution Day

  • October 4 – Day of Peace and Reconciliation

  • 25th December, Christmas

Festivals

Mozambique is not well known for its festivals, although with a little effort you can discover some interesting activities. While most of the festivities are based on music, there are also some smaller performing arts festivals.

Some of the more popular festivals include:

  • AZGO Festival. This annual music festival normally takes place in May each year in the capital city, Maputo. All kinds of music are performed along with documentaries and some workshops.

  • STRAB Festival. Another music festival that takes place in May, STRAB is a rhythm and blues experience that takes place in Malongane, near the South African border.

  • Independence Day. This holiday is traditionally celebrated with a variety of festivities ranging from live performances to traditional dances. Other cultural events are also held and this day is characterized by a party atmosphere.

  • TAMBO international art camp. Based in the city of Pemba, this festival normally takes place in July each year and celebrates a variety of performing arts. This event sometimes attracts international artists, however most are local.

  • CHOPI music festival. Held every year at the end of July, this festival of musis takes place in Quissico. This particular festival is of great interest as it is held to celebrate the traditional music of Mozambique and as such is a really good cultural experience.

  • FORR Festival. This is a new festival that has been established recently and is supposed to be geared towards rock bands. Dates and locations are not set and change from time to time, so it is best to check with local vendors for details.

Religious holidays

Since the various religions are all roughly equal in representation, you will find that each group observes its own religious days. These particular days are worth keeping an eye on as this will affect the availability of some services.

James

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