Major Annual Eritrean Celebrations

1. Independence Day – May 24

This is the biggest national celebration in Eritrea.
People celebrate the country’s independence (achieved in 1991) with military parades, cultural shows, traditional dances, concerts, and nationwide festivals.

2. Martyrs’ Day – June 20

A solemn national day to honor Eritrean martyrs who sacrificed their lives for freedom.
Citizens observe a moment of silence, visit memorial sites, and attend official ceremonies.

3. Fenkil Operation Day – February 10

Commemorates a major military operation in the port city of Massawa in 1990, which played a key role in the road to independence.
Massawa hosts exhibitions, cultural shows, and large gatherings.

4. Eritrean New Year (Ge’ez/Bogeh) – September 11 (approximately)

Celebrated according to the Ge’ez calendar.
Families gather, share meals, and mark the start of a new traditional year.

5. Meskel – September 27

A Christian celebration of the “Finding of the True Cross.”
People light a large bonfire called Demera, accompanied by traditional songs and dancing.

6. Eid al-Fitr

Muslims in Eritrea celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan through communal prayers, visiting family, and sharing festive meals.

7. Eid al-Adha

A major Islamic holiday involving prayer, sacrificial offerings, and family gatherings.

8. Timket (Epiphany) – January 19

A major Christian festival celebrating the baptism of Jesus.
Processions, colorful traditional clothing, and ceremonies are central to the celebration.

9. Christmas (Lidet) – January 7

Celebrated by Orthodox Christians with religious services, family gatherings, and traditional meals.

10. National Festivals (Summer Season)

Held in Asmara and other regions.
These festivals showcase Eritrea’s nine ethnic groups through music, dance, traditional clothing, food, and cultural exhibits.