All Saints’ Day in Cape Verde
All Saints’ Day, or Dia de Todos os Santos, falls on November 1 in Cape Verde and is listed as a public holiday. Its local significance is both religious and civic: the state recognizes the date among Catholic feast days and protects the ability to observe religious duties.[1]
Holiday status and the fixed date
A protocol between the Government of Cape Verde and the Catholic Church lists All Saints among the Catholic feast days considered national and local holidays under applicable law. It says the dates take effect under specific regulations and may be reviewed in light of the liturgical calendar and the country’s social and cultural context.[1]
The protocol also says essential activities involving Catholic workers should allow them to fulfil religious duties. Workers and students may request time off or adjusted hours in advance, subject to labour and education rules.
Religious meaning
In Catholic observance, All Saints honours the great multitude of saints, including those celebrated by name during the liturgical year and those known only to God. The feast also points to holiness as a calling for the faithful.[2]
That religious meaning is reflected in Cape Verde’s official treatment of the date: the protocol names All Saints among the Catholic feast days recognized as holidays and protects the opportunity for religious observance.[1]
Observance in Cape Verde
The protocol recognizes the Catholic Church’s right to hold liturgical celebrations and religious acts in public and private places. It also protects Catholics’ ability to fulfil religious duties on recognized feast days, including through advance requests for schedule adjustments.[1]
Catholic observance centres on All Saints as a feast honouring saints celebrated during the liturgical year and those known only to God.[2]
Planning around the holiday
The holiday’s public status can affect work and institutional schedules. The protocol says the state will publish recognized Catholic feast days so employers and public institutions can adapt their activities.[1]
For practical planning, check directly with the office, business, school, or transport operator you need.
Frequently asked questions
Is All Saints’ Day a public holiday in Cape Verde?
Yes. The state–Church protocol lists it among Catholic feast days considered national and local holidays under applicable law.[1]
When is All Saints’ Day observed?
It is observed on November 1. The calendar facts for this page list no substitute or observed day.[1]
Does everyone automatically get the day off?
The protocol protects Catholic workers’ ability to fulfil religious duties, including in essential activities. Workers and students may request time off or adjusted hours in advance under applicable labour and education rules.[1]
Are shops, banks, offices, or transport services open?
Check directly with the place or operator you plan to use for opening hours and transport schedules.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for All Saints' Day in Cape Verde:
- Decreto n.º 6/2026- Boletim Oficial da República de Cabo Verde; Conselho de Ministros
- 1 November 2000, Solemnity of All Saints- The Holy See