About New Year's Day in Algeria
New Year's Day is a public holiday in Algeria on 1 January. It marks the first day of the Gregorian year and is distinct from both the Islamic New Year and the Amazigh New Year in Algeria's calendar.
Three new-year dates in one calendar
Algeria's holiday calendar recognizes several calendar traditions. The Gregorian New Year falls on 1 January, Amazigh New Year follows on 12 January, and Islamic New Year arrives on 1 Muharram. Each has its own meaning and calculation, so the three pages should not be treated as duplicate names for the same holiday.
Legal status and date
Law 18-12 added 1 January, the Gregorian New Year, to the list of legal holidays. Its date is fixed and needs no astronomical or lunar confirmation. Presidential New Year messages and public-service arrangements also mark the occasion nationally, while individual celebrations remain a personal choice.
Planning for 1 January
Public institutions operate on holiday schedules, and some businesses or transport services may reduce their hours. Because the day follows New Year's Eve, late-evening and early-morning timetables can differ from normal service. Confirm travel, reservations and necessary shopping in advance rather than relying on ordinary weekday hours.
Common questions about New Year's Day
Is 1 January a public holiday in Algeria?
Yes. Algerian law recognizes 1 January as the Gregorian New Year public holiday.
Is it the same as Amazigh or Islamic New Year?
No. They use different calendars and are listed as separate Algerian public holidays.