Easter Monday in The Gambia
Easter Monday is a public holiday throughout The Gambia, observed as part of the Christian feast of Easter. Its date changes each year, and the government’s holiday calendar lists it as a date that varies.[1][2]
Nationwide public holiday
The Office of the President has declared Easter Monday a public holiday throughout the country in multiple years. The announcements describe it as part of the Easter celebration and, in one notice, identify the declaration as made under section 76(1) of the 1997 Constitution.[2][3]
This nationwide status applies beyond the Christian community: the declarations cover the country, while the President’s Easter messages specifically extend wishes to Christians. Check with your employer about any separate Easter Monday entitlement for particular groups of workers.[2][3]
Meaning in the Easter season
In The Gambia’s official notices, Easter Monday is presented as part of the Christian holy feast of Easter. A government notice also refers to Christian leaders and congregations observing 40 days of fasting and prayer in commemoration of Easter, placing the holiday within a wider period of Christian observance.[2][4]
The government’s holiday calendar lists both Good Friday and Easter Monday, and says their dates vary. Easter Monday follows the Easter Sunday celebration; its moveable date means it does not fall on the same calendar date every year.[1][2]
Observance and community life
Easter Monday is recognised as a public holiday in The Gambia as part of the Christian Easter feast.[2][4]
The President’s 2020 Easter message paired greetings to the Christian community with an appeal to all Gambians to support peaceful coexistence and reconciliation. This reflects the public, national framing of the holiday alongside its Christian significance.[4]
Dates and practical planning
Easter Monday’s date varies with Easter, as the government’s holiday calendar states. The President’s Office has also announced a general rule that, from that advisory onward, when a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday is declared a public holiday. Because Easter Monday itself is a Monday, that weekend rule does not move its usual observance.[1][5]
A public holiday declaration does not, by itself, confirm the opening hours of a particular bank, office, shop or transport service. If you need an appointment, banking service or journey on the day, check directly with the relevant provider.[2][3]
Frequently asked questions
Is Easter Monday a public holiday in The Gambia?
When is Easter Monday?
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Check with the bank, shop or transport provider you plan to use for its opening hours or service schedule.
Is there a substitute day if Easter Monday falls on a weekend?
The President’s Office has announced a general rule for a public holiday falling on Saturday or Sunday: the following Monday is declared a public holiday. Easter Monday is itself a Monday, so that rule does not normally shift it.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Easter Monday in Gambia:
- Important Dates- The Official Website of The Government of The Gambia
- Good Friday and Easter Monday declared Public Holidays- Office of The President, Republic of The Gambia
- President Barrow Declares Public Holidays in Observance of Easter- Office of The President, Republic of The Gambia
- Public Holidays - Good Friday and Easter Monday- Office of The President, Republic of The Gambia
- Media Advisory on Public Holidays- Office of The President, Republic of The Gambia