Boxing Day in Suriname
In Suriname, December 26 is recognized in law as Tweede Kerstdag, or the second day of Christmas. The law gives it the same rest-day status as Sunday.[1]
A second day of Christmas in Suriname
The Surinamese legal text lists Tweede Kerstdag among the Christian days treated like Sunday. A government announcement about December working hours also refers to December 26 as a public holiday.[1][2]
This makes the Surinamese context specifically a Christmas observance: the legal designation is “Second Christmas Day,” rather than a separate national anniversary.[1]
What the law means for work
Under Suriname’s Labour Act, employees may not work on Sundays or on days legally treated as Sundays. Tweede Kerstdag is included in that group. The Act also provides for authorized exceptions in some circumstances, so the rule does not mean that every workplace must close without exception.[1]
The government’s announcement on December overtime explains that special permissions can cover businesses such as shops, cafés, restaurants, and bakeries during the festive season. It also explains that holiday work can carry higher pay and replacement-rest requirements.[2]
Observances and practical planning
The official legal source confirms the holiday’s designation and work-rest status, but it does not document common family customs, foods, public events, or regional differences for Boxing Day in Suriname. Those details should not be assumed from practices in other countries.[1]
For residents and visitors, December 26 is the date to plan around. Check opening hours and transport schedules with the provider before you go.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
Is Boxing Day a public holiday in Suriname?
When is Boxing Day observed in Suriname?
It is observed on December 26, under the legal designation Tweede Kerstdag, or second Christmas day.[1]
Do workers get the day off?
The Labour Act prohibits work on Sundays and days treated like Sundays, including Tweede Kerstdag. It also allows certain authorized exceptions, so arrangements can depend on the work and applicable permission.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Boxing Day in Suriname:
- Arbeidswet- Overheid van de Republiek Suriname
- December Overwerkvergunning biedt mogelijkheid voor langere werktijden- Ministerie van Arbeid Werkgelegenheid & Jeugdzaken, Overheid van de Republiek Suriname