Myanmar observes a wide range of public holidays rooted in its rich cultural, religious, and historical traditions. Many holidays follow the traditional Burmese lunar calendar, so their dates change each year. Below is a list of key public holidays commonly observed nationwide.
List of Major Public Holidays
| Holiday | Description | Approximate Date |
|---|---|---|
| Independence Day | Celebrates Myanmar’s independence from British rule in 1948. | January 4 |
| Union Day | Marks the signing of the Panglong Agreement in 1947. | February 12 |
| Peasants’ Day | Honors the contributions of Myanmar’s farmers and rural workers. | March 2 |
| Armed Forces Day | Commemorates the founding of the Burmese army in 1945. | March 27 |
| Thingyan (Water Festival) | Burmese New Year festival celebrated with water throwing and cultural events. | Mid-April (4–5 days) |
| Myanmar New Year Day | Official start of the Burmese New Year, following Thingyan. | Mid-April |
| Labour Day | International holiday recognizing workers’ rights. | May 1 |
| Martyrs’ Day | Honors General Aung San and other leaders assassinated in 1947. | July 19 |
| Full Moon of Waso | Marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent (Vassa). | July (Lunar calendar) |
| Full Moon of Thadingyut | Festival of Lights marking the end of Buddhist Lent. | October (Lunar calendar) |
| Full Moon of Tazaungdaing | Celebrated with light festivals and robe-offering ceremonies. | November (Lunar calendar) |
| National Day | Marks the beginning of the student-led independence movement in 1920. | Varies (10th day after Tazaungmon Full Moon) |
| Christmas Day | Observed by Christian communities. | December 25 |
