Public Holidays - GOV.KY
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Public Holidays
The Cayman Islands Government’s Cabinet recently approved the addition of the Emancipation Day holiday in commemoration of the abolition of slavery in the Cayman Islands on the first Monday in May beginning in 2024.
Discovery Day will be retained and celebrated on the third Monday of May.
The Public Holiday Act 2007 sets out the Sovereign’s official birthday celebration as “The Monday following the Saturday appointed in the United Kingdom as the official birthday of the reigning sovereign”. The confirmation regarding the date of the King’s Birthday public holiday in the Cayman Islands is awaited.
To commemorate the official passage of the Atlantic hurricane season which ends on 30th November, Cayman Thanksgiving is celebrated on the first Sunday in December. Whilst not a public holiday, this observance was agreed in Cabinet and is officially recognised as part of the national calendar.
The 2025 public holidays in the Cayman Islands are listed below.
2025 Calendar
Jan
1
New Year's Day
01 January 2025
New Year’s Day marks the first public holiday of the year and is observed on 1 January. People celebrate the occasion with family gatherings, church services, and community events, welcoming the year ahead with reflection and optimism. Government offices and most businesses close for the day.
Jan
27
National Heroes Day
27 January 2025
Remembering our national heroes and honouring residents who have made valuable contributions to our nation.
Mar
5
Ash Wednesday
05 March 2025
Ash Wednesday is a national public holiday marking the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar — a time of reflection, prayer, and renewal. In the Cayman Islands, it also features the Agricultural Show, one of the nation’s longest-running cultural traditions. Government offices, schools, and most businesses close for the day.
Apr
18
Good Friday
18 April 2025
Good Friday is observed as a solemn public holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many families attend church services and spend quiet time with loved ones. Alcohol sales are restricted by law, and most establishments remain closed until the following day.
Apr
21
Easter Monday
21 April 2025
Easter Monday continues the Easter celebration with community picnics, camping on the beach, and family gatherings across all three islands. The long weekend is a cherished time for relaxation and reflection before returning to work and school.
Apr
21
General Election and Referendum Day
21 April 2025
Election and Referendum Day is observed as a national public holiday in the Cayman Islands to allow all eligible voters the opportunity to participate fully in the democratic process. On this day, citizens cast their ballots to elect Members of Parliament and vote on national issues through a referendum.
Government offices, schools, and most businesses close to ensure everyone has access to the polls. The day reflects the Cayman Islands’ ongoing commitment to good governance, civic engagement, and the right of every citizen to have a voice in shaping the nation’s future.
May
5
Emancipation Day
05 May 2025
Emancipation Day is observed as a national public holiday in the Cayman Islands, commemorating the abolition of slavery in the British Empire and celebrating the freedom of the islands’ enslaved population. It recognises the unique chapter in Cayman’s history when all formerly enslaved people were granted full freedom without a period of apprenticeship.
The day is marked by church services, heritage activities, and community gatherings that honour the resilience, faith, and contributions of the ancestors who helped shape the Cayman Islands. Government offices, schools, and most businesses close to allow citizens to take part in the day’s observances.
May
19
Discovery Day
19 May 2025
Discovery Day is observed as a national public holiday in the Cayman Islands, commemorating the sighting of the islands by Christopher Columbus on 10 May 1503 during his fourth voyage to the New World. The day recognises this historic event as the first recorded encounter between the Cayman Islands and the wider world.
Today, Discovery Day is an occasion to reflect on the islands’ heritage and progress, often marked by community gatherings, cultural activities, and family events celebrating Caymanian identity and history. Government offices, schools, and most businesses close for the day.
Jun
23
King's Birthday
23 June 2025
The King’s Birthday is a public holiday celebrating the official birthday of His Majesty The King. The occasion is marked by a ceremonial parade outside of Government House, the reading of the Governor’s message, and the presentation of honours and awards to outstanding citizens.
Jul
7
Constitution Day
07 July 2025
Constitution Day is observed as a national public holiday in the Cayman Islands, marking the adoption of the country’s first written constitution on 4 July 1959. This milestone established the foundation for modern self-governance and affirmed the principles of democracy, justice, and good government.
Nov
10
Remembrance Day
10 November 2025
Remembrance Day is observed as a national public holiday in the Cayman Islands to honour the men and women who served and sacrificed their lives in times of war and conflict. The observance pays tribute to Caymanians and others who defended the values of freedom, peace, and democracy.
A solemn wreath-laying ceremony is held at the Cenotaph in George Town and in Cayman Brac, attended by veterans, uniformed services, government officials, and members of the public.
Dec
7
Cayman Thanksgiving
07 December 2025 - 07 November 2025
Cayman Thanksgiving is an observance dedicated to gratitude, unity, and reflection. It was established as a time for residents to give thanks for the many blessings of the year including protection throughout the Atlantic hurricane season and to celebrate the Cayman Islands’ enduring faith, resilience, and sense of community.
Dec
25
Christmas Day
25 December 2025
Christmas Day is a deeply cherished public holiday in the Cayman Islands, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Families gather for church services, festive meals, and community outreach events that highlight the spirit of giving.
Dec
26
Boxing Day
26 December 2025
Boxing Day follows Christmas and is traditionally a time for relaxation and community activities. Many residents spend the day visiting friends and extended family, enjoying beach outings, and attending local sporting events.
