Maldives

Festivals and Annual Events

The National Day is celebrated in honour of Mohammed Thakurufannu and commemorates his victory over the Portuguese in 1573. It is observed during the month of Rabee-ul-Awwal,

Showing 1–7 of 7 festivals

City guide section

Festivals and events in Maldives

Showing 1–7 of 7 festivals

Plan around 7 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.

National Day of Maldives

The National Day is celebrated in honour of Mohammed Thakurufannu and commemorates his victory over the Portuguese in 1573. It is observed during the month of Rabee-ul-Awwal,

Independence Day of Maldives

On the Independence Day, celebrated on July 26 every year, a special official event is held at the Republic Square.

Maldives had been ruled by a monarchy for about a century and on January 1 1953, became a republic. However, this elected government was transitory as the monarchy was reinstated within the same year.

Eid ul Al Adhaa

Eid ul-Al Adha is celebrated approximately 70 days after Eid ul Fitr. It falls on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Zul-Hijja.

Ramadan

The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is the month of Ramadan and the most prominent event of this month is fasting for 30 days. Muslims observe a fast from sun rise to sun set.

Kuda Eid/Eid ul Fitr

The end of Ramadan is marked by Kuda Eid or Eid ul Fitr, a festival which is celebrated on the 1st of Shawwal with a big feast.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Another important religious festival in the Maldives is the Prophet’s birthday, celebrated on the 12th day of the Rabee-ul-Awwal month of the Islamic calendar.