Ecuador, a country rich in cultural diversity and traditions, celebrates various national and local holidays throughout the year. These days not only mark historical and religious milestones, but also promote domestic tourism and family unity. Here we present a detail of the 2025 holidays, their dates and what is commemorated on each occasion, accompanied by reliable sources for further information.
National holidays 2025 in Ecuador.
- New Year's Day - Wednesday, January 1 This day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar. In Ecuador, the New Year is celebrated with traditional rituals such as the burning of effigies or "old years," which represent a farewell to the bad things of the previous year and the welcome of new beginnings.
More information: Extra - Carnival - Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th March
Carnival, celebrated two days before the start of Lent, is a holiday with Christian and pre-Columbian roots. In Ecuador, it is characterized by parades, music, dancing and the traditional water, flour and color war in cities such as Guaranda and Ambato.
More information: Public Holidays - Good Friday - April 18
Part of Holy Week, this day commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Throughout the country, especially in Quito and Cuenca, solemn processions and liturgical events are held that attract thousands of people.
More information: Wikipedia
- Labor Day - Friday, May 2 (moved from May 1)
On this day, labor rights and the struggles of workers around the world are honored. In Ecuador, it is common to see marches and events organized by unions and workers.
More information: Public Holidays
- Battle of Pichincha - Friday, May 23 (moved from May 24)
This holiday commemorates the 1822 battle that secured Quito's independence and marked an important step toward Ecuador's liberation from Spanish rule. Parades and civic events are held in Quito.
More information: Extra
- First Cry of Independence - Monday, August 11 (moved from August 10)
In 1809, Quito was the first territory in Latin America to declare its independence from Spain. This day celebrates the revolutionary spirit with cultural activities and civic parades.
More information: Extra
- Independence of Guayaquil - Friday, October 10 (moved from October 9)
It commemorates the independence of Guayaquil in 1820, which marked the beginning of a series of key events for the independence of Ecuador. The city organizes parades, concerts and solemn events.
More information: Wikipedia
- All Souls' Day - Tuesday, November 4 (moved from November 2)
On this day, Ecuadorian families honor their deceased loved ones. It is tradition to visit cemeteries, bring flowers, and share typical foods such as colada morada and guaguas de pan.
More information: Public Holidays
- Independence of Cuenca - Monday, November 3
This day commemorates the independence of the city of Cuenca in 1820. The celebration includes fairs, concerts and parades that highlight the culture of the southern region of the country.
More information: Extra
- Christmas - Thursday, December 25
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. In Ecuador, families gather to eat dinner and participate in novenas and midnight masses. It is a time of solidarity and unity.
More information: Wikipedia
Local holidays in Ecuador
Each province and city in the country has its own public holidays related to specific historical or religious events. Some notable examples for 2025 are:
- Foundation of Quito (Pichincha) : Saturday, December 6. Celebrated with cultural events, parades and massive concerts in the capital.
- Independence of Portoviejo (Manabí) : Saturday, October 18.
- Cuenca Foundation (Azuay) : Saturday, April 12.
- Cantonization of Manta (Manabí) : Tuesday, November 4.
For more local holidays and their celebrations, see: Extra and Wikipedia .
Impact of holidays on tourism and the economy
Holidays in Ecuador are not only an opportunity for rest, but also have a significant impact on the economy and tourism. According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, during long holidays, destinations such as the beaches of the Coast, the Amazon and the historic cities of Quito and Cuenca experience an increase in the influx of visitors. This generates income for sectors such as hotels, transportation and gastronomy.
In addition, local holidays highlight the traditions and heritage of each region. For example, the Carnival in Guaranda and the Fiesta de la Mama Negra in Latacunga are events that attract both national and international tourists.
School calendar and its relationship with holidays
The school calendar in Ecuador also adjusts to the holidays, varying between the Costa-Galapagos and Sierra-Amazon regions:
- In the Galapagos Coast , the 2024-2025 school year ends in February, and vacations begin in March.
- In the Sierra-Amazon region , the school year ends in June and the holidays begin in July.
This allows students to enjoy holidays with their families and participate in cultural and recreational activities.
More information: Extra .
Ecuador’s 2025 holiday calendar reflects a rich blend of history, culture, and religious traditions. These days are not only a time to remember and celebrate, but also to strengthen family and cultural ties. Whether enjoying Carnival in Ambato, commemorating Guayaquil’s independence, or sharing a Christmas dinner, each holiday has a special meaning in the lives of Ecuadorians.
To better plan your activities and trips, check out more details at: