Public holidays in The Gambia include New Year’s Day, Easter, Labour Day and Christmas. Independence Day is celebrated on 18 February and the Anniversary of the Second Republic, on 22 July. Most of these holidays are celebrated with traditional dances and local wrestling competitions. The largely Muslim population celebrates Eid al-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir and Maulud-el-Nabi. Since the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycles, these festivals fall on different dates every year.
The International Roots Festival is the most popular event in The Gambia. Held in late June/early July, the event attracts people of African descent from all over the world who wish to get in touch with their roots. Traditional music, dance and artwork are displayed and excursions to significant historical sites are held.
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