Antigua and Barbuda Publishes 2026 Public Holidays and Launches Workplace Violence Bill Consultations

Antigua and Barbuda has published the official list of public holidays for 2026. Meanwhile, the government also announced public consultations on a proposed Workplace Violence and Harassment (Prevention) Draft Bill.

According to the Office of the Labour Commissioner, the 2026 public holidays follow the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act 2005. They include New Year’s Day on 1 January, Good Friday on 3 April, and Easter Monday on 6 April. Labour Day falls on 4 May, the first Monday of the month. Whit Monday will be observed on 25 May.

Carnival Monday and Tuesday are scheduled for 3 and 4 August, followed by the National Day of Prayer on 17 September. Independence Day falls on 1 November, but will be observed on Monday, 2 November. V.C. Bird Day will be on 9 December, with Christmas and Boxing Day on 25 and 26 December.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Legal Affairs, Public Safety, Immigration, and Labour has begun public consultations on the draft Workplace Violence and Harassment Bill. The ministry designed the legislation to create safer and more respectful workplaces. It aligns with international labour conventions.

The consultations will include workers, employers, unions, professional bodies, community organizations, and the general public. The government wants input to ensure the legislation addresses real workplace concerns.

The sessions are scheduled as follows: Multipurpose Centre on 28 January, Villa Community Centre on 5 February, J.T. Ambrose Primary School on 11 February, and Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on 18 February. All meetings start at 5:30 pm.

Additionally, the Labour Department has made the draft bill available on the government website. Officials encourage all interested parties to review the bill and attend the consultations.

By publishing the 2026 holiday schedule and launching the consultation process, Antigua and Barbuda ensures that citizens are informed and engaged. These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to both public awareness and workplace safety.

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