The 2026 All Saints’ Day Holidays in French Guiana

In French Guiana, All Saints’ Day is an important time for tradition and remembrance. In 2026, it will be celebrated on Sunday, November 1st.

Every year, families gather in cemeteries to honour the memory of loved ones who have passed away. Graves are cleaned, restored and decorated with flowers before being illuminated by numerous candles. Combining religious traditions, remembrance and family gatherings, All Saints’ Day also offers an opportunity to discover customs deeply rooted in French Guianese culture.

The former penal colony guards’ cemetery on Saint-Joseph Island, one of the Îles du Salut in French Guiana.

What Are the Dates of the All Saints’ Day Holidays in French Guiana?

In French Guiana, the 2026 All Saints’ Day holidays run from Saturday, October 17 to Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

How is All Saints’ Day celebrated in French Guiana?

Preparations begin several days before November 1. Families visit cemeteries to clean, repaint, renovate and decorate their loved ones’ graves with flowers.

As All Saints’ Day approaches, local “jobeurs” also offer their services to clean or renovate graves. This activity can be seen around cemeteries in French Guiana at this time of year.

On the evening of November 1, families gather in cemeteries with flowers and candles. As night falls, the many candles placed on the graves gradually illuminate the cemeteries.

Beyond remembrance, gatherings in cemeteries on All Saints’ Day are also moments for families to reconnect and pass down traditions. In French Guiana, families come together to remember loved ones who have passed away, in an atmosphere where remembrance, religious traditions and family ties come together.

What to do in French Guiana during the All Saints' vacation?

The All Saints' vacation in French Guiana coincides with the dry season, which runs from July to December. This is undoubtedly one of the best times to discover French Guiana in all its splendor. Here are just a few of the activities you can enjoy during your stay:

• Introduction to big-game fishing : Guyana's coastal waters offer excellent opportunities for fishing enthusiasts looking for a thrill. Big-game fishing is an unforgettable experience for all sea lovers.

• Canoe-Kayak Excursion : Explore the region's many rivers, streams and mangroves by canoe-kayak. It's a unique way to immerse yourself in Guyana's natural beauty while experiencing thrilling adventures.

• Discover the flora and fauna : Guyana's biodiversity is quite simply extraordinary. Take advantage of this season to observe rare species, exotic birds, dolphins, sea turtles and many other fascinating creatures in their natural environment.

• Amerindian village visits : Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring Guyana's Amerindian villages. You'll have the opportunity to learn more about their traditions, crafts and authentic way of life.

• Excursion to the Isles of Salut : Don't forget to explore the Isles of Salut, located off the coast of French Guiana. These islands carry a rich history, with remnants of the French colonial era, including the former penal colony.

Activities are not the only attraction during this special period.

French Guiana: a land of cultural diversity

French Guiana stands out for the diversity of cultures and traditions found throughout its territory. This richness can be seen in its heritage, local know-how, cuisine, celebrations and the different cultural practices passed down through generations.

Make the most of your stay to discover this diversity, explore places that tell the story of French Guiana and enjoy the cultural activities available throughout the territory.