Ecuador (EC)
Ecuador is one of the most popular expat countries in the Americas in 2026, especially for retirees, remote-income households, investors, teachers, entrepreneurs and families who want US-dollar living, affordable private healthcare, varied climates and established foreign-resident communities.
Capital: Quito
Region: Americas
Language: Spanish
Currency: USD ($)
Cost of living: Very affordable (index 32)
Emergency: 911
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Public Holidays 2026
12 holidays in Ecuador. Some may vary by region.
January 2026
Thu 1
New Year's Day Public Holiday
Ano Nuevo
National public holiday. Banks, schools, government offices and most businesses close.
February 2026
Mon 16
Carnival Monday Public Holiday
Lunes de Carnaval
National public holiday. Heavy travel to beaches, Ambato and family destinations; book transport early.
Tue 17
Carnival Tuesday Public Holiday
Martes de Carnaval
National public holiday. Expect water play, traffic, hotel demand and closures.
April 2026
Fri 3
Good Friday Public Holiday
Viernes Santo
National public holiday. Religious processions and beach travel make transport busy.
May 2026
Fri 1
Labour Day Public Holiday
Dia del Trabajo
National public holiday. Government offices and banks close.
Mon 25
Battle of Pichincha Public Holiday
Batalla de Pichincha
National holiday commemorating the 1822 battle that secured independence for Quito. Official date May 24 falls on Sunday in 2026 — observed Monday May 25.
August 2026
Mon 10
First Cry of Independence Public Holiday
Primer Grito de Independencia
National public holiday commemorating Quito's 1809 independence movement.
October 2026
Fri 9
Independence of Guayaquil Public Holiday
Independencia de Guayaquil
National public holiday; Guayaquil celebrations and coastal travel are busy.
November 2026
Mon 2
All Souls' Day Public Holiday
Dia de los Difuntos
National public holiday associated with cemetery visits, guaguas de pan and colada morada.
Tue 3
Independence of Cuenca Public Holiday
Independencia de Cuenca
National public holiday; Cuenca is especially busy with cultural events.
December 2026
Fri 25
Christmas Day Public Holiday
Navidad
National public holiday. Family travel, church services and closures are common.
Thu 31
New Year's Eve Optional
Fin de Ano
Not always a full public holiday, but many offices reduce hours. Ano viejo effigies, fireworks and road closures are common.
Note: Some holidays in Ecuador apply only to specific regions or states. Check local regulations for your area.