Trinidad and Tobago's colonial history has brought together cultures from Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. This has resulted in many traditions and religious celebrations representing each ethnic group to be firmly entrenched in our society. Almost every month something is scheduled; resulting in at least 13 public holidays yearly.

ARRIVAL DAY
This recognises the various races from across the globe that have settled in Trinidad and Tobago.

DIVALI
This Hindu festival is known as the Festival of Lights. Traditionally deyas (wick-equipped clay pots) are lighted in honour of Mother Lakshmi; the goddess of light, beauty, riches and love.

EID-UL-FITR
This marks the end of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim year), during which fasting is practised from sunrise to sunset. Favourite Indian foods are prepared for friends and neighbours of all beliefs as part of the tradition for completing the fast. The date for this festival depends on the sighting of the new moon and varies from year to year.

EMANCIPATION DAY
This public holiday marks the anniversary of the abolition of slavery.

SHOUTER BAPTIST LIBERATION DAY
This day commemorates the abolition of the British-instituted Shouters Prohibition Ordinance. This ordance forbade participation in this African-influenced religion.