Travelling for a religious event can be an important moment in your life. Read this page to learn about:
This list isn't comprehensive. It doesn't aim to cover all religious events for all cultures. It discusses some of the key events around the world that can impact Australians overseas.
Christmas and Easter
Each year, 2 billion Christians around the world celebrate Christmas and Easter around the world.
In most countries that celebrate Christmas, it's a national holiday. The main celebration is Christmas day, each year on 25 December. In some countries, it's Christmas eve on 24 December. In others, it's 6 January.
Easter commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus on Good Friday, then celebrates the resurrection on Easter Sunday. Easter is in March or April, with exact dates changing each year.
Christmas and Easter celebrations particularly impact Australians travelling in Europe and the Americas. It also impacts travellers in predominantly Christian countries in Africa and the Pacific.
Diwali
Each year, a billion Hindu, Sikh, and Jain people celebrate Deepavali (Diwali).
Also known as the 'Festival of Lights', Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali celebrations particularly impact Australians travelling to India, Nepal and the island of Bali in Indonesia.
- Learn more about Diwali (Government of India).
Hajj
Over three million people perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah (Mecca) each year. If you're travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, it's important to be well prepared.
- Read our information and advice about the Hajj.
- See our travel advice for Saudi Arabia.
Ramadan and Eid ul-Fitr
Most of the world's 1.6 billion Muslims observe the holy month of Ramadan each year.
You can expect to find nationwide Ramadan celebrations in countries where Islam is the national religion. You'll also come across Ramadan celebrations in other destinations with Muslim populations.
- See our information and advice on Ramadan and Eid ul-Fitr.
Read more
- see our general advice for taking care of your health.
- see our general advice about staying safe and avoiding danger.
- Read our travel advisory for your destination.