Meskel in Eritrea
In 2026, Meskel falls on Sunday, 27 September 2026.
Photo by Georgiana Pop (Avram) on UnsplashUpdated 16 Jul 2026
About Meskel
Meskel is a major religious festival celebrated by the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church to commemorate the finding of the True Cross. It is characterized by the lighting of large bonfires, known as Demera, which represent the smoke that guided Queen Helena to the location of the cross. This day is observed with solemn prayers and festive community celebrations throughout the country.
Meskel dates in Eritrea
Observance dates for Meskel across a 10-year window (2023-2031).
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 27 Sep 2023 | Wednesday | Meskel |
| 2024 | 27 Sep 2024 | Friday | Meskel |
| 2025 | 27 Sep 2025 | Saturday | Meskel |
| 2026This year | 27 Sep 2026 | Sunday | Meskel |
| 2027 | 27 Sep 2027 | Monday | Meskel |
| 2028 | 27 Sep 2028 | Wednesday | Meskel |
| 2029 | 27 Sep 2029 | Thursday | Meskel |
| 2030 | 27 Sep 2030 | Friday | Meskel |
| 2031 | 27 Sep 2031 | Saturday | Meskel |
27 Sep 2023
Wednesday · Meskel
27 Sep 2024
Friday · Meskel
27 Sep 2025
Saturday · Meskel
27 Sep 2026
Sunday · Meskel
27 Sep 2027
Monday · Meskel
27 Sep 2028
Wednesday · Meskel
27 Sep 2029
Thursday · Meskel
27 Sep 2030
Friday · Meskel
27 Sep 2031
Saturday · Meskel
