Celebrate December 16-17 with Bahrain! Fireworks, parades, concerts, and nationwide festivities marking independence and national pride.
Last updated: 2026-02-24 • December 16-17 annually
Independence Day - commemorates independence from Britain in 1971
Accession Day - anniversary of late Amir Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa's accession
National colors displayed everywhere - flags, decorations, clothing
Major firework displays across the country, especially at night
Military and cultural parades celebrating national pride
Official ceremonies and royal family appearances
Where to celebrate National Day.
Bahrain Bay • Major Venue
Central celebrations with fireworks, concerts, food stalls, and family entertainment along the waterfront.
Manama Corniche • Public Event
Traditional celebrations along the corniche with parades, performances, and cultural activities.
City Centre, Seef Mall, Avenues • Family Entertainment
Special events, decorations, performances, and sales at major shopping malls.
Muharraq • Cultural
Traditional celebrations in historic Muharraq celebrating Bahraini heritage and culture.
Major hotels • Dining & Entertainment
Special brunches, dinners, and rooftop parties at hotels with firework views.
Bahrain Bay, hotels, beaches
💡 Arrive early for good spots
Bahrain Bay, various venues
💡 Check lineup in advance
Muharraq, Bahrain Fort
💡 Special programs during holiday
Malls, theme parks
💡 Extended hours during holiday
Beach clubs, islands
💡 Book early - popular time
Main roads
💡 Evening on the 16th especially
December 16-17 are public holidays. Most businesses closed, tourist areas busy.
Very heavy traffic, especially evening of 16th. Use taxis or arrive early.
Wear red and white to join the celebrations! Available everywhere before.
Best viewed from Bahrain Bay, hotel rooftops, or beachfront. Start after sunset.
Hotel events, restaurants book up. Reserve 1-2 weeks in advance.
Patriotic time - be respectful of flag, anthem, and celebrations.
December 16-17 every year. December 16 commemorates independence (1971), December 17 marks the late Amir's accession.
Yes, both December 16 and 17 are official public holidays in Bahrain.
Bahrain Bay has the main display. Hotels with bay views offer great vantage points. Beach clubs also have good views.