Ecuador entered April with the Easter holiday already underway, and attention is now turning to another extended break tied to Labor Day at the end of the month.
This year, a presidential decree has created a longer holiday period around May 1. Thursday, April 30, has been added to the official Labor Day holiday on Friday, May 1, resulting in a four-day break from April 30 through May 3.
The month began with the Easter holiday, which included Good Friday on April 3. Under national law, this day is a mandatory day of rest, forming a three-day holiday from April 3 to April 5, 2026.
In addition to these nationwide holidays, several provinces and cities observe local celebrations throughout April, many of which have been moved to create long weekends.
Local holidays include:
- April 1
Cotopaxi Provincialization, moved to Thursday, April 2 - April 12
Foundation of Cuenca, moved to Monday, April 13 - April 14
Cantonization of La Libertad, moved to Monday, April 13 - April 16
Cantonization of Azogues, moved to Friday, April 17 - April 21
Foundation of Riobamba, moved to Monday, April 20 - April 23
Provincialization of El Oro, moved to Friday, April 24 - April 30
Cantonization of Francisco de Orellana (El Coca), moved to Friday, May 1
With multiple adjusted dates and long weekends built into the calendar, April and early May offer several opportunities for travel and extended time off across the country.