Harvest Festival 2026, 2027
Harvest Festival, also known as Pesta Kaamatan in Sabah and Gawai Dayak in Sarawak, is a major cultural celebration that marks the end of the rice harvesting season. Observed primarily in East Malaysia, the festival gives thanks for a successful harvest and honours the close relationship between the land, community, and traditional way of life.
Harvest Festival is observed as a public holiday in several Malaysian states, including W.P. Labuan, Sabah.
In 2026, Harvest Festival falls on 30 May, Saturday, while in 2027 it falls on 30 May, Sunday.
Current and Upcoming Years
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States | Type | Long Weekend | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 30 May | Sat | Harvest Festival | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2026 | 31 May | Sun | Harvest Festival Day-2 | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2026 | 1 Jun | Mon | Harvest Festival Holiday | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | Yes |
| 2027 | 30 May | Sun | Harvest Festival | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2027 | 31 May | Mon | Harvest Festival Day-2 | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2027 | 1 Jun | Tue | Harvest Festival Holiday | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | Yes |
Previous Years
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States | Type | Long Weekend | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 30 May | Thu | Harvest Festival | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2024 | 31 May | Fri | Harvest Festival Holiday | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2025 | 30 May | Fri | Harvest Festival | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
| 2025 | 31 May | Sat | Harvest Festival Holiday | W.P. Labuan, Sabah | State | Yes | - |
In 2026, Harvest Festival is celebrated around late May and early June, with official public holidays observed on specific dates depending on the state. While the celebrations share a common theme of gratitude and renewal, each region marks the festival with its own customs, rituals, and traditions.
Is Harvest Festival a Public Holiday in Malaysia?
Yes — Harvest Festival is recognised as a public holiday in Sabah and Sarawak.
In Sabah, Harvest Festival (Pesta Kaamatan) is officially observed on 30 and 31 May.
In Sarawak, the celebration is known as Gawai Dayak and is observed on 1 and 2 June.
On these days, government offices, schools, and many businesses in the respective states are closed. In other parts of Malaysia, Harvest Festival is not a public holiday and is treated as a normal working day.
Because observance differs by state, it is advisable to check state-specific public holiday calendars for 2026 when planning work, school schedules, or travel to East Malaysia.
The Meaning and Significance of Harvest Festival
Harvest Festival is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak. Historically, the festival was held to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and to seek blessings for the next planting season.
Beyond agriculture, the festival symbolises unity, gratitude, and cultural identity. It reinforces respect for nature, community cooperation, and the preservation of ancestral customs that have been passed down through generations.
Although modern lifestyles have changed farming practices, Harvest Festival remains an important reminder of the cultural heritage and values that continue to shape life in East Malaysia.
How Harvest Festival Is Celebrated
In Sabah, Pesta Kaamatan is associated with the Kadazan-Dusun community and features traditional rituals, cultural performances, and the crowning of the Unduk Ngadau, a beauty pageant that symbolises grace, wisdom, and cultural pride.
In Sarawak, Gawai Dayak is celebrated by the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu communities. Festivities often begin on the eve of Gawai with traditional ceremonies, followed by open houses, music, dances, and communal feasts.
Across both states, traditional attire, indigenous music, and local cuisine play a central role in the celebrations. Visitors are often welcomed to join in the festivities, reflecting the strong spirit of hospitality and cultural sharing.
Work Arrangements and Public Holiday Practices
When Harvest Festival falls on a weekday, the holiday is observed on the gazetted dates in Sabah and Sarawak. If it coincides with a weekend, replacement holiday arrangements depend on official state guidelines.
Essential services, retail outlets, and hospitality businesses—especially those serving tourists—may continue operating, particularly in urban areas. Employees working during the public holiday are subject to applicable labour regulations and employer policies.
Why Harvest Festival Matters for Planning
Harvest Festival can significantly affect travel demand, accommodation availability, and public services in Sabah and Sarawak. It is one of the busiest festive periods in East Malaysia, with many people returning to their hometowns to celebrate with family.
Knowing the Harvest Festival dates for 2026 helps individuals and businesses plan travel, events, and work schedules more effectively—especially for those visiting or operating in East Malaysia during this period.
For the most accurate information, it is recommended to refer to official public holiday listings and state gazettes for 2026 and Public Holidays Malaysia for 2026, or refer to the School Holidays Malaysia for 2026, as details are confirmed by state authorities each year.