Tanzania

Tanzania : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Tanzania

Tanzania celebrates a variety of public holidays that reflect its rich cultural heritage, religious traditions, and significant historical events. These holidays are observed nationwide with various customs, ceremonies, and festivities, marking important moments in the country's history, religion, and society.

• New Year's Day
  Observed on January 1st, this day marks the beginning of the new year. It is typically celebrated with family gatherings and public festivities across Tanzania.

• Zanzibar Revolution Day
  Celebrated on January 12th, this holiday commemorates the 1964 revolution in Zanzibar, which led to the overthrow of the Sultan of Zanzibar and the establishment of a new government. It is marked by political events and celebrations particularly in Zanzibar.

• Eid al-Fitr (estimated)
  This marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The date varies each year according to the lunar calendar. It is celebrated with communal prayers, feasting, and giving of charity.

• The Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume Day
  Observed on April 7th, it honors the first President of Zanzibar and the union hero, Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume. Celebrations include speeches and events reflecting his legacy.

• Good Friday
  A Christian holiday observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is a day of mourning and reflection. Attended with church services.

• Easter Monday
  The day after Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is marked by church services, family outings, and public holidays.

• Union Celebrations
  Celebrated on April 26th, this day marks the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar into the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964. It is observed with patriotic events and celebrations nationwide.

• Worker's Day
  Held on May 1st, this international labor day celebrates workers and their contributions. It is observed with rallies, parades, and public events promoting labor rights.

• Eid al-Adha (estimated)
  Also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, this Islamic holiday is observed approximately 70 days after Eid al-Fitr. It commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son. Celebrations include prayers, feasts, and animal sacrifices.

• International Trade Fair
  Celebrated annually, this event highlights Tanzania's commercial and industrial progress. It includes exhibitions, business meetings, and trade promotions.

• Peasants Day
  Recognized on June 8th, this day honors the contributions of farmers and rural workers to Tanzania’s economy. It is celebrated with agricultural shows and public acknowledgments.

• Prophet's Birthday (estimated)
  Known as Mawlid al-Nabi, this holiday celebrates the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The date changes yearly according to the Islamic calendar and is marked by prayers, sermons, and communal meals.

• The Mwalimu Nyerere Day
  Celebrated on October 14th, this day honors Julius Nyerere, Tanzania's founding father. Events reflect on his leadership and legacy, with educational and cultural activities.

• Independence and Republic Day
  Observed on December 9th, this day marks Tanganyika’s independence from British rule in 1961 and the establishment of the republic in 1962. It is celebrated with patriotic displays, speeches, and national pride.

• Christmas Day
  Celebrated on December 25th by Christians across Tanzania, this holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Traditions include church services, feasting, and family gatherings.

• Boxing Day
  Observed on December 26th, this day follows Christmas and is traditionally a time to give gifts to the less fortunate. It is a public holiday featuring relaxation and social visits.

Official Reference Site

• Tanzania Government Portal - Holidays