Botswana

Botswana : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Botswana

Botswana observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its cultural heritage, historical milestones, and religious traditions. These holidays are marked by official ceremonies, community events, and family gatherings. Many holidays commemorate national pride, religious observances, and labor contributions.

• New Year's Day
  Celebrated on January 1st, this holiday marks the beginning of the new year. It is a day of relaxation and celebration with family and friends, often featuring parties and social gatherings.

• New Year's Day Holiday
  An additional day off adjacent to New Year's Day to extend the celebration period, allowing more time for rest and social activities.

• Good Friday
  Observed during the Christian Holy Week on the Friday before Easter Sunday, this day commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is marked by church services and reflection.

• Holy Saturday
  The day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, observed with religious services and quiet contemplation in Christian communities.

• Easter Monday
  The day after Easter Sunday, celebrated with family outings and continued festivities marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• Labour Day
  Observed on May 1st, Labour Day honors the contributions of workers and promotes workers' rights. Parades, speeches, and community events are common.

• Ascension Day
  Celebrated 40 days after Easter Sunday, this Christian holiday marks the ascension of Jesus to heaven. Church services are held, and it may be a public holiday.

• Sir Seretse Khama Day
  Observed in July, this day honors Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana's first president and a key figure in the country's independence. The day includes official ceremonies and remembering his legacy.

• President's Day
  A holiday recognizing the office of the president and national leadership. It often includes political speeches and civic celebrations.

• President's Day Holiday
  Additional day off following President's Day to allow extended observance.

• Botswana Day
  Celebrated on September 30th, Botswana Day marks the country's independence from British rule in 1966. Festivities include parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays.

• Botswana Day Holiday
  An extra day off to extend Botswana Day celebrations.

• Christmas Day
  Celebrated on December 25th, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ with church services, gift-giving, family meals, and festive decorations.

• Boxing Day
  Observed on December 26th, Boxing Day is traditionally a day for giving to the less fortunate and relaxing after Christmas. It is also a time for sports and social activities.

• Boxing Day Holiday
  Additional observance extending the Boxing Day holiday to allow for more rest and celebration.

• Labour Day Holiday
  An extra day off alongside Labour Day festivities for extended recognition of workers.

• Boxing Day (observed)
  If Boxing Day falls on a weekend, this observed holiday provides a weekday off to compensate.

Site officiel de référence

• Government of Botswana - Public Holidays