Lesotho

Lesotho : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Lesotho

Lesotho celebrates several public holidays reflecting its rich history, culture, and religious traditions. These days are marked by various ceremonies, cultural events, and moments of reflection, often accompanied by community gatherings and official observances.

• New Year's Day

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the beginning of the new year. It is a global celebration symbolizing fresh starts and new opportunities.
  • Date & Observance: January 1st. It is a public holiday with government offices and many businesses closed.

• Moshoeshoe's Day

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation, recognized for uniting various clans.
  • Date & Observance: March 11th. Marked by cultural events, speeches, and commemorations of heritage and unity.

• Good Friday

  • Origin & Significance: A Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.
  • Date & Observance: Celebrated on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It is a solemn day observed with church services and reflection.

• Easter Monday

  • Origin & Significance: The day after Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  • Date & Observance: Monday following Easter Sunday. It is a public holiday spent with family gatherings and church activities.

• Workers' Day

  • Origin & Significance: Also known as Labour Day, it recognizes the contributions of workers and promotes labor rights.
  • Date & Observance: May 1st. Often marked by parades, speeches, and labor union events.

• Africa/Heroes Day

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates African heroes and historical figures who contributed to liberation and development.
  • Date & Observance: Traditionally observed on the 17th of September with ceremonies and reflections on African heritage and struggles.

• Ascension Day

  • Origin & Significance: A Christian holiday commemorating the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven.
  • Date & Observance: Observed 40 days after Easter Sunday. It involves church services and is a public holiday.

• King's Birthday

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the birthday of the reigning monarch of Lesotho, currently King Letsie III.
  • Date & Observance: Usually celebrated on July 17th with official ceremonies, cultural performances, and national pride events.

• Independence Day

  • Origin & Significance: Marks Lesotho's independence from British colonial rule.
  • Date & Observance: October 4th. It involves national celebrations, parades, speeches, and cultural displays.

• Christmas Day

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a major Christian holiday.
  • Date & Observance: December 25th. Traditions include church services, family meals, and gift-giving.

• Boxing Day

  • Origin & Significance: A holiday traditionally celebrated in Commonwealth countries the day after Christmas.
  • Date & Observance: December 26th. It is often a day for relaxation, sports, and spending time with family.

Site officiel de référence

• Government of Lesotho Official Website