South Africa

South Africa : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in South Africa

South Africa celebrates a variety of public holidays that reflect its rich cultural diversity, history, and values. These holidays often commemorate significant historical events, human rights, and cultural heritage, bringing communities together in observance and celebration.

• New Year's Day
  Marks the first day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. It is celebrated on January 1st with gatherings, fireworks, and festivities welcoming the new year.

• Human Rights Day
  Observed on March 21st, it honors the sacrifices made in the fight for human rights and equality, commemorating the Sharpeville massacre of 1960. It is a day for reflection on human dignity and justice.

• Good Friday
  A Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. Traditions include church services and fasting.

• Family Day
  Celebrated on the Monday following Easter Sunday, it is a day dedicated to spending quality time with family and loved ones, often with outings and meals together.

• Freedom Day
  Observed on April 27th, this day celebrates South Africa's first democratic elections held in 1994, marking the end of apartheid. It is a day of national pride with speeches, parades, and cultural events.

• Freedom Day (observed)
  When April 27th falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following Monday, allowing for a long weekend.

• Workers' Day
  Celebrated on May 1st, this day honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. It often includes rallies, marches, and public speeches on workers' rights.

• Youth Day
  On June 16th, Youth Day commemorates the Soweto Uprising of 1976, when students protested against apartheid education policies. It is observed with educational events and youth empowerment activities.

• National Women's Day
  August 9th marks this day, celebrating the role of women in society and commemorating the 1956 women's march against pass laws. It includes community events and programs focused on women's rights.

• National Women's Day (observed)
  When August 9th falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following Monday.

• Heritage Day
  Celebrated on September 24th, Heritage Day encourages South Africans to celebrate their diverse cultural heritage with festivals, traditional foods, and cultural performances.

• Day of Reconciliation
  Observed on December 16th, it is a day focused on reconciliation and unity in post-apartheid South Africa. Various cultural and religious events take place to promote national healing.

• Christmas Day
  Celebrated on December 25th, Christmas Day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is marked by church services, family gatherings, and festive meals.

• Day of Goodwill
  Observed on December 26th, this day encourages acts of kindness and generosity, often spent volunteering or helping those in need.

• Day of Goodwill (observed)
  When December 26th falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following Monday.

Site officiel de référence

• South African Government – Public Holidays