South Africa Public Holidays 2026
Official calendar of holidays and observances
Quick Facts
Official Holiday Calendar
New Year's Day
First day of the calendar year
Human Rights Day
Commemorates the Sharpeville massacre of 1960 and the establishment of the SAHRC
Good Friday
Christian commemoration of the crucifixion
Family Day
Day for family gatherings
Van Riebeeck's Day
Commemorated the arrival of Jan van Riebeeck at the Cape
Freedom Day
Commemoration of 1979 coup d'état
Workers' Day
International Workers' Day
Ascension Day
Christian feast celebrating the ascension of Jesus
General Elections
Public Holiday for 2024 General Elections
Union Day
Unification of Tanganyika and Zanzibar
Youth Day
Celebration of Cameroon's youth
National Women's Day
Commemorates the 1956 march of women against pass laws
Settlers' Day
Commemorated the arrival of the 1820 British Settlers
Heritage Day
Celebrates South African cultural heritage
Kruger Day
Commemorated the birth of Paul Kruger
Rugby World Cup Victory Holiday
Celebration of South Africa's fourth Rugby World Cup victory
Day of Reconciliation
Promotes reconciliation and national unity
Christmas Day
Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus
Day of Goodwill
Day of giving and sharing with those less fortunate
Discover South Africa's Rich Holiday Heritage
Your guide to African celebrations — from ancient traditions to modern observances.
Historical Timeline
Track celebrations from pre-colonial times to modern day.
Smart Filtering
Find holidays by type, features, and cultural significance.
Regional Insights
Compare celebrations across different African nations.
Calendar Integration
Track both solar and lunar calendar celebrations.