| Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-01-01 | New Year's Day | National |
| 2026-03-21 | Human Rights Day | National |
| 2026-04-03 | Good Friday | National |
| 2026-04-06 | Family Day | National |
| 2026-04-27 | Freedom Day | National |
| 2026-05-01 | Workers' Day | National |
| 2026-06-16 | Youth Day | National |
| 2026-08-09 | National Women's Day | National |
| 2026-08-10 | National Women's Day (observed) | Substitute |
| 2026-09-24 | Heritage Day | National |
| 2026-12-16 | Day of Reconciliation | National |
| 2026-12-25 | Christmas Day | National |
| 2026-12-26 | Day of Goodwill | National |
About these holidays in South Africa (2026)
Our South Africa public holidays guide explains the background of each holiday and how the dates are set.
New Year's Day
New Year's Day falls on 1 January and opens the Gregorian calendar year. Most countries mark it with a public holiday, and celebrations usually begin the night before with countdowns, fireworks and gatherings. The date was fixed in its current position by Julius Caesar's calendar reform, and later preserved by the Gregorian reform of 1582. traditions vary widely, from first-footing in Scotland to writing resolutions for the months ahead.
Good Friday
Good Friday is the Friday before Easter and commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. It is a public holiday in most countries with Christian traditions, and businesses, banks and schools often close. Observance is typically solemn, with church services, processions and in some places Passion plays. The date moves each year because Easter is calculated from the first full moon following the March equinox.
Youth Day
Youth Day recognises the contribution of young people to society and draws attention to issues affecting them. South Africa observes it on 16 June, commemorating the 1976 Soweto uprising, while other countries including Turkey, Morocco and Brazil mark it on their own dates. In several nations it is a public holiday. Events typically include youth conferences, cultural performances and sporting activities.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day on 25 December is the Christian feast of the Nativity of Jesus and one of the most widely observed public holidays in the world. It is a legal holiday in most nations with Christian majorities or heritage, and a cultural holiday in many others. Customs include family gatherings, gift giving, special meals and decorated trees. Countries following the Julian or Oriental Orthodox calendars often celebrate on 7 January instead.