| Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-01-01 | New Year's Day | National |
| 2026-03-08 | International Women's Day | National |
| 2026-03-09 | International Women's Day (observed) | Substitute |
| 2026-03-12 | Youth Day | National |
| 2026-04-03 | Good Friday | National |
| 2026-04-04 | Holy Saturday | National |
| 2026-04-05 | Easter Sunday | National |
| 2026-04-06 | Easter Monday | National |
| 2026-04-28 | Kenneth Kaunda Day | National |
| 2026-05-01 | Labour Day | National |
| 2026-05-25 | Africa Freedom Day | National |
| 2026-07-06 | Heroes' Day | National |
| 2026-07-07 | Unity Day | National |
| 2026-08-03 | Farmers' Day | National |
| 2026-08-13 | General Election Day | National |
| 2026-10-18 | National Prayer Day | National |
| 2026-10-19 | National Prayer Day (observed) | Substitute |
| 2026-10-24 | Independence Day | National |
| 2026-12-25 | Christmas Day | National |
About these holidays in Zambia (2026)
Our Zambia 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.
International Women's Day
International Women's Day on 8 March celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and calls attention to gender equality. It grew out of labour movement campaigns in the early twentieth century and was adopted by the United Nations in 1975. In a number of countries, especially in Eastern Europe, Central Asia and parts of Africa, it is an official public holiday, and flowers are traditionally given to women.
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.
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.
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday is the day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday, recalling the day Jesus lay in the tomb. It is a public holiday in several countries, particularly in Europe and Latin America, though in many places it is not a separate holiday because it falls on a weekend. The principal liturgy is the Easter Vigil held after nightfall, during which the Paschal candle is lit and the resurrection is first proclaimed.