Public holidays in South Africa 2026
Next: Day of Reconciliation, Wednesday, December 16, 2026 (in 48 days)
When a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the Monday after it is a public holiday. Current time in South Africa →
| Date | Holiday | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Jan 1 | New Year's Day | Passed | |
| Sat, Mar 21 | Human Rights Day | Passed | |
| Fri, Apr 3 | Good Friday | Passed | |
| Mon, Apr 6 | Family Day | Passed | |
| Mon, Apr 27 | Freedom Day | Passed | |
| Fri, May 1 | Workers' Day | Passed | |
| Tue, Jun 16 | Youth Day | Passed | |
| Sun, Aug 9 | National Women's Day | Passed | |
| Mon, Aug 10 | National Women's Day (observed) | Passed | |
| Thu, Sep 24 | Heritage Day | Passed | |
| Wed, Dec 16 | Day of Reconciliation | in 48 days | |
| Fri, Dec 25 | Christmas Day | in 57 days | |
| Sat, Dec 26 | Day of Goodwill | in 58 days |
Always check official announcements before making plans; governments sometimes move or add holidays.
Questions
What is the next public holiday in South Africa?
The next public holiday in South Africa is Day of Reconciliation on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, in 48 days.
How many public holidays does South Africa have in 2026?
This list has 12 public holidays in South Africa for 2026. When a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the Monday after it is a public holiday.
Is Christmas a public holiday in South Africa?
Yes. Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 2026, is a public holiday in South Africa.