Summer 2027

December Holidays 2027

Your Complete Guide to the South African Summer Break

Holiday Starts

11 December 2027

Holiday Ends

12 January 2028

Total Days

33 days

The December 2027 holidays mark the end of the school year and the beginning of the festive season. This five-week summer break is the perfect time for family holidays, with warm weather and several public holidays.

School Calendar Context

Term 4 ends

10 December 2027

Next term starts

13 January 2028

Public Holidays During This Period

Day of Reconciliation

16 December 2027

Details

Christmas Day

25 December 2027

Details

Day of Goodwill

26 December 2027

Details

Observed: 27 December 2027

New Year's Day

1 January 2028

Details

Key Dates

Term 4 ends on 10 December 2027. Note that Day of Goodwill falls on a Sunday and will be observed on Monday 27 December. Term 1 of 2028 begins on 13 January.

Travel Tips

  • Plan and book by September for best availability
  • Alternative destinations like the Wild Coast offer value
  • Consider road trip routes avoiding major highways
  • Air travel prices peak from 15 December - fly early or late

Things To Do

  • Summer festivals and concerts across major cities
  • Beach holidays - peak swimming and surfing season
  • Outdoor adventure activities in cooler mountain areas
  • Cricket matches and sports events
  • End-of-year celebrations and fireworks

Budget Tips

  • Last-minute deals emerge after 26 December
  • Consider camping for affordable family holidays
  • Share accommodation costs with extended family
  • Cook at home using holiday markets and farm stalls

Other 2027 Guides