Public Holidays 2026

South Africa has 12 official public holidays in 2026 under the Public Holidays Act (Act 36 of 1994). All employees are entitled to these days off with full pay. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as the public holiday.

New Year's Day

01 Jan 2026

Day:Thursday

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Human Rights Day

21 Mar 2026

Day:Saturday

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Good Friday

03 Apr 2026

Day:Friday

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Family Day

06 Apr 2026

Day:Monday

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Freedom Day

27 Apr 2026

Day:Monday

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Workers' Day

01 May 2026

Day:Friday

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Youth Day

16 Jun 2026

Day:Tuesday

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National Women's Day

09 Aug 2026

Day:Sunday

Observed: 10 Aug

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Heritage Day

24 Sept 2026

Day:Thursday

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Christmas Day

25 Dec 2026

Day:Friday

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Day of Goodwill

26 Dec 2026

Day:Saturday

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Frequently Asked Questions

Data sourced from the South African Government (Public Holidays Act)

If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed