---
source: South African Government (gov.za)
url: https://www.gov.za/about-sa/public-holidays
document_type: html
date_retrieved: 2026-04-27
period: 2026
parent_publication: Public Holidays in South Africa
indicators_covered: [Freedom Day]
---

# Public holidays in South Africa — 2026

South Africa has 12 public holidays as determined by the Public Holidays Act (Act No 36 of 1994).

## 2026

1 January: New Year's Day  
21 March: Human Rights Day  
3 April: Good Friday  
6 April: Family Day  
**27 April: Freedom Day**  
1 May: Workers' Day  
16 June: Youth Day  
9 August: National Women's Day  
10 August: Public holiday National Women's Day observed  
24 September: Heritage Day  
16 December: Day of Reconciliation  
25 December: Christmas Day  
26 December: Day of Goodwill

### 27 April [Freedom Day]

Freedom Day commemorates the first democratic elections held in South Africa on 27 April 1994.