South Africa Holidays & National Days 2026
Here is every national day, public holiday and special observance connected with South Africa on National Day Review — sorted by date for 2026, with a live countdown to the next one. Open any day to read its history, traditions, facts, wishes and messages.
Coming Up Next
Day of Reconciliation (South Africa)
South Africa’s Day of Reconciliation on December 16 promotes unity after apartheid. The two histories of the date, Mandela, the TRC, traditions…
Christmas Day
Christmas Day on December 25 celebrates the birth of Jesus. Why December 25, history timeline, symbols, food around the world, Christmas in…
Boxing Day
Boxing Day on December 26 is a holiday in the UK, Canada, Australia and more. Origins of the name, traditions, sports, sales…
New Year's Day
Our comprehensive article is well decorated with happy new year wishes for your girlfriend. So, if you desire to wish your girlfriend…
Heritage Day (South Africa)
Heritage Day is celebrated because South Africa is known as the "Rainbow Nation" for its colour and variety.
South Africa Holidays & National Days in 2026 — Month by Month
January 1
| Date | Day | Observance | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year's Day | Next: January 1, 2027 |
September 1
| Date | Day | Observance | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 24 | Thursday | Heritage Day (South Africa) | Next: September 24, 2027 |
December 3
| Date | Day | Observance | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 16 | Wednesday | Day of Reconciliation (South Africa) | in 33 days |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | in 42 days |
| December 26 | Saturday | Boxing Day | in 43 days |