ALL the remaining public holidays in South Africa in 2026

South Africans have just five public holidays still to look forward to in 2026, including an additional weekday holiday for the upcoming Local Government Elections.

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The country has 14 public holidays on the official 2026 calendar.

However, two of those holidays fell – or will fall – on Saturdays and therefore do not provide workers with a day off work.

Human Rights Day fell on Saturday, 21 March, while the Day of Goodwill will fall on Saturday, 26 December.

Here are all the remaining public holidays for 2026

Heritage Day – Thursday, 24 September

The next public holiday is Heritage Day on Thursday, 24 September.

The day is widely celebrated as an opportunity to recognise South Africa’s diverse cultures, traditions and heritage.

Workers who take Friday, 25 September as annual leave can enjoy a four-day break from Thursday through Sunday.

For many South Africans, Heritage Day is also synonymous with a traditional braai, making it a popular opportunity for family gatherings and short getaways.

Local Government Elections – Wednesday, 4 November

South Africans will head to the polls for the Local Government Elections on Wednesday, 4 November.

Election day will be a public holiday, giving eligible voters the opportunity to cast their ballots.

The additional weekday holiday also provides workers with another opportunity to enjoy a break during the year.

Day of Reconciliation – Wednesday, 16 December

The next public holiday will be Day of Reconciliation on Wednesday, 16 December.

The holiday has been observed since 1995 and aims to promote reconciliation and national unity.

It is also traditionally associated with the annual Day of the Vow/Dingaan’s Day date, reflecting the evolution of South Africa’s public holiday calendar.

Christmas Day – Friday, 25 December

Christmas Day falls on Friday, 25 December, creating a natural three-day long weekend.

For employees who are able to take additional leave around the festive season, this could form part of a longer break extending into the New Year.

Day of Goodwill – Saturday, 26 December

The final public holiday of 2026 will be Day of Goodwill on Saturday, 26 December.

Unfortunately for employees working Monday to Friday, the holiday falls on a Saturday and therefore does not create an additional weekday off.

The remaining public holidays for 2026 are:

DateDayPublic holiday24 SeptemberThursdayHeritage Day4 NovemberWednesdayLocal Government Elections16 DecemberWednesdayDay of Reconciliation25 DecemberFridayChristmas Day26 DecemberSaturdayDay of Goodwill

Which is your favourite public holiday of the year?

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