Public Holiday News: What’s Coming Up Across Africa?

If you’ve ever missed an important day because the calendar was fuzzy, you’re not alone. Public holidays can change a lot of plans – from catching a flight to closing a shop. This page pulls together the most recent announcements so you always know when to celebrate or pause.

Key Dates You Should Mark

South Africa just confirmed that Freedom Day will be on 27 April, as usual, but this year it lines up with a long weekend if you take Friday off. In Kenya, Madaraka Day is set for 1 June, and the government said schools will stay closed for a full three‑day break. Nigeria’s Independence Day stays on 1 October, but there’s talk of an extra public holiday on the following Monday to boost tourism.

North Africa isn’t left out. Egypt announced a new public holiday for 6 November to honor the Revolution of 2011, while Morocco will observe a one‑day national celebration on 30 July after a royal decree. Keep these dates in mind if you’re planning cross‑border trips – borders can be busier than usual.

How Holidays Impact Work and Travel

Businesses often see a dip in activity during long holidays, but many use the downtime for maintenance or training. If you run a small shop, consider offering special deals on the day before to attract shoppers who know they’ll be home later.

Travelers love public holidays because airlines and hotels usually offer promotions. However, popular routes can fill up fast. Book at least two weeks ahead if you’re heading out during a major celebration like Ghana’s Independence Day on 6 March.

For remote workers, remember that some countries treat public holidays as paid days off even for freelancers. Check your contract or local labor law to avoid surprise deductions.

Finally, don’t forget the cultural side. Public holidays are often tied to festivals, parades, and traditional foods. Sampling a local dish on a holiday can turn an ordinary trip into a memory worth sharing.

Stay tuned to this page for any last‑minute changes or new holidays announced by African governments. A quick glance will keep you ahead of the game, whether you’re planning a vacation, scheduling work, or just want to know when to send that birthday wish.