Public Holidays in Eswatini 2025 – National & Cultural Calendar
Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) observes a variety of public holidays that reflect its Christian tradition, monarchy, cultural rites, and national sovereignty. On these days, government offices, schools, banks, and many businesses close. In some cases, when a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as a holiday under the Public Holidays Act.
Overview of Public Holidays in Eswatini
The country’s public holidays include Christian observances (Good Friday, Easter Monday), royal and cultural days (King’s Birthday, Incwala, Umhlanga Reed Dance), and national days such as Independence (Somhlolo Day). The Public Holidays Act mandates substitution for holidays falling on Sundays (and specific rules for Boxing Day).
List of Public Holidays in Eswatini (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Start of the Gregorian year. |
| Lutsangu / Buganu Ceremony Day | March 10 | Monday | Regimental ceremony (Buganu / Lutsangu) observed after Hlane ceremony. |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian commemoration of the crucifixion. |
| King’s Birthday | April 19 | Saturday | Birthday of King Mswati III. |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Christian observance following Easter Sunday. |
| National Flag Day | April 25 | Friday | Commemorates raising of the national flag when the King took the oath. |
| Labour Day (Workers’ Day) | May 1 | Thursday | International Workers’ Day. |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | Christian observance 40 days after Easter. |
| King Father’s Birthday | July 22 | Tuesday | Commemorating the late King Sobhuza II. |
| Somhlolo Day (Independence Day) | September 6 | Saturday | Marks independence from the UK in 1968. |
| Umhlanga / Reed Dance Public Holiday | September 8 | Monday | Celebrates the Reed Dance (Umhlanga) festival. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus. |
| Boxing Day / Day of Goodwill | December 26 | Friday | Second day of Christmas. If Boxing Day falls on Monday, next Tuesday observed. |
| Incwala Day (Kingship Ceremony) | December 18 (and following days) | Thursday* | Main kingship festival (Incwala) — date may shift each year. |
* The Incwala festival spans several days, culminating around the summer solstice. Exact dates vary annually.
Public Holiday Legislation & Substitution Rules
Under the Public Holidays Act, if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as the holiday. If Boxing Day falls on a Monday, the following Tuesday may also be observed.
Religious, Royal & Cultural Significance
Christian holidays such as Good Friday and Easter Monday reflect the country’s Christian-majority tradition. Royal occasions like the King’s Birthday and the King Father’s Birthday reaffirm the monarchy’s central role. Cultural events — especially Incwala (kingship ritual) and Umhlanga / Reed Dance — are among the most important national ceremonies, celebrating heritage, youth, and the monarchy.
Public Observances & Closures
On public holidays, government institutions, schools, and many private businesses close. In urban centers such as Mbabane and Manzini, public ceremonies and cultural performances are common. Traditional ceremonies like Incwala and the Reed Dance attract nationwide participation and often include extended celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Eswatini have in 2025?
Eswatini is expected to observe about 11 public holidays in 2025.
What is Incwala in Eswatini?
Incwala is the traditional kingship festival, spanning several days and culminating near the summer solstice. It is regarded as one of the most sacred national ceremonies.
Is Umhlanga / Reed Dance a public holiday?
Yes. Umhlanga (the Reed Dance) is observed as a public holiday in Eswatini, usually a day after Somhlolo Day (Independence).
Do holidays falling on Sunday get substituted?
Yes. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed. If Boxing Day falls on a Monday, the next Tuesday may be used.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Eswatini weave together faith, monarchy, cultural heritage, and national identity. From royal birthdays and national ceremonies to Christian observances and the pivotal Incwala festival, these holidays structure public life and cultural tradition across the kingdom.
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