Public Holidays in Zambia 2025
Zambia observes a number of public holidays each year that reflect its Christian heritage, national history, and Pan-African solidarity. Some holidays falling on Sundays are observed the following Monday. (Wikipedia – Public Holidays in Zambia)
Overview of Public Holidays in Zambia
In Zambia, public holidays include fixed dates (e.g. New Year’s Day, Independence Day) and movable Christian observances (especially during Easter weekend). According to the national laws, if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the next Monday is observed as the holiday. (Wikipedia)
List of Public Holidays in Zambia (2025)
| Date | Day (2025) | Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day |
| March 8 | Saturday | International Women’s Day |
| March 12 | Wednesday | Youth Day |
| April 18 | Friday | Good Friday |
| April 19 | Saturday | Holy Saturday |
| April 20 | Sunday | Easter Sunday |
| April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday |
| April 28 | Monday | Kenneth Kaunda Day (Birthday) |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day |
| May 25 | Sunday | Africa Freedom Day |
| May 26 | Monday | Day Off for Africa Freedom Day |
| July 7 | Monday | Heroes’ Day |
| July 8 | Tuesday | Unity Day |
| August 4 | Monday | Farmers’ Day |
| October 18 | Saturday | National Day of Prayer |
| October 24 | Friday | Independence Day |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Zambia’s holidays include Christian observances (Good Friday, Easter) and national days of remembrance and identity (Heroes’ Day, Unity Day, Independence). Kenneth Kaunda Day honors the founding President’s legacy. Africa Freedom Day (also called Africa Day) affirms Pan-African unity. (OfficeHolidays – Zambia 2025)
Public Observances and Closures
On public holidays, government offices, schools, banks, and many businesses close. When a holiday falls on Sunday, the following Monday is observed instead. (Wikipedia) Easter weekend is often observed fully (Good Friday through Easter Monday). (qppstudio – Zambia Holidays 2025)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Zambia have?
Zambia officially has about 14 national public holidays. (OfficeHolidays – Zambia 2025)
What happens when a holiday falls on Sunday?
By law, if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the next Monday is observed as the holiday. (Wikipedia)
Conclusion
Zambia’s public holidays reflect both religious traditions and its national identity, celebrating its independence, leaders, and shared history. From Easter observances to national commemorations, these days offer time for reflection and celebration.
