2024 Public Holidays in Zambia
Public Holidays in Zambia 2024
Zambia celebrates various public holidays throughout the year, each with its own cultural, historical, or religious significance. These holidays provide opportunities for Zambians to come together, celebrate their heritage, and reflect on their national identity. Here is a comprehensive list and description of public holidays in Zambia for the year 2024.
National Public Holidays
New Year’s Day – January 1st
Description: New Year’s Day in Zambia marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is celebrated with parties, family gatherings, and community events across the country. Zambians often make resolutions for the new year and participate in festive activities to welcome the arrival of January 1st.
Good Friday – April 5th
Description: Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed with solemn religious services, processions, and acts of devotion in Zambia. Many Zambians attend church services and participate in rituals that reflect on the sacrifice of Christ and the meaning of his death.
Easter Monday – April 8th
Description: Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday and is part of the Easter holiday period. In Zambia, it is a public holiday marked by various activities, including family gatherings, picnics, and sports events. Easter Monday is a time for relaxation and leisure activities following the religious observances of Easter weekend.
Labour Day – May 1st
Description: Labour Day is a global celebration of the achievements and contributions of workers. In Zambia, it is a public holiday marked by rallies, marches, and events organized by trade unions and workers’ organizations. Labour Day provides an opportunity to advocate for workers’ rights and social justice.
Africa Freedom Day – May 25th
Description: Africa Freedom Day, also known as Africa Day, commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963. It celebrates the liberation and unity of the African continent. In Zambia, Africa Freedom Day is observed with patriotic ceremonies, cultural performances, and educational programs highlighting African history and heritage.
Heroes Day – July 4th
Description: Heroes Day in Zambia honors the bravery and sacrifices of national heroes and heroines who played significant roles in the country’s history. It is a day to remember and pay tribute to leaders, freedom fighters, and other individuals who contributed to Zambia’s independence and development. Heroes Day may be marked by ceremonies, speeches, and the laying of wreaths at monuments and memorials.
Unity Day – July 6th
Description: Unity Day in Zambia celebrates the country’s diversity and promotes national unity and reconciliation. It commemorates the signing of the Choma Declaration on July 6, 1972, which affirmed Zambia’s commitment to non-racialism and unity in diversity. Unity Day is observed with cultural performances, community events, and initiatives that promote harmony and understanding among Zambians.
Independence Day – October 24th
Description: Independence Day in Zambia commemorates the country’s independence from British colonial rule on October 24, 1964. It is one of the most important national holidays in Zambia, celebrated with patriotic fervor and pride. Independence Day is marked by flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and festive events across the country.
Christmas Day – December 25th
Description: Christmas Day in Zambia celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is observed with religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Zambians decorate their homes and churches with Christmas decorations, lights, and nativity scenes. Christmas Day is a time for giving gifts, sharing meals with loved ones, and spreading joy and goodwill.
Boxing Day – December 26th
Description: Boxing Day is traditionally observed as a day for giving gifts to service workers and those in need. In Zambia, it is a public holiday marked by relaxation, leisure activities, and sports events. Many people spend Boxing Day with family and friends, enjoying outdoor activities or attending community events.
Table: Public Holidays and Days Off in Zambia 2024
Public Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups of People |
New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General population |
Good Friday | April 5 | 1 day | Christian community |
Easter Monday | April 8 | 1 day | General population |
Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | Workers, General population |
Africa Freedom Day | May 25 | 1 day | General population |
Heroes Day | July 4 | 1 day | General population |
Unity Day | July 6 | 1 day | General population |
Independence Day | October 24 | 1 day | General population |
Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | Christian community |
Boxing Day | December 26 | 1 day | General population |