Public Holidays in Zimbabwe
Summary:
This article presents a list of Zimbabwe's major public holidays that reflect the nation's
historical, cultural, and social identity.
Zimbabwe boasts a rich history and culture, and its public holidays reflect the nation's historical,
cultural, and social characteristics. Here's a list of Zimbabwe's major public holidays along with
brief introductions:
New Year's Day (January 1)
New Year's Day is a globally celebrated holiday, and Zimbabwe is no exception. On this day,
people
commemorate the arrival of a new year, expressing their hop
es for a prosperous future.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day (February 21)
This holiday marks the birthday of Zimbabwe's former President, Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Mugabe led Zimbabwe's independence from colonial rule and played a significant role in the country's political landscape.
Good Friday (Varies each year)
Good Friday is an important Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Zimbabwe, many Christians attend church services and reflect on Jesus' sacrifice.
Easter (Varies each year)
Easter is the most significant Christian holiday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Zimbabwe, Easter is an important family gathering occasion, where people exchange gifts and enjoy festive meals.
Easter Monday (Varies each year)
Easter Monday is an extension of Easter and is an official public holiday in Zimbabwe.
Independence Day (April 18)
Independence Day is Zimbabwe's most important national holiday, commemorating the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1980. On this day, grand celebrations are held across the nation, including parades, cultural performances, and fireworks displays.
Africa Liberation Day (May 25)
Africa Liberation Day is observed to commemorate the African continent's liberation from colonial rule. In Zimbabwe, people organize various events to promote African culture and advocate for African unity.
Heroes Day (August 10)
Heroes Day honors the heroes who sacrificed their lives during Zimbabwe's war of independence. On this day, people pay tribute to the heroes' deeds and express their desire for peace.
Defense Forces Day (August 11)
Defense Forces Day recognizes the Zimbabwe National Army's contributions to safeguarding national security. On this day, the army conducts parades and other military displays.
Unity Day (December 22)
Unity Day commemorates Zimbabwe's achievement of national unity in 1980. On this day, people emphasize the importance of national unity and promote harmonious coexistence among different ethnic groups.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas is a significant Christian holiday marking the birth of Jesus Christ. In Zimbabwe, many Christians attend church services and spend time with family and friends during the festive season.
Boxing Day (December 26)
Boxing Day is an extension of Christmas and is an official public holiday in Zimbabwe.
In addition to the public holidays listed above, Zimbabwe also observes other important holidays
and
anniversaries, such as:
Father's Day
Mother's Day
International Labor Day
International Women's Day
Children's Day
Special Public Holidays
National Holidays
Independence Day: Celebrated on April 18th, Zimbabwe's Independence Day commemorates the country's liberation from British colonial rule in 1980. The day is marked by nationwide festivities, including parades, concerts, and fireworks displays.
Heroes' Day: Observed on the second Monday of August each year, Heroes' Day honors Zimbabweans who contributed to the country's independence and liberation.
Traditional Holidays
Bhimba Festival: A traditional Shona festival, Bhimba is usually celebrated
during the harvest season. It's a time for singing, dancing, and expressing gratitude for a
bountiful harvest.
Mbende Festival: Another Shona tradition, the Mbende Festival is renowned
for its unique dance and music forms.
Holidays of various freight companies[General Guidelines]
Shipping Companies:
During most major public holidays, shipping companies will be closed or operate with reduced
hours.
Some shipping companies may offer limited services on certain holidays, such as Christmas and
New Year's Day.
It is recommended to contact your shipping company directly to inquire about their specific
holiday arrangements.
Airlines:
Airlines typically operate during most public holidays, but there may be some flight
cancellations or delays.
It is recommended to book your tickets in advance and check the airline's website or contact the
airline for their specific flight schedule.
Freight Forwarders:
Many freight forwarders will be closed or operate with reduced hours during most major public
holidays.
Some freight forwarders may offer limited services on certain holidays, such as Christmas and
New Year's Day.
It is recommended to contact your freight forwarder directly to inquire about their specific
holiday arrangements.
Railways:
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) typically operates during most public holidays, but
there may be some train cancellations or delays.
It is recommended to book your tickets in advance and check the NRZ's website or contact the NRZ
for their specific train schedule.
Courier Companies:
Many courier companies will be closed or operate with reduced hours during most major public
holidays.
Some courier companies may offer limited services on certain holidays, such as Christmas and New
Year's Day.
It is recommended to contact your courier company directly to inquire about their specific
holiday arrangements.
Logistics Companies:
Holiday arrangements for logistics companies may vary depending on the company.
Some logistics companies will be closed or operate with reduced hours during most major public
holidays.
Some logistics companies may offer limited services on certain holidays, such as Christmas and
New Year's Day.
It is recommended to contact your logistics company directly to inquire about their specific
holiday arrangements.
Public holidays in Zimbabwe for the year 2025
Date | Day | Holiday |
January 1 | Wednesday | New Year's Day |
February 21 | Friday | Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day |
April 18 | Friday | Good Friday and Independence Day |
April 19 | Saturday | Holy Saturday |
April 20 | Sunday | Easter Sunday |
April 21 | Monday | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wednesday | Worker's Day |
May 25 | Saturday | Africa Day |
August 11 | Monday | Heroes' Day |
August 12 | Tuesday | Defence Forces Day |
December 22 | Monday | Unity Day |
December 25 | Wednesday | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thursday | St. Stephen's Day |