Celebrating Zambia Public Holidays - An Essential Guide For Foreigners

By Jenna Jolie | Update on: Jun 30, 2023

Are you seeking an awe-inspiring adventure? Look no further than Zambia! Being a country in southern Africa, Zambia boasts an astonishing diversity of landscapes that will leave travelers breathless at every turn. 

Here comes the thundering beauty of Victoria Falls, a true African icon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where travelers will be captivated. The amiable Zambian citizens will help you explore more about this country's fascinating culture and diverse local communities. Let's keep reading the article below to explore the holidays in Zambia and see what people will do during these national days!

Zambia Public Holidays - 2024 Calendar

Jan

• New Years Day - Monday, 1 Jan

Feb

• New Years Day - Monday, 1 Jan
• International Women's Day - Monday, 1 Jan

March

• International Women's Day - Monday, 8 Mar
• Youth Day - Tuesday, 12 Mar
• March Equinox - Wednesday, 20 Mar
• Good Friday - Friday, 29 Mar
• Holy Saturday - Saturday, 30 Mar
• Easter Sunday - Sunday, 31 Mar

April

• Easter Monday - Monday, 1 April
• Kenneth Kaunda Day - Sunday, 28 April
• Day off for Kenneth Kaunda Day - Monday, 29 April

May

• Labour Day - Wednesday, 1 May
• Mother's Day - Sunday, 12 May
• Africa Freedom Day - Saturday, 25 May

June

• Father's Day - Monday, 1 Jan
• June Solstice - Thursday, 1 Jan

July

• Heroes' Day - Monday, 1 July
• Unity Day - Tuesday, 2 July

August

• Farmers' Day - Monday, 5 August

Sep

• September Equinox - Sunday, 22 September

October

• Prayer Day - Friday, 18 Oct
• Independence Day - Thursday, 24 Oct

December

• December Solstice - Saturday, 21 December
• Christmas Day - Wednesday, 25 December

Top 7 Famous Holidays in Zambia

1. New Year's Day - January 1st

New Year's Day is a special holiday in Zambia. It is a time of reflection, renewal, and diverse festivities that resonate with families, communities, and individuals. As the clock strikes midnight, the turning point from 31 December to 1 January sets the stage for fresh beginnings and resolutions. 

Zambia's approach to New Year's Eve and New Year's Day is wonderfully multifaceted. It combines elements of family bonding, religious observance, and social engagement. Public events feature lively performances by singers, culminating in mesmerizing firework displays illuminating the night sky. Some enjoy the festive atmosphere from one nightclub or bar to another, raising their glasses to welcome the new year with merriment. Many others attend the church to transition from the old year to the new one with spiritual guidance and blessings.

Zambia's New Year's celebrations epitomize the rich tapestry of its culture and the significance of family, community, and faith. It is a time of jubilation, reflection, and unity as Zambians usher in the new year with hope, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the traditions that bind them together.

New Year's Day is a special holiday in Zambia

2. International Women's Day - March 8th

International Women's Day holds profound significance in Zambia, as it is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women across the nation. Observed annually on March 8th, this day is for raising awareness about gender equality and advocating for women's rights. 

International Women's holiday in Zambia is marked by many activities and events that aim to empower and uplift women. On this day, men appreciate their wives, mothers, and grandmothers by giving them gifts and flowers. Panel discussions, conferences, and workshops are also organized to address pertinent issues, ranging from women's health and education to economic empowerment and political participation. International Women's Day in Zambia serves as a powerful reminder of the immense potential and invaluable contributions of women in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

3. Youth Day - March 12nd

Youth Day is also a public holiday in Zambia, Africa, observed annually on March 12th, which is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the country's youth. This holiday serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of the youth in sustaining Zambia's progress and development. 

On this special day, the spirit of celebration is palpable throughout the country. Government buildings, businesses, and private residences are decorated with the Zambian flag and vibrant floral decorations, symbolizing unity and pride. Sporting events take center stage, attracting enthusiastic participation and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the youth. Seminars, public speeches by politicians, and various events are also organized to empower and engage young people, providing them with platforms to voice their aspirations, concerns, and ideas.

In digital platforms, the hashtag #YouthDayZambia resonates, enabling the international community to spread awareness and support for this significant holiday.

Youth Day is a public holiday in Zambia, Africa

4. Good Friday - April 7th

Good Friday in Zambia is a day of religious observance, which is celebrated on the Friday before Easter,  commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. The day holds immense importance as it symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus for the redemption of humanity.

In Zambia, people consider Good Friday a day of mourning and reflection. Many churches in Zambia hold special services, particularly in the afternoon, typically from noon to 3 pm, which are the hours believed to correspond to the time of Jesus' crucifixion. During these services, Christians engage in meditation, prayer, and contemplation, focusing on Jesus' suffering and death on the cross and contemplating its profound implications for their faith.  

On Good Friday, schools and most businesses are closed.

5. Kenneth Kaunda Birthday - April 28th

Kenneth Kaunda Birthday is an important Zambia holiday celebrated in honor of the life and legacy of the country's first President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. Born on April 28, 1924, Dr. Kaunda played a pivotal role in Zambia's independence movement and served as the President of Zambia from 1964 to 1991. His leadership and tireless efforts were instrumental in shaping the nation's history and establishing its foundations. 

The holiday commemorates his birthday and serves as a reminder for the next generations of his contributions to the country's development, unity, and liberation. On this day, various events and activities are organized throughout the country, including commemorative ceremonies, cultural performances, and public gatherings. The Kenneth Kaunda Birthday holiday is a time for Zambians to reflect on their nation's history, honor the legacy of a remarkable leader, and reinforce the values of unity, equality, and progress that Dr. Kaunda championed throughout his life.

6. Labour Day - May 1st

Labour Day is held on May 1st annually, an important holiday observed in Zambia to celebrate and honor workers' contributions and achievements across the nation. The holiday recognizes the significant role of workers in the development and prosperity of the country. On Labour Day, Zambians participate in parades, rallies, and other commemorative events organized by trade unions, government institutions, and community organizations. These activities showcase the solidarity and unity of the labor movement, advocating for workers' rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Schools and businesses have a day off on this day. Labour Day in Zambia not only recognizes the labor force's invaluable contributions but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to strive for improved working conditions and better livelihoods for workers across the nation.

7. Africa Unity Day - May 25th

Africa Unity Day, also known as Africa Day, is celebrated annually on May 25th. This day commemorates the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on this same date in 1963. The purpose of Africa Unity Day is to emphasize Africa's ongoing collective struggle against adversity and to celebrate the continent's progress despite the challenges it has faced. It reminds all African citizens of the need for continued efforts to ensure all Africans can live healthy and prosperous lives.

The celebration of Africa Unity Day is to educate younger generations about the diversity and dynamism of the African continent. It helps reverse stereotypes that have often portrayed Africa as a continent of poverty and backwardness. Through the use of visual materials such as photos and videos, Africans can showcase modern Africa, highlighting its rich history of ancient civilizations, abundant natural resources, and innovative thinkers.

Additionally, on Africa Unity Day, students are taught about the significance of African unity for the continent's people. By illustrating Africa's diverse patchwork of peoples and communities, students can better understand the external pressures Africa has faced, such as exploitation and occupation. Therefore, they will nurture a collective desire to be free from it and work towards an equal international system together. 

Africa Unity Day is observed as a statutory public holiday in several countries, including Zambia, Gambia, Mali, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Africa Unity Day is an important Zambia holiday

8. Heroes' Day - July (first Monday)

Heroes' Day in Zambia is among the most important Zambia holidays, being celebrated on the first Monday of July. The significance of this day lies in honoring the courageous individuals who played pivotal roles in Zambia's prolonged struggle for independence. Over time, the definition of heroes has expanded to not only those directly involved in the independence movement but also individuals who have made heroic contributions to the nation's progress and development. 

Heroes' Day is followed by Unity Day, and both are observed as public holidays throughout the country. On these significant occasions, businesses, schools, and offices are closed, allowing Zambians to participate in events and activities that pay tribute to the heroes and promote unity among the population. 

By observing Heroes' Day and Unity Day, Zambia celebrates its history, recognizes the contributions of historical and contemporary heroes, and highlights the importance of unity in pursuing a prosperous and united nation. 

Moreover, there are some important holidays in Zambia, including the Unity Day, Farmers’ Day, National Prayer Day, Independence Day, and Christmas Day. Each of these holidays is celebrated for a specific purpose and holds a significant place in the hearts of Zambians, reflecting important aspects of their history, culture, values, and aspirations. 

Planning a trip to immerse yourself in the cultural events during these national holidays in Zambia? Apply for a Zambia visa online today and get ready for a memorable trip to Zambia!