Lesotho Public Holidays 2025
Lesotho has 11 public holidays and 0 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 11 Mar | Tue | Moshoeshoe Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Workers' Day | public |
| 25 May | Sun | Africa Day/ Heroes' Day | public |
| 29 May | Thu | Ascension Day | public |
| 17 Jul | Thu | King Letsie III's Birthday | public |
| 4 Oct | Sat | Independence Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
About Lesotho's Holidays
Lesotho marks public life with a few big national holidays. Independence Day and royal celebrations are very important. Workers and public service days also bring people together. These events show national pride and unity across the country.
Religion shapes many holidays. Christian festivals like Easter and Christmas are widely celebrated. Churches, families, and communities gather for worship, meals, and rest. These days are public holidays so schools and many businesses close.
Traditional Basotho culture shows in festivals and rites. Initiation ceremonies, horse racing, music and dance gatherings celebrate heritage. Local cultural festivals draw visitors and keep old customs alive while blending with modern public holiday life.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in Lesotho bring people together with warm traditions. Families wear the colorful Basotho blanket and the woven mokorotlo hat. Many start with church services and blessing of homes. Respect for elders and communal sharing are important parts of the day.
Food is central. Families cook staple dishes like maize porridge and motoho, and share vegetables, stews, and roasted meat. Meals are slow and meant for talking, singing, and passing dishes by hand. Children often get special treats and help with cooking.
Public celebrations mix music, dance, and storytelling. Traditional songs and drumbeats fill town squares. Parades, speeches, and community feasts happen in towns and villages. People greet one another warmly and visitors are welcomed to join the celebration.
Travel Tips
Lesotho (ls) has many public and bank holidays when shops, government offices, and some attractions close early or stay closed. Plan around those days. Expect fewer services in rural areas. Carry cash because ATMs may have limited hours.
Transport can be slower and more crowded. Buses and minibuses fill up before holidays. Book long distance rides and flights early. Road conditions in mountains can change with weather, so allow extra travel time.
Busy times mean higher prices for lodging and limited availability. Pack basic supplies, medicines, and chargers. Check opening hours for museums and health centers. Keep ID and travel documents handy when moving between towns.