Namibia Public Holidays 2025
Namibia has 13 public holidays and 1 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 21 Mar | Fri | Independence Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | observance |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Workers Day | public |
| 4 May | Sun | Cassinga Day | public |
| 25 May | Sun | Africa Day | public |
| 26 May | Mon | Public Holiday | public |
| 29 May | Thu | Ascension Day | public |
| 26 Aug | Tue | Heroes' Day | public |
| 10 Dec | Wed | Human Rights Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Day of Goodwill | public |
About Namibia's Holidays
Namibia marks big national holidays that celebrate independence and the struggle for freedom. These include days for independence and remembering liberation heroes. They are public holidays when many people attend ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence.
Religious public holidays are important too. Christian celebrations like Easter, Good Friday, Christmas and New Year bring family gatherings, church services and time off work. Labour Day and Africa Day are public occasions that honor workers and continental unity.
Cultural holidays highlight Namibia s rich ethnic diversity. Local festivals and memorial days honor communities such as the Ovaherero, Nama and others. These events mix music, dress and remembrance, helping people share traditions and build national identity.
Holiday Traditions
In Namibia people celebrate holidays with family, food, music, and dance. Families cook shared meals like grilled meat called kapana, millet porridge, and local breads. Meals are simple and meant for everyone to eat together and talk.
Traditional dress and song are common. People wear colorful garments from different tribes, play drums, and perform folk dances. Many gatherings start at church or a community hall, then move outside for dancing and storytelling that keeps culture alive.
Public celebrations bring towns together with parades, speeches, markets, and concerts. Small stalls sell snacks and crafts. The mood is friendly and proud, with people honoring history, community, and shared values through food, art, and togetherness.
Travel Tips
Visiting Namibia (na) in the holiday season means some government offices, banks, and shops close or have shorter hours. Plan to do important errands before public holidays to avoid delays.
Transport hubs like airports and bus stations get very busy. Book flights, car hires, and long distance buses early. Expect limited domestic services on major holiday days.
Tourist sites and lodges may be full or closed. Reserve camps, safaris, and guided tours weeks ahead. Bring cash for small vendors because ATMs can run out in remote areas.
Keep flexible plans for road travel. Roads can be crowded near towns and tourist spots. Pack water, spare fuel, and phone chargers for safer travel.