South Sudan Public Holidays 2025
South Sudan has 11 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 |
| 9 Jan | Thu | Peace Agreement Day | public |
| 8 Mar | Sat | International Women's Day | public |
| 31 Mar | Mon | End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) | public |
| 16 May | Fri | SPLA Day | public |
| 8 Jun | Sun | Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) | public |
| 7 Jul | Mon | Mother's Day | observance |
| 9 Jul | Wed | Independence Day | public |
| 30 Jul | Wed | Martyrs Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 28 Dec | Sun | Republic Day | public |
| 31 Dec | Wed | New Year's Eve | public |
About South Sudan's Holidays
South Sudan’s holiday life centers on independence and faith. Independence Day on July 9 is the biggest national celebration, with speeches, parades, and community events. People take pride in the country and remember the struggle for freedom.
Religious holidays are very important. Most people celebrate Christian festivals like Christmas and Easter with church, family meals, and songs. Muslim communities observe Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha with prayer, charity, and gatherings. These holidays shape public life and bring families together.
Other public holidays include New Year and Labor Day. Traditional cultural events and local festivals also matter, often tied to community rituals, music, dance, and the farming or cattle calendar.
Holiday Traditions
Holidays in South Sudan bring families together. People cook special meals like porridge from sorghum or millet, stews, and roasted meat. Food is shared with neighbors and elders as a sign of respect and community.
Traditional music, drum dancing, and singing are common. Men and women wear bright, patterned clothes. Young people often perform folk dances while elders tell stories about history and values.
Public celebrations mix prayer, speeches, and parades. Markets get busy and people exchange greetings and small gifts. Flags and community decorations appear in towns as everyone joins in the joyful mood.
Travel Tips
During the holiday season many government offices, banks, and some markets close or have short hours. Plan for limited services and expect shops in cities to reopen slowly after holidays. Carry enough cash since ATMs may be empty.
Flights and public buses are busier and may sell out. Road travel can be slower because of checkpoints and holiday traffic. Allow extra travel time, check flight schedules, and book transport and accommodation early to avoid surprises.
Health clinics and pharmacies may have reduced hours, so bring medicines you need. Stay aware of local security news and keep ID ready. Be respectful of local customs and dress, and travel with a flexible schedule.