Uganda Public Holidays 2025
Uganda has 15 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 |
| 26 Jan | Sun | Liberation Day | public |
| 16 Feb | Sun | Archbishop Janan Luwum Day | public |
| 5 Mar | Wed | Ash Wednesday | observance |
| 8 Mar | Sat | International Women's Day | public |
| 30 Mar | Sun | End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 3 Jun | Tue | Martyr's Day | public |
| 6 Jun | Fri | Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) | public |
| 9 Jun | Mon | National Heroes Day | public |
| 9 Oct | Thu | Independence Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
About Uganda's Holidays
Uganda has a mix of national and cultural holidays that bring people together. Important national days mark the country itself and those who fought for it. These days often have official ceremonies, speeches, and parades in towns and cities.
Religious holidays are very important. Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated with church services, family meals, and time off. Muslim festivals such as Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha are also public holidays and are observed with prayers, feasting, and visiting relatives.
Other notable public days honor national heroes and historical events. Many holidays blend solemn remembrance with celebration, and most workers get the day off so families can gather and communities can hold events.
Holiday Traditions
In Uganda holidays bring families together. People visit relatives, share stories, and honor traditions. Elders give blessings and children often wear nice clothes. Respect for community and family is very important during these days.
Food is central to celebrations. Families cook special dishes like roasted meat, rice, fresh matoke bananas, and local snacks. Meals are shared outdoors or in large homes. Cooking and eating together shows love and unity.
Communities hold public events and music. There are dances, drums, and singing that reflect different cultures. Markets bustle with colorful clothes and crafts. Religious services and parades also play a big role in public celebrations.
Travel Tips
Visiting Uganda during the holiday season means some government offices, banks, and shops close or have shorter hours. Tourist sites and restaurants often stay open, but check ahead because local observances can change schedules.
Public transport like buses and boda bodas becomes much busier. Roads to cities and popular parks can have heavy traffic. Book flights, trains, and long distance buses well in advance to avoid sold out trips.
Tourist areas like Kampala and national parks can be crowded. Prices for hotels and safaris may rise. Carry cash since some smaller vendors may not accept cards during busy times.
Plan with flexible dates, print confirmation copies, and allow extra travel time. Respect local customs and enjoy the lively holiday atmosphere.