Zambia Public Holidays 2025
Zambia has 13 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 |
| 9 Mar | Sun | Women’s Day | public |
| 12 Mar | Wed | Youth Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 25 May | Sun | African Freedom Day | public |
| 26 May | Mon | African Freedom Day (substitute day) | public |
| 7 Jul | Mon | Heroes' Day | public |
| 8 Jul | Tue | Unity Day | public |
| 4 Aug | Mon | Farmers' Day | public |
| 24 Oct | Fri | Independence Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
About Zambia's Holidays
Zambia marks a mix of national, public, and cultural holidays that celebrate history, religion, work, and community. The biggest are national independence and days that honor heroes, unity, and national pride.
Religious holidays are important because most people are Christian. Good Friday, Easter, Christmas and the day after are widely observed, with church, family meals, and time off work.
There are also civil holidays for workers and farmers. Labour and Farmers days celebrate work and agriculture, often with fairs, parades, and awards for achievement in farming and industry.
Local cultural festivals and regional commemorations add variety. These events show Zambias diverse ethnic traditions, music, dance, and community gatherings that bring people together.
Holiday Traditions
In Zambia, holidays bring families together to share food, music, and stories. People prepare traditional dishes like nshima with vegetables, relish, or meat. Sweets and tea are common when visitors arrive. Cooking and eating are a joyful way to show care.
Family gatherings are warm and loud. Elders are respected and often lead prayers or give short speeches. Children play games and sing while adults catch up. Relatives travel from nearby towns to join big meals and celebrate unity and heritage in the home.
Public celebrations include church services, parades, and community dances. Drumming, colorful clothes, and folk songs show cultural pride. Local markets buzz with people buying food and crafts. Communities use holidays to pass on traditions to younger generations.
Travel Tips
Zambia’s holiday season often means government offices, banks, and some shops are closed or on reduced hours. Hospitals and emergency services keep working. Tourist attractions usually stay open but may change their hours or offer limited services.
Flights, long distance buses, and tourist trains get very busy. Book flights and intercity transport early. In rural areas petrol stations and services may be closed on key days, so fuel before traveling. Night driving can be slower and less safe.
Expect crowds in Lusaka and at Victoria Falls. Reserve hotels, safaris, and tours well in advance. Carry extra cash because ATMs can run out and some businesses close. Check opening hours, buy travel insurance, and get a local SIM for updates.