Namibia
Namibia public holidays and festivals: dates and closures
If you travel on Namibia's public holidays, expect banks, government offices and many museums to be closed; plan sightseeing for other days and schedule travel around the fixed holidays listed below.
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GuideNamibia
Key facts
- New Year's Day
- 1 Jan
- Independence Day
- 21 Mar
- Good Fridaycheck
- 29 Mar 2026
- Easter Mondaycheck
- 1 Apr 2026
- Workers' Day
- 1 May
- Cassinga Day
- 4 May
- Africa Day
- 25 May
- Heroes' Day
- 26 Aug
- Christmas Day
- 25 Dec
- Boxing Day
- 26 Dec
Public holidays 2026 (dates may shift for Easter)
The following holidays are observed nationwide. Most private shops stay open, but banks, post offices, government services and many museums close.
Good Friday and Easter Monday move each year; in 2026 they fall on 29 Mar and 1 Apr.
| Holiday | Date | Typical closures |
|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | 1 Jan | Banks, government offices |
| Independence Day | 21 Mar | Banks, schools, public offices |
| Good Friday | 29 Mar 2026 | Banks, post offices |
| Easter Monday | 1 Apr 2026 | Banks, museums |
| Workers' Day | 1 May | Banks, public sector |
| Cassinga Day | 4 May | Banks, schools |
| Africa Day | 25 May | Banks, some museums |
| Heroes' Day | 26 Aug | Banks, government offices |
| Christmas Day | 25 Dec | Banks, most attractions |
| Boxing Day | 26 Dec | Banks, some shops |
Festivals worth planning around
Namibia hosts several cultural festivals that may affect accommodation availability:
- **Windhoek Oktoberfest** (late Sep–early Oct): German‑style beer and food festival in the capital.
- **Namibia Tourism Expo** (May): trade fair with travel showcases, often held in Windhoek.
- **Oshiwambo Cultural Festival** (July): traditional music and dance in the north‑west.
- **Etosha Wildlife Festival** (June): guided night drives and talks in Etosha National Park.
- Check dates each year as they can vary.
- Book accommodation early; many hotels fill up fast during festivals.
What typically closes on public holidays
Banks and ATMs: most bank branches close; ATMs remain functional but may have limited cash.
Government offices: immigration, licensing, and municipal services are closed.
Schools and universities: no classes, but campuses are open to visitors.
Museums and galleries: many close, though some private galleries stay open.
Public transport: bus schedules may be reduced; long‑distance coach services often run limited routes.
Questions people ask
What are the public holidays in Namibia?
Namibia observes New Year's Day (1 Jan), Independence Day (21 Mar), Good Friday and Easter Monday (dates vary), Workers' Day (1 May), Cassinga Day (4 May), Africa Day (25 May), Heroes' Day (26 Aug), Christmas (25 Dec) and Boxing Day (26 Dec).
Which festivals are worth planning a trip around in Namibia?
Key festivals include Windhoek Oktoberfest (Sept‑Oct), Namibia Tourism Expo (May), Oshiwambo Cultural Festival (July) and the Etosha Wildlife Festival (June). Check exact dates each year.
What closes on public holidays in Namibia?
Banks, government offices, most museums and many schools close. ATMs work, but cash may be limited. Public transport schedules are often reduced.
Do private shops stay open on holidays?
Most supermarkets, restaurants and tourist‑focused shops remain open, though some may close for staff holidays.
Can I still visit national parks on holidays?
Yes, parks stay open, but entry offices may have reduced staff; arrive early and bring cash for fees.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialNamibia Tourism Board
Ask about Namibia
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