Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe public holidays and festivals: dates and closures
If you can travel on public holidays, plan for government offices, banks and many shops to be closed; otherwise avoid the busiest holidays for smoother travel. For festivals, HIFA (late April–early May) and the Bulawayo Arts Festival (September) are worth timing a visit around.
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Key facts
- New Year's Day
- 1 January
- Independence Day
- 18 April
- Workers' Day
- 1 May
- Africa Day
- 25 May
- Heroes' Day
- Second Monday of August
- Defense Forces Day
- Third Monday of August
- National Unity Day
- 22 December
- Christmas Day
- 25 December
- Boxing Day
- 26 December
Public holidays 2026
The following dates are observed nationally in 2026. When a holiday falls on a weekend, the following Monday is usually observed.
New Year’s Day – 1 Jan (Thu)
Independence Day – 18 Apr (Mon)
Workers’ Day – 1 May (Fri)
Africa Day – 25 May (Mon)
Heroes’ Day – 10 Aug (Mon, second Monday of August)
Defense Forces Day – 17 Aug (Mon, third Monday of August)
National Unity Day – 22 Dec (Tue)
Christmas Day – 25 Dec (Sun, observed 26 Dec)
Boxing Day – 26 Dec (Mon, observed 27 Dec)
- Check local calendars for any additional regional holidays.
Key festivals worth timing a visit
Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) – late April to early May, major concerts, theatre and visual art; hotels fill fast.
Zimbabwe International Book Fair – August, Harare; cultural talks and author signings, good for literary travellers.
Bulawayo Arts Festival – September, showcases local music and dance; good weather for outdoor events.
Great Zimbabwe Festival – early June, traditional dance and craft markets near the ruins.
- Festival dates can shift; verify the current year’s schedule before booking.
What closes on public holidays
Government offices, courts, and most banks are closed.
Post offices and customs offices operate limited hours.
Public schools and universities are closed, affecting any campus tours.
Many private shops and restaurants stay open, especially in tourist hubs, but smaller stores in towns may be shut.
Public transport runs on reduced schedules; long‑distance bus services may not operate on Heroes’ Day and Independence Day.
- Plan airport transfers and park entry days around these closures to avoid delays.
Quick tips for holiday travel
Carry cash for banks that are closed; ATMs usually work.
Book accommodation and park permits well in advance for holidays.
If you need a government service, schedule it before or after the holiday period.
Check airline and bus timetables for holiday adjustments.
Questions people ask
What are the public holidays in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe observes New Year’s Day (1 Jan), Independence Day (18 Apr), Workers’ Day (1 May), Africa Day (25 May), Heroes’ Day (second Monday of August), Defense Forces Day (third Monday of August), National Unity Day (22 Dec), Christmas (25 Dec) and Boxing Day (26 Dec).
Which festivals are worth planning a trip around in Zimbabwe?
Major events include HIFA (late Apr–early May), Zimbabwe International Book Fair (August), Bulawayo Arts Festival (September) and the Great Zimbabwe Festival (early June).
What closes on public holidays in Zimbabwe?
Government offices, banks, post offices, schools and many small shops close; public transport may run on reduced schedules.
Do tourist sites like Victoria Falls stay open on holidays?
National parks and major tourist attractions stay open, but entry offices may have shorter hours; check ahead for any holiday-specific changes.
Should I carry cash on holidays?
Yes, because banks are closed and some ATMs may be out of service; having cash ensures you can pay for food, transport and park fees.
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Deep dive
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