Holiday Calendar
Botswana Public Holidays 2026
Official national and public holidays for Botswana in 2026.
Botswana stands apart from most African destinations as a country that has deliberately chosen quality over quantity in tourism, protecting its extraordinary wildlife and wilderness while building one of Africa's most stable and prosperous democracies. Landlocked in the heart of southern Africa, this vast land — roughly the size of France — is dominated by the Kalahari Desert, the Okavango…
← Full Botswana guideTotal Holidays
11
Next Holiday
Sir Seretse Khama Day
Days Until Next
41
Year
2026
| Date | Local Name | English Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Jan 1, 2026
Thursday
|
New Year's Day | New Year's Day | Public |
|
Apr 3, 2026
Friday
|
Good Friday | Good Friday | Public |
|
Apr 6, 2026
Monday
|
Easter Monday | Easter Monday | Public |
|
May 1, 2026
Friday
|
Labour Day | Labour Day | Public |
|
May 14, 2026
Thursday
|
Ascension Day | Ascension Day | Public |
|
Jul 1, 2026
Wednesday
|
Sir Seretse Khama Day | Sir Seretse Khama Day | Public |
|
Jul 20, 2026
Monday
|
Presidents' Day | Presidents' Day | Public |
|
Sep 30, 2026
Wednesday
|
Independence Day | Independence Day | Public |
|
Oct 1, 2026
Thursday
|
Botswana Day holiday | Botswana Day holiday | Public |
|
Dec 25, 2026
Friday
|
Christmas Day | Christmas Day | Public |
|
Dec 26, 2026
Saturday
|
Boxing Day | St. Stephen's Day | Public |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays does Botswana have in 2026?
Botswana has 11 public holidays in 2026.
What is the next public holiday in Botswana?
The next public holiday in Botswana is Sir Seretse Khama Day on July 1, 2026.
Are banks closed on public holidays in Botswana?
Yes, banks and government offices are typically closed on national public holidays in Botswana. ATMs remain accessible.
Do shops open on public holidays in Botswana?
This varies. In major cities, shops may remain open on some holidays, while smaller towns and rural areas often close on national public holidays in Botswana.
Is New Year's Day a national holiday in Botswana?
Yes, New Year's Day is listed as an official public holiday in Botswana in 2026.
Are public holidays paid days off in Botswana?
In Botswana, national public holidays are generally considered paid days off for employees. Specific rules may vary by employment contract and sector.
Are there long weekends in Botswana in 2026?
Long weekends occur when a public holiday falls on a Friday or Monday. Check the holiday calendar above to identify these dates in Botswana for 2026.
Do public holidays in Botswana affect travel and transport?
Yes. On major public holidays in Botswana, public transport may run on reduced schedules and many businesses may be closed or operate reduced hours.