Public holidays for December 2020: When do we get a break?

For those of you wondering when this horrendous year will end, there’s good news. We are just 31 days away from dumping 2020 into the dustbin of history. However, that doesn’t mean we cannot enjoy what is left of it. In total, there are three public holidays to look forward to in December – well, four if you count the first day of next month, too.

When is our next public holiday?

In just over two weeks, South Africans will get their first taste of a public holiday since September when the Day of Reconciliation comes around. This falls just before 18 December, which will be our last work Friday before Christmas. The holiday came into effect in 1995 after the end of apartheid, with the intention of fostering national unity within Mzansi. 

The date was chosen because it was significant to both Afrikaner and African cultures. The government chose a meaningful date for both ethnic groups because they acknowledged the need for racial harmony. The celebration of reconciliation can take the form of remembering history, recognising veteran contributions, marching, and other festivities.

What public holidays take place in December in South Africa?

• 16 December 2020: Our Day of Reconciliation falls on a Wednesday – for many, this will be the start of their Christmas holidays.
• 25 December 2020: Christmas Day falls on a Friday this year, meaning a lot of SAns will be working up to Christmas Eve.
• 26 December 2020: The Day of Goodwill will take place on a Saturday – which always feels like we’ve lost a holiday…
• 31 December 2020: Though technically not a public holiday, it’s an important date for the diary. New Year’s Eve is on a Thursday.
• 1 January 2021: This means New Year’s Day – an actual public holiday – will be on a Friday.
• 22 March 2021: You better make the most of your festive time off, as there’s no other state holiday for another 11 weeks when the Human Rights Day holiday is scheduled.

When will Easter fall in 2021?

• Good Friday takes place on the 2nd of April, with the 5th of April also designated as a public holiday.