2024 Public Holidays in South Sudan

Public Holidays in South Sudan 2024

South Sudan celebrates several public holidays throughout the year, each with its own cultural, religious, or historical significance. These holidays bring communities together and provide opportunities for reflection, celebration, and rest. Here is a comprehensive list and description of public holidays in South Sudan for the year 2024.

New Year’s Day – January 1st

Description: New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is celebrated with joyous gatherings, fireworks, and resolutions for the upcoming year. In South Sudan, it is a time for both reflection on the past year’s achievements and anticipation for the year ahead.

Independence Day – January 9th

Description: Independence Day commemorates the day in 2011 when South Sudan gained independence from Sudan, becoming the world’s youngest nation. This significant holiday is celebrated with parades, flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, and speeches honoring the struggles and sacrifices made for independence.

Good Friday – April 5th

Description: Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is observed with solemnity and reflection by Christians in South Sudan through church services, processions, and prayers.

Easter Monday – April 8th

Description: Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and is observed as a public holiday in South Sudan. It is a time for family gatherings, picnics, and various outdoor activities. Many people also attend church services to continue the Easter celebrations.

Labour Day – May 1st

Description: Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, honors the contributions of workers to society. In South Sudan, it is a day to recognize the achievements of workers and advocate for labor rights. Parades, rallies, and speeches are common activities on this day.

Martyrs’ Day – July 30th

Description: Martyrs’ Day commemorates the lives of those who lost their lives during the South Sudanese Civil War. It is a day of remembrance and reflection on the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom. Events include memorial services, laying of wreaths, and speeches by government officials.

Eid al-Fitr – Date varies (July 27th to July 29th)

Description: Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a joyous occasion celebrated with prayers, feasting, giving of gifts, and acts of charity. In South Sudan, Muslims gather for communal prayers and share meals with family and friends.

Independence and Liberation Day – August 28th

Description: Independence and Liberation Day commemorates the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005, which paved the way for South Sudan’s eventual independence. It celebrates the country’s journey to freedom and peace, with festivities including parades, cultural performances, and speeches.

Eid al-Adha – Date varies (August 5th to August 9th)

Description: Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated with prayers, feasting, and the distribution of meat to the less fortunate. Families come together to share in the spirit of sacrifice and generosity.

Christmas Day – December 25th

Description: Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important Christian holidays. In South Sudan, it is observed with religious services, festive gatherings, gift-giving, and feasting. Communities come together to share in the joy of the holiday season.

Boxing Day – December 26th

Description: Boxing Day, also known as St. Stephen’s Day, is traditionally observed as a day for giving gifts to service workers and those in need. While not widely celebrated in South Sudan, it is recognized as a public holiday, providing an opportunity for rest and relaxation following the festivities of Christmas Day.

Table: Public Holidays and Days Off in South Sudan 2024