Lesotho holiday calendar

Public holidays in Lesotho 2026

Calendar compilation last reviewed

Plan the year with every Lesotho public holiday, regional date and major cultural observance in our calendar. Each entry links to a detailed guide covering its history, status, traditions and sources.

Public holidays
11
Regional dates
0
Observances
1
Substitute dates
0

How public holidays work in Lesotho

The calendar separates public holidays from regional dates and cultural observances. Public holidays are the broadest category in our Lesotho calendar. Regional holidays may apply only in a particular state, province, territory or community, while an observance does not automatically mean that workplaces, schools or public services close.

No separate substitute dates are currently listed for 2026. Weekend and time-off rules can still vary by employer, region and holiday, so consult the linked guide and primary source before making arrangements. May is the busiest month, with 3 listed dates.

Lesotho holiday dates in 2026

The table lists 12 calendar entries. Follow a holiday name for its full background, observance details and traditions.

Public holidays, regional dates and cultural observances in Lesotho for 2026
DateHolidayTypeObserved day
New Year’s DayLesotho’s January 1 public holiday opening the Gregorian civil year. This guide explains the date, background, legal status and customary observance of New Year’s Day in Lesotho.Public holiday—
Moshoeshoe’s DayThe March 11 national holiday honouring Moshoeshoe I and the formation of the Basotho nation.Public holiday—
National Tree Planting DayLesotho’s March 21 environmental observance for tree planting, catchment care and land restoration.Cultural observance—
Good FridayLesotho’s Christian public holiday on the Friday before Western Easter Sunday. This guide explains the date, background, legal status and customary observance of Good Friday in Lesotho.Public holiday—
Easter MondayThe public holiday following Western Easter Sunday and completing Lesotho’s Easter weekend.Public holiday—
Workers’ DayLesotho’s May 1 public holiday for workers, labour rights and social dialogue.Public holiday—
Ascension DayLesotho’s Christian public holiday on the Thursday 39 days after Western Easter Sunday.Public holiday—
Africa/Heroes’ DayLesotho’s May 25 public holiday linking African unity with remembrance of national and continental heroes.Public holiday—
King’s BirthdayThe July 17 public holiday marking the birth of Lesotho’s constitutional monarch, King Letsie III.Public holiday—
Independence DayLesotho’s October 4 national holiday marking independence from Britain in 1966. This guide explains the date, background, legal status and customary observance of Independence Day in Lesotho.Public holiday—
Christmas DayLesotho’s December 25 Christian public holiday for Christmas worship, family and community gathering.Public holiday—
Boxing DayLesotho’s December 26 public holiday continuing the Christmas period with visits, giving and rest.Public holiday—

Sources for Lesotho holidays

Calendar dates and classifications are checked against the primary calendar sources below. Historical and cultural claims have additional citations on each individual holiday guide.