Eswatini, a small landlocked country located in Southern Africa, celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are a blend of cultural, religious, and national observances, reflecting the country's rich heritage. Here are some of the notable public holidays in Eswatini.
- New Year's Day (January 1st): Eswatini welcomes the new year with celebrations, parties, and social gatherings, much like other countries around the world.
- Reed Dance (Umhlanga or Incwala) (Date Varies): The Reed Dance is a cultural festival that takes place annually, usually in late August or early September. Young women from different regions gather at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence to present reeds to the Queen Mother. It's a vibrant and colorful celebration of Swazi culture and tradition.
- Independence Day (September 6th): Eswatini commemorates its independence from British colonial rule on this day. The celebrations include parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays.
- Christmas Day (December 25th): Christmas is celebrated with religious services, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts, in line with Christian traditions.
- Boxing Day (December 26th): Boxing Day is a public holiday marked by various events, including sports and charitable activities. It's a day for giving back and enjoying the outdoors.
- Easter Weekend (Date Varies): Easter is observed with religious services, family gatherings, and the sharing of meals. Good Friday and Easter Monday are both public holidays.
- King's Birthday (April 19th): King Mswati III's birthday is celebrated with parades, cultural events, and public festivities.
- Incwala Day (Date Varies): Also known as the Kingship Ceremony, Incwala is a sacred event in Eswatini's cultural calendar. It celebrates the renewal of kingship and the harvest. The exact date varies each year, as it's determined by the moon.
- Ascension Day (Date Varies): Ascension Day is a Christian holiday observed with religious services.
- National Flag Day (October 25th): This holiday celebrates Eswatini's national flag and its significance to the country's identity.
- Public Service Day (Date Varies): This day recognizes and honors the contributions of public servants in the country.
- Swaziland Day (April 19th): This holiday commemorates the country's independence and is a time for reflection on its history and progress.
These public holidays provide opportunities for Eswatini's citizens to celebrate their culture, history, and religious beliefs. They often involve traditional ceremonies, music, dance, and vibrant displays of Swazi heritage.