Good Friday
Good Friday is one of South Africa's 12 official public holidays under the Public Holidays Act (Act 36 of 1994). It is a moveable holiday whose date changes each year. Next: 26 March 2027.
Friday before Easter Sunday
Next Occurrence
26 March 2027
Friday
Good Friday Dates
| Year | Date | Day | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 3 April 2026 | Friday | — |
| 2027 Next | 26 March 2027 | Friday | — |
Good Friday creates a 4-day long weekend in 2027
26 Mar – 29 Mar · No leave needed
Planning around Good Friday 2027?
Planning Your Autumn Long Weekend — read the full easter break 2027 guide with weather, school terms, and travel tips.
Read the Easter Break 2027 guideMaximise your leave around Good Friday 2027
26 Mar – 29 Mar · 0 leave day → 4 days off
See full leave planWhat is the history of Good Friday?
Good Friday is observed by Christians worldwide as the day Jesus Christ was crucified. In South Africa, Christian traditions were brought by European settlers from the 17th century onwards. Today, South Africa has one of Africa's largest Christian populations, with approximately 80% of the population identifying as Christian. The day has been a public holiday since colonial times and remains significant in the post-apartheid era, reflecting the country's religious diversity while honoring its Christian heritage.
Why do we celebrate Good Friday in South Africa?
Good Friday is a solemn day of reflection for Christians, marking the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Many South Africans attend church services, participate in processions, and observe fasting. It's also the start of the Easter long weekend, making it popular for family getaways.
How is Good Friday celebrated in South Africa?
- Church services and processions
- Eating hot cross buns
- Fasting and prayer
- Family gatherings
- Easter egg hunts preparation
What's Open
Some restaurants, petrol stations, tourist attractions
What's Closed
Most businesses, liquor stores (no alcohol sales), government offices
Related Holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Free things to do on public holidays
No budget required — these are free across South Africa and available year-round.
Public Libraries
Free membership at any municipal library. Most run free holiday programmes for children during school breaks — check your local branch for crafts, storytelling, and reading clubs.
Parks & Nature Reserves
Municipal parks, botanical gardens, and local nature reserves are free across all nine provinces. Bring a picnic and let kids run.
Beaches
Public beaches are free. Most municipal beaches have ablution facilities and lifeguards during peak season. Check local surf reports before heading out.
Hiking & Walking Trails
Thousands of free walking and hiking trails exist in municipal reserves, state forests, and green belts. Most are well-marked and family-friendly.
Museums & Galleries
Many national and provincial museums offer free entry, including the SA Museum (Cape Town), Museum Africa (Joburg), and Natal Museum (Pietermaritzburg). Check ahead for free days.
Sports & Recreation
Municipal sports fields, tennis courts, athletics tracks, and skate parks are generally free to use. Many municipalities also offer free swimming sessions on public holidays.
Planning a trip around Good Friday?
Browse popular SA destinations for March — weather, activities, and what to do.
View School Terms by Province
See how Good Friday falls within the school calendar: