2024 Public Holidays in Tanzania
Public Holidays in Tanzania 2024
Tanzania observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year, reflecting its cultural diversity, historical significance, and religious traditions. These holidays are celebrated with various customs, rituals, and festivities, bringing people together to commemorate important events and milestones. Here is a comprehensive list and description of public holidays in Tanzania for the year 2024.
National Public Holidays
New Year’s Day – January 1st
Description: New Year’s Day is celebrated in Tanzania as the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is a time for festivities, gatherings with family and friends, and reflection on the year past and the year ahead. People often make New Year’s resolutions and engage in various cultural and social activities to mark the occasion.
Zanzibar Revolution Day – January 12th
Description: Zanzibar Revolution Day commemorates the overthrow of the Sultanate of Zanzibar by the Afro-Shirazi Party in 1964. It marks a significant event in the history of Zanzibar and Tanzania, leading to the establishment of the People’s Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba. The day is observed with ceremonies, parades, and cultural events to remember the revolution and its impact on the nation.
Good Friday – April 5th
Description: Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed with solemnity and reflection by the Christian community in Tanzania, with church services, processions, and other religious observances held throughout the country.
Easter Monday – April 8th
Description: Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday and is also a public holiday in Tanzania. It is a time for relaxation, family gatherings, and continued celebrations following the Easter weekend. Many people participate in outdoor activities or visit tourist attractions during this time.
Union Day – April 26th
Description: Union Day, also known as Union Day of Tanzania, commemorates the formation of the United Republic of Tanzania on April 26, 1964. It marks the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar, which merged to form a single nation. Union Day is celebrated with patriotic fervor, flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances across the country.
Labour Day – May 1st
Description: Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is observed worldwide to honor the contributions of workers to society. In Tanzania, it is a day for workers to advocate for their rights and to highlight labor issues. Trade unions and workers’ organizations organize rallies, marches, and events to promote workers’ rights and social justice.
Eid al-Fitr – Date varies (May 24th to May 26th)
Description: Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a joyous occasion for Muslims in Tanzania, characterized by prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Families gather to celebrate with special meals, sweets, and gifts. Eid al-Fitr is also a time for forgiveness, reconciliation, and strengthening of community bonds.
Saba Saba Day – July 7th
Description: Saba Saba Day, also known as Industry Day or Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair Day, commemorates the events of July 7, 1954, when the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU) was formed. It is a day to celebrate Tanzania’s achievements in industry, trade, and development. Saba Saba Day is marked by exhibitions, trade fairs, and cultural displays showcasing the country’s progress.
Eid al-Adha – Date varies (August 29th to September 2nd)
Description: Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the most important Islamic holidays celebrated in Tanzania. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Muslims in Tanzania observe Eid al-Adha with prayers, animal sacrifices, and charitable acts to share the blessings of the occasion.
Nyerere Day – October 14th
Description: Nyerere Day commemorates the life and legacy of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the first President of Tanzania. Nyerere was a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence and played a significant role in shaping Tanzania’s political and social development. The day is observed with ceremonies, tributes, and educational activities to honor Nyerere’s contributions to the nation.
Maulid Day – Date varies (October 30th)
Description: Maulid Day, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, commemorates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. It is celebrated by Muslims in Tanzania with prayers, sermons, and readings from the Quran. Maulid Day is a time for reflection on the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and is marked by acts of charity and kindness.
Christmas Day – December 25th
Description: Christmas Day is celebrated by the Christian community in Tanzania to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Churches are adorned with nativity scenes, and homes are decorated with Christmas trees and lights. Traditional Christmas foods are enjoyed, and gifts are exchanged to spread joy and goodwill.
Table: Public Holidays and Days Off in Tanzania 2024
| Public Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups of People |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General population |
| Zanzibar Revolution Day | January 12 | 1 day | General population |
| Good Friday | April 5 | 1 day | Christian community |
| Easter Monday | April 8 | 1 day | General population |
| Union Day | April 26 | 1 day | General population |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | Workers |
| Eid al-Fitr | May 24-26 | 3 days (varies) | Muslims |
| Saba Saba Day | July 7 | 1 day | General population |
| Eid al-Adha | August 29-September 2 | 4 days (varies) | Muslims |
| Nyerere Day | October 14 | 1 day | General population |
| Maulid Day | October 30 | 1 day | Muslims |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | Christian community |