National Women's Day
Nationwide public holiday in South Africa
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 9 August | Sunday | Nationwide |
| 2026 | 10 August | Monday | National Women's Day (observed) Observed day off for National Women's Day (Sun 9 Aug) |
| 2027 | 9 August | Monday | Nationwide |
Observed days are days off given instead of, or as well as, the holiday's own date, for example when it falls on a weekend or the law moves it to a Monday.
Where it applies
Everywhere in South Africa.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Sat 7 Aug – Mon 9 Aug is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Johannesburg around 9 August: high 23°C (73°F), low 5°C (42°F), rain on 1% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Johannesburg. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Monday 9 August in Johannesburg: (MET Norway)
About National Women's Day
National Women's Day, on 9 August, commemorates the march of 9 August 1956, when around 20,000 women gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the extension of the pass laws to women. The day honours the role of women in the struggle against apartheid and in South African society.
Traditions
Events across the country celebrate women's achievements and address issues such as gender equality and violence against women. The march is remembered with the slogan associated with it, which says that striking a woman is like striking a rock. August is also observed as Women's Month.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in South Africa
Friday, 24 September 2027
National Women's Day in other countries
More for South Africa
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.