Workers' Day
Nationwide public holiday in South Africa
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 May | Friday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 1 May | Saturday | Nationwide |
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.
Typical weather in Johannesburg around 1 May: high 24°C (75°F), low 9°C (48°F), rain on 9% 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 Saturday 1 May in Johannesburg: (MET Norway)
About Workers' Day
Workers' Day, on 1 May, is South Africa's observance of International Workers' Day. It recognises the contribution of workers to the economy and society and the role of trade unions, which were an important force in the struggle against apartheid and remain influential in national public life today.
Traditions
Trade union federations commonly hold rallies, marches and meetings, often addressing wages, employment and working conditions, and political leaders may address these gatherings. For many other South Africans it is simply a day of rest with family.
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
Wednesday, 16 June 2027
Workers' Day in other countries
Cabo Verde
Eswatini
Guinea-Bissau
Lesotho
Namibia
Nigeria
Sao Tome and Principe
Zimbabwe
Brazil
Malta
Paraguay
San Marino
More for South Africa
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.