Youth Day
Nationwide public holiday in South Africa
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 16 June | Tuesday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 16 June | Wednesday | 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 16 June: high 19°C (66°F), low 3°C (38°F), rain on 3% 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 Wednesday 16 June in Johannesburg: (MET Norway)
About Youth Day
Youth Day, on 16 June, commemorates the Soweto uprising of 1976, when thousands of school students marched in protest against the imposition of Afrikaans as a language of instruction in Black schools. Police opened fire on the students, and many young people were killed in the protests that followed. The day honours the role of youth in the struggle against apartheid.
Traditions
Commemorations take place in Soweto, including at the Hector Pieterson Memorial, named after one of the students killed. Events across the country focus on young people, with speeches, debates, music and educational activities. June is also marked as Youth 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
Monday, 9 August 2027
Youth Day in other countries
More for South Africa
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.