Complete Guide to Kenyan Public Holidays in 2026

2026 Public Holidays Calendar

Kenya observes public holidays as gazetted under the Public Holidays Act, Chapter 110 of the Laws of Kenya. Here is the complete list for 2026:

Note: Islamic holidays such as Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha are also observed but their exact dates depend on the lunar calendar and are gazetted separately each year.

Understanding Each Holiday

Madaraka Day (June 1)

Marks the day Kenya attained internal self-rule from Britain on June 1, 1963 — six months before full independence. "Madaraka" means "responsibility" or "self-governance" in Swahili.

Mazingira Day (October 10)

Formerly known as Moi Day and later Huduma Day, it was designated Mazingira Day under the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 2024 to dedicate a national public holiday to environmental conservation, tree growing, and climate action across Kenya. "Mazingira" means "environment" in Swahili.

Mashujaa Day (October 20)

Previously Kenyatta Day, renamed in 2010 to honour all heroes of Kenya's independence struggle and beyond. "Mashujaa" means "heroes" in Swahili.

Jamhuri Day (December 12)

Kenya's Independence Day — commemorating December 12, 1963, when Kenya became a republic. "Jamhuri" means "republic" in Swahili.

Holiday Pay Rules

Under the Employment Act 2007:

• Employees who work on a public holiday are entitled to at least one day's wages in addition to their regular pay — effectively double pay.
• If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as the holiday.
• Employers cannot compel employees to work on public holidays unless the employment contract specifically provides for it.

Planning Around Holidays

2026 offers several opportunities for long weekends:

• Easter: Good Friday (April 3) + Easter Monday (April 6) creates a 4-day weekend
• Labour Day + Weekend: May 1 falls on a Friday — 3-day weekend
• Madaraka Day: June 1 falls on a Monday — 3-day weekend

For the interactive version with countdown timers and calendar integration, visit the KenyaHub Public Holidays Tool.