Easter 2026 Is Just Around the Corner – Are You Ready?
With Easter 2026 just three months away, South Africans are already starting to dream of chocolate eggs, family braais, and a well-deserved long weekend. This year, Easter offers a four-day break, a perfect opportunity to reconnect with loved ones or even sneak in a little getaway before winter sets in.
The Easter 2026 Calendar You Need to Know
Here’s what you need in your planner:
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Good Friday: Friday, 3 April 2026
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Easter Sunday: Sunday, 5 April 2026
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Family Day: Monday, 6 April 2026
While Easter Sunday itself isn’t officially a public holiday in South Africa, Good Friday and Family Day are gazetted holidays, meaning most offices, schools, and businesses will be closed.
Fun fact: Family Day was officially renamed from Easter Monday back in 1995. The change was meant to make the holiday more inclusive for all South Africans, regardless of religion or cultural background – a reminder that our long weekends are as much about unity as they are about chocolate and relaxation.
How to Stretch Your Easter 2026 Break
For those who like to maximise leave, some smart planning can turn the naturally long weekend into a nine-day escape:
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Take leave from Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 April 2026, and you could enjoy a full nine-day break from Saturday 4 April through Sunday 12 April.
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If nine days isn’t on the cards, even a one-day add-on (Thursday 2 or Tuesday 7 April) turns Easter into a five- or six-day mini-break.
Whether it’s local road trips or an international escape, early planning is key – flights and accommodation book up fast around Easter.
Easter Weather and Travel Tips
Autumn in South Africa is a hidden gem for travel. Expect mild, pleasant weather in regions like KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo – perfect for a braai, beach visit, or hiking adventure.
Unfortunately, this year Human Rights Day (21 March 2026) falls on a Saturday, meaning it doesn’t connect to the Easter break as it sometimes can. Still, the long weekend remains one of the best chances to recharge and enjoy family time before the year gets busy.
Make the Most of Easter 2026
Whether you’re planning a quiet weekend at home, an adventure-filled getaway, or a family reunion, Easter 2026 offers South Africans the space to pause, reflect, and connect. After all, long weekends like this aren’t just about holidays – they’re about moments that stay with you, shared over laughter, food, and memories.
So, what’s your plan? Are you hitting the road, flying abroad, or keeping it cosy at home? Share your ideas and let’s make this Easter one to remember!
Source: The South African
Featured Image: Pexels
