Christmas Day in Zimbabwe
Christmas Day falls on 25 December and is listed in Zimbabwe’s law as a public holiday alongside the following day. For Zimbabwean Methodists, it is a Christian celebration of Christ’s birth, marked by worship and song.[1][3]
Legal status and time off
The Public Holidays and Prohibition of Business Act names Christmas Day and the day following it in its schedule of public holidays. The Act says that if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also a public holiday; it also provides for a Tuesday holiday when 26 December falls on a Monday.[1]
The Labour Act provides for employees to have leave of absence on public holidays. It says employees are paid their current remuneration for the day if it would otherwise have been a workday for them.[2] This is an employment entitlement; it does not by itself establish that every workplace or service closes.
Christian meaning and worship
Christmas is a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus. The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe describes its observance as commemorating Christ’s birth and incarnation, and says its churches open for worship services on 25 December.[3]
The church’s account says Christmas services include hymns connected with the celebration. It identifies Shona and Ndebele hymns used in Methodist worship, showing how the observance is expressed through the church’s worship traditions in Zimbabwe.[3]
What may be open
Opening arrangements vary by institution. Zimbabwe’s National Museums and Monuments says its major regional museums are open daily except on Good Friday and Christmas Day.[4] National Building Society says its branches close on Sundays and public holidays.[5]
The Act allows the President to restrict business or public access to specified premises through a separate statutory instrument.[1] Visitors should check directly with a particular business or service before travelling.
Christmas Day in Zimbabwe: FAQs
Is Christmas Day a public holiday in Zimbabwe?
When is Christmas Day observed?
Christmas Day is observed on 25 December. If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the Act makes the following Monday a public holiday; it also provides for a Tuesday holiday when 26 December falls on a Monday.[1]
Are banks and museums open on Christmas Day?
Are shops and public transport open?
Opening hours and transport schedules can vary. Check with the business or operator before making plans.
Sources and references
Sources used for Christmas Day in Zimbabwe:
- Public Holidays and Prohibition of Business Act- Zimbabwe Legal Information Institute (ZimLII)
- Labour Act (Chapter 28:01)- Zimbabwe Legal Information Institute (ZimLII)
- Understanding the Christian Calendar in the MCZ Tradition- The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe
- Regional Museums- National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe
- In Branch- National Building Society