Independence Day 2025, 2026 and 2027 in Zimbabwe

Every 18 April is Independence Day in Zimbabwe. The country has been independent since 1980, but the process began decades earlier.

Year	Date	Day	Holiday
2025	18 Apr	Fri	Independence Day
2026	18 Apr	Sat	Independence Day
2027	18 Apr	Sun	Independence Day
	19 Apr	Mon	Independence Day Holiday
Please scroll down to end of page for previous years' dates.

In 1923, what was then called “South Rhodesia” gained limited self-government within the British Empire. After World War II, the small white minority in the colony took the reigns of power, whereas power had been more shared earlier. From 1965, a rebellion led by the ruling white minority began, but Britain demanded majority rule before granting independence. Finally, that status was achieved in 1980.

Celebrations every 18 April include ceremonial flag raising, patriotic speeches, and a military parade in the capital city of Harare. The parade takes place in a large sports stadium, but it varies between two different stadiums from year to year. Fighter jets put on a display in the skies above Harare, and white doves are released all over Zimbabwe to symbolize peace. And the national anthem is played profusely.

Previous Years

Year	Date	Day	Holiday
2024	18 Apr	Thu	Independence Day
2023	18 Apr	Tue	Independence Day