Boxing Day in Kenya
View the global Boxing Day guide
Boxing Day is a nationwide Kenyan public holiday on 26 December. If it falls on Sunday, Kenya's Public Holidays Act substitutes the next day that is not already a public holiday; there is no extension merely because it falls on another weekday.
Boxing Day
Holiday
Kenya
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Saturday
Day
Dec
26
December 26, 2026
Boxing Day Date in Kenya
Date
December 26, 2026
Day
Saturday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
No
Date Confirmed
Yes
Boxing Day Dates in Kenya
Boxing Day 2026
- Confirmed
Boxing Day 2027
- Confirmed
- Confirmed
Boxing Day 2028
- Confirmed
History of Boxing Day
The holiday follows Christmas Day and is expressly included in Part I of the statutory schedule.
Importance of Boxing Day
It extends the Christmas family period and affects office, banking and transport schedules during Kenya's busiest travel season.
How Boxing Day Is Celebrated in Kenya
People continue family visits, leisure trips and community activities. Retail and hospitality businesses may operate with festive hours.
Office Impact
Public offices remain closed. Essential departments may require staff under the savings provision in the Act.
Bank Impact
Bank branches normally close, and consecutive Christmas-period dates can postpone clearing.
School Impact
Schools remain on the annual vacation, whose duration comes from the education calendar.
Travel Information
Heavy return and holiday travel can affect highways and terminals. Check service availability before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Boxing Day in Kenya?
It is fixed on 26 December.
When is a substitute holiday created?
For a Part I holiday, the Act provides substitution when the date falls on Sunday.
Is 27 December always a holiday?
No. It is not an automatic extension in years when 26 December is not Sunday.