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What's Open on Day of Reconciliation 2026

Wednesday, 16 December 2026

Day of Reconciliation falls in the middle of the December festive season. Most workplaces are closed from 16 December through New Year.

Open

  • Grocery retailers - Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Spar (most stores open, reduced hours)
  • Petrol stations - open 24/7 nationwide
  • Pharmacies - most Dis-Chem, Clicks, and pharmacy stand-alones open (reduced hours)
  • Restaurants - most open, reduced hours; some independents close
  • Movie theatres + cinemas - normally open
  • Shopping malls - open with reduced hours (typically 09:00-17:00 instead of 21:00)
  • Hospitals and emergency services - open 24/7
  • Uber, Bolt, taxis - operate normally (often busier than weekdays)

Closed

  • Government services - Home Affairs, SASSA, Department of Labour, Traffic Departments
  • Banks - all branches closed; ATMs and online banking operate normally
  • Post Office (SAPO) branches
  • SARS branches and physical service points (eFiling operates normally)
  • Most office-based businesses
  • Most schools and universities (in school terms)
  • Stock exchange (JSE)
  • Most public libraries

Liquor sales on Day of Reconciliation

  • Liquor stores - generally open, normal liquor-sale hours apply (subject to provincial laws)
  • Restaurants serving liquor - open under their normal liquor licence
  • Bars and clubs - open
Note: Many businesses close for an extended festive break starting on Day of Reconciliation through 2 January.

FAQs - Day of Reconciliation 2026

Is Shoprite open on Day of Reconciliation?
Yes - Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths and Spar are all open on Day of Reconciliation with reduced trading hours (typically 09:00-18:00). Hours vary by store - check your local branch.
Are banks open on Day of Reconciliation?
No. All SA bank branches are closed on Day of Reconciliation. ATMs, online banking and mobile apps work as normal.
Is Home Affairs open on Day of Reconciliation?
No. Home Affairs offices are closed on every SA public holiday including Day of Reconciliation. eHomeAffairs online services may still work.
Can I buy alcohol on Day of Reconciliation?
Yes - bottle stores are generally open on Day of Reconciliation during normal liquor-sale hours. Check your provincial liquor laws for any special restrictions.
Are petrol stations open on Day of Reconciliation?
Yes. Petrol stations operate 24/7 every day of the year in South Africa, including Day of Reconciliation. Forecourt convenience shops may have reduced hours.

Other 2026 public holidays

Related

Trading hours summarised from each retailer's published holiday trading schedule. Individual stores may vary - check your local store. Liquor sales subject to provincial laws. Last verified 2026-05-14.

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