US Embassy in Nairobi to Close on July 3 for Independence Day Observance

The US Embassy in Nairobi will be closed on Friday, 3 July 2026, to observe the United States' Independence Day holiday. 

Normal operations will resume after the holiday weekend. The embassy announced that all offices will suspend services for the day because the official observance of Independence Day has been moved to Friday. 

Although the holiday falls on 4 July, it is being observed a day earlier this year because the date falls on a Saturday. In a public notice, the embassy said: "The U.S. Embassy in Kenya will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Independence Day."

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Although the Continental Congress voted for independence on 2 July, the declaration, drafted mainly by Thomas Jefferson and later revised by Congress, was formally adopted on 4 July. 

The document set out the colonies' grievances against King George III and declared their separation from Britain, establishing the United States as an independent nation. The Fourth of July is one of the United States' most important national holidays. 

It is marked by fireworks, parades, concerts, community events and official ceremonies that recognise the country's history, democratic traditions and founding principles. The closure of US embassies and consulates follows the federal practice of observing public holidays on the nearest weekday when they fall at the weekend.

This allows government employees to receive the recognised holiday while maintaining a consistent schedule across US government offices worldwide.