Federal Holidays
What are Federal Holidays?
Federal holidays are designated days off each year recognized by the federal government. On these days, non-essential government agencies are closed and employees can enjoy this time off. Organizations such as banks, post offices, and schools typically close on these holidays.
Private establishments often choose to provide all federal holidays as paid or unpaid time off for their employees, but they aren’t legally required to do so. In industries where closing down for a day may not be possible (like healthcare or hospitality), organizations may offer alternative benefits like premium pay for working on a holiday.
How Many Federal Holidays Are There in the US?
Currently, there are 11 recognized federal holidays in the United States.
These holidays hold special significance and are observed nationwide. However, it’s important to note that federal holidays can evolve, and more may be added. Creating a federal holiday is a dynamic process that responds to society’s changing needs and values.
For example, in 2021, Juneteenth became the newest federal holiday, celebrating the end of slavery in the United States.
2025 Federal Holidays: How Many Federal Holidays Are There?
The 11 federal holidays and their corresponding dates in order by month are:
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 20)
- Washington’s Birthday (February 17)
- Memorial Day (May 26)
- Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (September 1)
- Columbus Day (October 13)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (November 27)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
In addition to the 11 federal holidays, the government also recognizes Presidential Inauguration Day on January 20 (or the 21st if the 20th is a Sunday). It’s held every four years as a paid federal holiday for government employees in Washington, D.C.
What Happens When a Federal Holiday Falls on a Weekend?
If a federal holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, government employees are still entitled to a holiday during the regular workweek. All federal holidays that land on weekends have an “observed” date immediately before or after the holiday. For example, if Independence Day lands on a Saturday, employees have a paid holiday on the Friday before—if it lands on a Sunday, they get an “in lieu of” holiday on the Monday after.
What Is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a federal holiday celebrated on June 19 each year in the United States. It marks the day enslaved African Americans in Texas were officially informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
The origins of Juneteenth can be traced back to June 19, 1865, when General Granger read General Order No. 3 in Galveston, Texas, announcing the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the state. As word spread, African American communities rejoiced, marking the date as a milestone in their fight for freedom.
The journey to Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday took many years of advocacy and recognition. In 1980, Texas officially recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday. Over the next several decades, 40 more states recognized the holiday. In 2021, June 19 was officially designated a federal holiday.
Is Columbus Day a Federal Holiday?
Yes, Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States, but it’s one of the most inconsistently recognized. It’s observed on the second Monday in October each year and has traditionally been a day to honor the achievements of Christopher Columbus—the Italian explorer who is often credited with discovering America.
However, many people celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day on this date instead, arguing that Columbus is not an appropriate person to celebrate, having brought tragedy for the native peoples of the Americas. This movement seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of the Native Americans and Indigenous Peoples living in the Americas when Columbus arrived.
Many cities and states have decided to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day. October 11, 2021 was declared Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
What is the Difference Between Federal Holidays and National Holidays?
A federal holiday is a public paid holiday established by federal law. These are holidays that the federal government officially recognizes by closing its offices and giving employees the day off.
A national holiday is celebrated across the entire nation—often to reflect on a historical or cultural event. Though the terms are frequently used interchangeably, the United States does not have any national or public holidays. Congress only has the constitutional authority to designate holidays for federal institutions, not the entire nation.