Public Holidays in United States 2026 – Federal & Public Holidays
United States observes a wide range of federal, state, and cultural public holidays each year. Federal holidays are recognized nationwide for government offices, while state and cultural observances vary across regions, reflecting the country’s diversity and traditions. These holidays also provide excellent opportunities for domestic travel and short breaks across the country.
Also Explore: Public Holidays in United Kingdom
Overview of Public Holidays in the United States
Public holidays in the U.S. are designated at both the federal and state levels. Federal holidays apply to government institutions nationwide, while states may add regional holidays reflecting local heritage or history. In addition, many cultural and observance days—although not statutory holidays—are widely celebrated and influence travel, business hours, and school schedules.
During long weekends and national holidays, many Americans choose to travel domestically. Popular ideas include exploring top places to visit in the United States or booking short stays at the best hotels across the U.S..
Federal Holidays in the United States (2026)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | First day of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| January 19 | Monday | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Observed on the third Monday of January. |
| February 16 | Monday | Presidents’ Day | Third Monday of February; honors U.S. presidents. |
| May 25 | Monday | Memorial Day | Last Monday of May; honors fallen military personnel. |
| June 19 | Friday | Juneteenth National Independence Day | Marks the end of slavery in the United States. |
| July 4 | Saturday | Independence Day | Observed on Friday, July 3, for federal employees. |
| September 7 | Monday | Labor Day | First Monday of September. |
| October 12 | Monday | Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Observed federally; naming varies by state. |
| November 11 | Wednesday | Veterans Day | Honors U.S. military veterans. |
| November 26 | Thursday | Thanksgiving Day | Fourth Thursday of November. |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. |
Federal holidays in 2026 may be officially observed on adjacent weekdays when they fall on weekends, affecting government offices, banks, and travel demand.
Federal Holidays in the United States (2025)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | First day of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| January 20 | Monday | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Honors the civil rights leader. |
| February 17 | Monday | Presidents’ Day | Third Monday of February. |
| May 26 | Monday | Memorial Day | Last Monday in May. |
| June 19 | Thursday | Juneteenth | National Independence Day. |
| July 4 | Friday | Independence Day | Declaration of Independence. |
| September 1 | Monday | Labor Day | First Monday of September. |
| October 13 | Monday | Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Federal observance. |
| November 11 | Tuesday | Veterans Day | Honors military veterans. |
| November 27 | Thursday | Thanksgiving Day | Fourth Thursday in November. |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Christian religious holiday. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many federal holidays are there in the United States in 2026?
There are 11 federal holidays in the United States in 2026, observed nationwide by federal institutions.
Are U.S. federal holidays observed on weekdays if they fall on weekends?
Yes. If a federal holiday falls on a Saturday, it is typically observed on Friday; if it falls on a Sunday, it is observed on Monday.
Is Juneteenth a permanent federal holiday?
Yes. Juneteenth National Independence Day became a permanent federal holiday in 2021 and continues in 2026 and beyond.
Do private companies have to close on federal holidays?
No. Federal holidays apply to government offices. Private employers determine their own holiday policies.
Is Election Day a public holiday?
Election Day is not a federal holiday, but some states provide paid leave or treat it as a state holiday for public employees.
Conclusion
Public holidays in the United States reflect a balance of national history, civic values, and cultural diversity. Planning ahead for the 2026 and remaining 2025 holidays can help travelers, workers, and businesses optimize schedules, travel plans, and long-weekend opportunities.
