Federal Holidays 2026: Complete Guide to US Public Holidays and Observances
There are 11 federal holidays in 2026. Notable dates include Independence Day (observed July 3) and Thanksgiving (November 26). Below is the complete 2026 federal holiday schedule with planning tips, long weekend opportunities, and payroll considerations.
Quick Reference: 2026 Long Weekend Opportunities
Want to maximize your time off? Here’s your quick guide to the best long weekends in 2026:
| Holiday | Dates | Days Off | PTO Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s | Jan 1–4 (Thu–Sun) | 4 Days | Already a long weekend |
| MLK Jr. Day | Jan 17–19 (Sat–Mon) | 3 Days | No PTO needed |
| Presidents’ Day | Feb 14–16 (Sat–Mon) | 3 Days | No PTO needed |
| Memorial Day | May 23–31 | 9 Days | Take 4 PTO days (Tue–Fri) |
| Juneteenth | June 19–21 (Fri–Sun) | 3 Days | No PTO needed |
| Independence Day | July 3–5 (Fri–Sun) | 3 Days | No PTO needed |
| Labor Day | Sept 5–7 (Sat–Mon) | 3 Days | No PTO needed |
| Thanksgiving | Nov 26–29 (Thu–Sun) | 4 Days | Already a long weekend |
| Christmas | Dec 25–27 (Fri–Sun) | 3 Days | No PTO needed |
💡 Pro Tip: The Memorial Day strategy gives you 9 consecutive days off while using only 4 vacation days!The United States government designates specific days throughout the year when federal offices close, banks suspend operations, and millions of Americans get a well-deserved day off. In 2026, these 2026 public holidays fall on various days of the week, creating opportunities for extended weekends and family time.
Complete List of Federal Holidays 2026
In 2026, Americans will celebrate 11 official federal holidays. Here’s your complete calendar of federal holidays 2026:
| Date | Holiday | Day of Week | Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year’s Day | Thursday | January 2026 |
| January 19 | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Monday | January 2026 |
| February 16 | Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day) | Monday | February 2026 |
| May 25 | Memorial Day | Monday | May 2026 |
| June 19 | Juneteenth National Independence Day | Friday | June 2026 |
| July 3 | Independence Day (Observed) | Friday | July 2026 |
| July 4 | Independence Day | Saturday | July 2026 |
| September 7 | Labor Day | Monday | September 2026 |
| October 12 | Columbus Day | Monday | October 2026 |
| November 11 | Veterans Day | Wednesday | November 2026 |
| November 26 | Thanksgiving Day | Thursday | November 2026 |
| December 25 | Christmas Day | Friday | December 2026 |
📥 Download Printable 2026 Federal Holiday Calendar PDF (High-resolution calendar for printing and sharing)
Alt-text for image: “Printable 2026 Federal Holiday Calendar PDF with all 11 US government observed days”
Definition & Rules: Who Gets Federal Holidays Off?
Federal holidays are public holidays established by the United States government for federal employees and the District of Columbia. Understanding who actually receives time off on these government observed days 2026 is crucial for planning.
Who Gets Federal Holidays Off:
- Federal government employees (approximately 2 million civilian workers)
- Federal Reserve employees and most banking personnel
- U.S. Postal Service workers (no mail delivery)
- Many private-sector employees (at employer’s discretion)
Who May Still Work:
- Essential federal personnel (TSA, border security, emergency services)
- Private-sector employees (retail, hospitality, healthcare)
- State and local government workers (varies by jurisdiction)
While federal agencies and offices must close on these U.S. bank holidays 2026, private employers are not legally required to give their employees time off. However, many businesses and organizations choose to observe these holidays, making them de facto national holidays.
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) officially designates these holidays each year, ensuring consistency across all federal operations.
Monthly Breakdown of the 2026 Federal Holiday Calendar
Winter Federal Holidays
January 2026 kicks off the year with two federal holidays:
- New Year’s Day (January 1): Celebrated on Thursday, marking the beginning of the 2026 calendar year
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 19): Observed on the third Monday, honoring the civil rights leader’s birthday and legacy
February 2026 features:
- Presidents’ Day (February 16): Officially called Washington’s Birthday, this third Monday holiday honors all U.S. presidents
Spring Federal Holidays
May 2026 concludes spring with:
- Memorial Day (May 25): The last Monday in May honors military personnel who died in service to the country
Summer Federal Holidays
June 2026 brings:
- Juneteenth (June 19): Falling on Friday, this newer federal holiday commemorates the end of slavery in the United States
July 2026 features America’s signature celebration:
- Independence Day (July 4): Falls on Saturday in 2026
- Independence Day Observed (July 3): Federal employees get Friday off, creating a three-day weekend
Fall Federal Holidays
September 2026 includes:
- Labor Day (September 7): The first Monday celebrates American workers and traditionally marks summer’s end
October 2026 recognizes:
- Columbus Day (October 12): The second Monday honors Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas (also recognized as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in many states)
November 2026 is packed with observances:
- Veterans Day (November 11): Falls on Wednesday, honoring all military veterans
- Thanksgiving Day (November 26): The fourth Thursday brings families together for this traditional harvest celebration
Winter Federal Holidays
December 2026 closes the year with:
- Christmas Day (December 25): Celebrated on Friday, providing another long weekend opportunity
Months Without Federal Holidays in 2026
Notably, three months in 2026 have no federal holidays:
- March 2026: No federal observances
- April 2026: Despite Easter falling in April, it’s not a federal holiday
- August 2026: The only summer month without a federal holiday
According to USA Today’s holiday calendar analysis, these gaps can impact vacation planning and payroll scheduling for many organizations.
The 2026 Long Weekend Travel Hacker Guide
Smart travelers know that strategic PTO (Paid Time Off) usage around federal holidays 2026 can maximize vacation time. Here’s how to turn 11 federal holidays into extended getaways:
Memorial Day Super-Vacation (9 Days Off, 4 PTO Days)
- Strategy: Take PTO Tuesday, May 26 through Friday, May 29
- Result: Saturday, May 23 through Sunday, May 31 = 9 consecutive days
- Best for: International trips, cross-country road trips, or extended family visits
- Savings: 56% more vacation time (9 days for the price of 4)
Fourth of July Extended Weekend (10 Days Off, 5 PTO Days)
- Strategy: Take PTO Monday, June 29 through Wednesday, July 1 (before the holiday) OR Monday, July 6 through Friday, July 10 (after)
- Result: 10 consecutive days off
- Best for: Summer beach vacations, national park tours, or overseas adventure travel
Thanksgiving Week (9 Days Off, 3 PTO Days)
- Strategy: Take PTO Friday, November 27 through Tuesday, December 1 (the week after Thanksgiving)
- Result: Saturday, November 21 through Sunday, November 29 = 9 days
- Best for: Visiting distant family, warm-weather escapes, or avoiding Black Friday crowds
Christmas-New Year Mega-Break (11 Days Off, 4 PTO Days)
- Strategy: Take PTO Monday, December 28 through Thursday, December 31
- Result: Friday, December 25, 2026 through Sunday, January 3, 2027 = 11 days
- Best for: Ski trips, tropical getaways, or international holiday celebrations
Three-Day Weekend Destinations
For the six three-day weekends in 2026 (MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Columbus Day), consider:
- Domestic short-haul: 2-3 hour flights to major cities
- Road trips: 4-6 hour drives to national parks or coastal areas
- Weekend getaways: Nearby states or regional attractions
Pro Travel Hacker Tip: Book flights and hotels 2-3 months in advance around federal holidays to secure better rates and avoid the “holiday premium” surge pricing.
Banking Holidays vs. Federal Holidays 2026
Understanding the difference between federal holidays and banking holidays is critical for payroll managers, businesses, and anyone expecting financial transactions. Here’s what closes when:
| Date | Federal Holiday | Banks Closed | Stock Market Closed | Federal Reserve Closed | USPS Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | ✅ New Year’s Day | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| January 19 | ✅ MLK Jr. Day | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| February 16 | ✅ Presidents’ Day | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| May 25 | ✅ Memorial Day | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| June 19 | ✅ Juneteenth | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| July 3 | ✅ Independence Day (Obs.) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| September 7 | ✅ Labor Day | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| October 12 | ✅ Columbus Day | ⚠️ Varies* | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| November 11 | ✅ Veterans Day | ⚠️ Varies* | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| November 26 | ✅ Thanksgiving | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| December 25 | ✅ Christmas | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Important Notes:
- * Columbus Day and Veterans Day: Not all banks close on these days. The Federal Reserve recognizes them, but individual banks may choose to remain open.
- Stock Market: NYSE and NASDAQ follow their own calendar and are OPEN on Columbus Day and Veterans Day.
- ACH Transactions: No ACH processing on any Federal Reserve holiday
- Wire Transfers: Fedwire closes on all Federal Reserve holidays
For official Federal Reserve holiday schedules, visit the Federal Reserve Banks Operating Schedule.
Business Planning Tip: Schedule payroll processing 1-2 business days before banking holidays to ensure employees receive payments on time.
State-Specific Holiday Variations
While this guide focuses on federal holidays 2026, many states observe additional holidays or substitute certain federal holidays with state-specific observances. Understanding these variations is crucial for multi-state employers and travelers.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day vs. Columbus Day
States Observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day Instead of Columbus Day (2026):
- Alaska, California, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin
- Major cities: Austin, Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, Phoenix, and 100+ municipalities
Good Friday as a State Holiday
12 States That Recognize Good Friday as an Official State Holiday:
- Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Tennessee, Texas (partial state holiday), and Wisconsin (partial)
- Good Friday 2026: April 3, 2026
- Note: This is NOT a federal holiday, so federal offices remain open
Other Notable State Holidays in 2026
- Confederate Memorial Day: Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina (various dates in April)
- Patriots’ Day: Maine and Massachusetts (third Monday in April)
- Cesar Chavez Day: California (March 31)
- Texas Independence Day: Texas (March 2)
For Employers: If you operate in multiple states, consult each state’s official government website (USA.gov States Directory) to ensure compliance with state-specific holiday observances.
Months Without Federal Holidays in 2026
Special Observance: Independence Day 2026
When a federal holiday falls on a weekend, the government establishes an observed date for federal employees. In 2026, Independence Day falls on Saturday, July 4th. According to OPM guidelines, when a holiday falls on Saturday, the preceding Friday becomes the observed holiday for federal workers.
This means Friday, July 3, 2026, becomes the official observed holiday for federal employees, creating an extended weekend from July 3-5. This arrangement benefits federal workers while allowing the public celebration to continue on its traditional July 4th date.
How Federal Holidays 2026 Affect Various Sectors
Federal Employees
All federal government offices close on these 11 days, affecting approximately 2 million civilian federal employees. Pay continues for salaried employees, while the U.S. Office of Personnel Management provides specific guidance for hourly workers.
Banking and Financial Services
Federal Reserve Banks close on all federal holidays 2026, affecting:
- Check processing and clearance
- Wire transfers (Fedwire)
- ACH transactions
- Stock market operations (NYSE and NASDAQ)
Postal Service
The United States Postal Service suspends regular mail delivery on federal holidays, though some package delivery may continue depending on service agreements.
Private Sector
While not required to observe federal holidays 2026, many private employers offer these days off as part of employee benefits packages. Retail, hospitality, and service industries often remain open with modified schedules.
Planning Around Federal Holidays 2026
Long Weekend Opportunities
Federal holidays 2026 offers several excellent long weekend opportunities:
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day Weekend: January 17-19 (Saturday-Monday)
- Presidents’ Day Weekend: February 14-16 (Saturday-Monday)
- Memorial Day Weekend: May 23-25 (Saturday-Monday)
- Juneteenth Weekend: June 19-21 (Friday-Sunday)
- Independence Day Weekend: July 3-5 (Friday-Sunday)
- Labor Day Weekend: September 5-7 (Saturday-Monday)
- Columbus Day Weekend: October 10-12 (Saturday-Monday)
- Thanksgiving Weekend: November 26-29 (Thursday-Sunday)
- Christmas Weekend: December 25-27 (Friday-Sunday)
Strategic Vacation Planning
By strategically using personal vacation days around federal holidays 2026, employees can maximize their time off. For instance, taking off the week between Christmas and New Year’s would only require three vacation days while providing nine consecutive days off.
State vs. Federal Holidays
It’s important to note that individual states may observe additional holidays not recognized at the federal level. For example:
- Good Friday: Observed in some states but not a federal holiday
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Replaces Columbus Day in several states
- State-specific holidays: Such as Patriots’ Day in Massachusetts and Maine
Check your state’s official government website for specific state holiday observances.
Historical Context of Federal Holidays
Congress has the authority to establish federal holidays under the Constitution. The first federal holidays were established in 1870, initially including only New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Over time, additional holidays were added:
- 1870: Original four holidays established
- 1880s: Washington’s Birthday and Memorial Day added
- 1894: Labor Day added
- 1938: Columbus Day designated
- 1983: Martin Luther King Jr. Day established
- 2021: Juneteenth became the newest federal holiday
This evolution reflects changing American values and the recognition of historically significant events and figures.
Payroll & HR Management: Critical Deadlines
HR professionals and payroll managers must carefully track federal holidays 2026 to ensure compliance, accurate pay calculations, and smooth operations. Here’s your essential checklist:
Payroll Processing Deadlines Around Federal Holidays
Key Rules for Payroll Managers:
- Two-Day Advance Rule: Submit payroll at least 2 business days before a banking holiday
- Direct Deposit Timing: ACH files must clear before Federal Reserve closures
- Manual Check Distribution: Plan for early distribution if payday falls on a holiday
2026 Critical Payroll Dates:
| Holiday | Date | Recommended Payroll Submission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 (Thu) | December 29, 2025 (Mon) | Plan before year-end |
| Memorial Day | May 25 (Mon) | May 21 (Thu) | 3-day weekend |
| Independence Day | July 3 (Fri) | June 30 (Tue) | Observed Friday |
| Labor Day | September 7 (Mon) | September 3 (Thu) | 3-day weekend |
| Thanksgiving | November 26 (Thu) | November 23 (Mon) | 4-day weekend for many |
| Christmas | December 25 (Fri) | December 22 (Tue) | Year-end processing |
Holiday Pay Calculations
For Non-Exempt (Hourly) Employees:
- Federal law does NOT require premium pay for federal holidays
- Many employers offer 1.5x or 2x pay for holiday work (company policy)
- If hourly employees don’t work, they typically don’t get paid (unless company provides holiday pay)
For Exempt (Salaried) Employees:
- Must receive full salary regardless of federal holidays
- Deductions for partial-day absences are generally not permitted
Overtime Considerations:
- Work on a federal holiday does NOT automatically trigger overtime
- Overtime applies only when employees exceed 40 hours/week (FLSA standard)
- Some union contracts and government positions have special holiday overtime rules
Time Off Accrual and Management
Best Practices for 2026:
- Blackout Dates: Many companies restrict PTO around major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas)
- Use-It-Or-Lose-It Policies: Remind employees of year-end deadlines
- Floating Holidays: Some employers offer 1-2 floating holidays in lieu of Columbus Day or other federal observances
HR Compliance Checklist:
- Update HRIS system with 2026 federal holiday calendar
- Communicate holiday schedule to all employees by December 2025
- Review state-specific holiday requirements for multi-state operations
- Confirm holiday pay policies with payroll team
- Set up automated payroll reminders for banking holiday deadlines
- Plan coverage schedules for essential personnel
For detailed federal employee leave policies, consult the OPM Leave Administration Guidelines.
Impact on Technology Systems and Business Operations
In our digital age, federal holidays 2026 affect technology systems including:
- Automated payment systems: ACH and wire transfer delays
- Payroll processing: Advanced scheduling needed for holiday weeks
- Customer service: Adjusted hours or automated responses
- Government websites: Limited or no updates on federal holidays
Businesses should plan accordingly to avoid disruptions during these closures.
FAQ About Federal Holidays 2026
When are the federal holidays in 2026?
The 11 federal holidays in 2026 are: New Year’s Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 19), Presidents’ Day (February 16), Memorial Day (May 25), Juneteenth (June 19), Independence Day (July 4, observed July 3), Labor Day (September 7), Columbus Day (October 12), Veterans Day (November 11), Thanksgiving (November 26), and Christmas Day (December 25).
How many federal holidays are there in 2026?
There are 11 federal holidays in 2026, which is the standard number of federal holidays observed annually in the United States.
Why is Independence Day observed on July 3 in 2026?
Since Independence Day falls on Saturday, July 4, 2026, federal employees observe the holiday on Friday, July 3, 2026, according to OPM regulations. When a federal holiday falls on Saturday, it’s observed the preceding Friday for federal workers.
Which months have no federal holidays in 2026?
March, April, and August 2026 have no federal holidays. These three months are the only ones without any federal observances throughout the year.
Are private employers required to give federal holidays off?
No, private employers are not legally required to observe federal holidays 2026 or provide paid time off for these days. However, many companies choose to offer these as part of their employee benefits package.
Do banks close on all federal holidays in 2026?
Yes, banks typically close on all federal holidays because the Federal Reserve observes these dates. This affects check processing, wire transfers, and other banking services.
Is Juneteenth a paid federal holiday in 2026?
Yes, Juneteenth (June 19) is a paid federal holiday. It became the newest federal holiday in 2021 and will be observed on Friday, June 19, 2026.
How do federal holidays affect the stock market?
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ close on most federal holidays. In 2026, stock markets will be closed on all federal holidays, affecting trading and settlement activities.
Can federal employees choose not to observe federal holidays?
Federal employees cannot typically choose to work instead of taking federal holidays off, as federal offices are closed. However, essential personnel in certain agencies may be required to work with appropriate compensation.
Is Inauguration Day a federal holiday in 2026?
No, Inauguration Day is NOT a federal holiday in 2026. Presidential inaugurations occur every four years (2025, 2029, 2033, etc.). The next Inauguration Day will be January 20, 2029. Inauguration Day is only a federal holiday in the Washington D.C. area when it falls on a regular inauguration year.
What happens if I have a federal appointment on a federal holiday?
Federal offices are closed on federal holidays 2026, so appointments would need to be rescheduled. It’s advisable to check the federal holiday calendar when scheduling appointments with federal agencies.
Understanding federal holidays 2026 is crucial for effective planning, whether you’re coordinating business operations, scheduling vacations, or managing payroll deadlines. With 11 designated 2026 public holidays spread throughout the 2026 calendar, Americans have ample opportunities for rest, celebration, and remembrance.
From New Year’s Day in January through Christmas in December, these U.S. bank holidays 2026 provide structure to the American year, honoring historical events, recognizing influential leaders, and celebrating the values that define the nation. By understanding when the next federal holiday 2026 occurs and how government observed days 2026 affect banking, payroll, and travel, you can maximize your time off and plan more effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- 11 federal holidays in 2026, with Independence Day observed on Friday, July 3
- Best long weekend opportunities: Memorial Day (9 days with 4 PTO) and Christmas-New Year (11 days with 4 PTO)
- Banking closures affect payroll processing on all major federal holidays
- State variations exist, particularly for Columbus Day (Indigenous Peoples’ Day) and Good Friday
- Payroll managers: Submit payments 2 days before banking holidays
Mark your calendars, plan your long weekends, and make the most of these designated days off.
For the most current information about federal holidays and any potential changes, always refer to:
- Official OPM Federal Holidays – Authoritative source for federal employee guidance
- Federal Reserve Holiday Schedule – Official banking and payment system closures
