How Public Holidays Work in United States
Federal holidays in the United States are established for federal employees. Private employers are not required to observe these holidays or provide paid time off, though many do as part of competitive benefits packages.
United States Holidays 2026
| Date | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31 | New Year's Day | National |
| Jan 18 | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | National |
| May 24 | Memorial Day | National |
| Jun 18 | Juneteenth National Independence Day | National |
| Jul 3 | Independence Day | National |
| Sep 6 | Labor Day | National |
| Nov 10 | Veterans Day | National |
| Nov 25 | Thanksgiving Day | National |
| Dec 24 | Christmas Day | National |
- 11 federal holidays recognized nationwide for federal employees. Private sector observance is voluntary and determined by employer policy.
- States and localities may have additional holidays. Some states observe regional holidays like Patriots' Day (Massachusetts), Cesar Chavez Day (California), or Juneteenth variations.
- When a federal holiday falls on a weekend, it is typically observed on the nearest weekday (Friday if Saturday, Monday if Sunday) for federal employees.
At a Glance: Common Holidays
Independence Day
JUL 4
Celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Widely observed with fireworks, parades, and barbecues.
Thanksgiving
4TH THU IN NOV
Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. A major holiday for family gatherings and the traditional start of the holiday shopping season.
Memorial Day
LAST MON IN MAY
Observed on the last Monday of May. Honors military personnel who died in service. Marks the unofficial start of summer.
Impact on Payroll & Leave
Payroll practices for holidays and leave in the United States are largely determined by employer policy and state law, with minimal federal requirements.
Are employers required to pay employees for federal holidays?
No. Private employers are not required by federal law to provide paid time off for holidays. This is determined by employer policy.
Can employers implement use-it-or-lose-it vacation policies?
Generally yes, but some states (like California) treat accrued vacation as earned wages that must be paid out. State law varies.
Is paid sick leave required by federal law?
No federal requirement exists. However, several states and cities have enacted mandatory paid sick leave laws that employers must follow.