As Americans plan their calendars for the coming year, public holidays play a crucial role in organizing vacations, family gatherings, and community events.
In 2025, the federal holiday schedule includes a mix of historic celebrations, cultural observances, and opportunities for rest and reflection.
Here's the full list of federal holidays for 2025, along with their dates and significance:
Full List of US Federal Holidays in 2025
New Year's Day – Wednesday, January 1. A time to celebrate new beginnings and welcome the new year alone or with friends and family.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Always the third Monday of January, honoring the civil rights leader's legacy of equality, justice, and nonviolence—January 20.
Presidents' Day – The third Monday in February will always be President's Day; this year falling on February 17. A tribute to the achievements of all U.S. presidents, with a special focus on George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
Memorial Day – Always the last Monday in May, this year's date is May 26—a solemn occasion to remember and honor military personnel who died in service to the country.
Juneteenth National Independence Day – Thursday, June 19. Commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, marking the day in 1865 when freedom was proclaimed in Texas.
Independence Day – Friday, July 4. A celebration of the nation's founding and independence, marked by parades, fireworks, and patriotic festivities.
Labor Day – Always the first Monday of the month, this year's date is September 1, recognizing the contributions of American workers and the labor movement.
Columbus Day (or Indigenous Peoples' Day) – Initially celebrated on October 12, it was moved to the second Monday in October to give workers a long holiday weekend. This year's observance day will be Monday, October 13. A day of mixed observance, celebrating Christopher Columbus's voyages and Indigenous cultures and histories.
Veterans Day – Tuesday, November 11. Honoring all U.S. military veterans for their service and sacrifice.
Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 27. A day to give thanks for blessings and gather with loved ones over a traditional feast.
Christmas Day – Thursday, December 25. Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, a time of joy, giving, and togetherness.
Highlights for 2025
- Long Weekends: Many holidays, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day, always fall on Mondays, creating opportunities for extended weekends.
- Summer Celebrations: Independence Day in 2025 lands on a Friday, giving families a chance to enjoy a three-day weekend for summer festivities.
- Midweek Breaks: Holidays like New Year's Day, Juneteenth, and Veterans Day offer midweek pauses, which can be used for shorter getaways or personal downtime.
Why are so many holidays on Mondays?
Back in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Bill, which mandated that a number of federal holidays be moved to Mondays. The change was designed so workers had a number of long weekends throughout the year, but it has been opposed by those who believe that those holidays should be celebrated on the dates they actually commemorate.
Plan Ahead
Federal holidays often mean closures for government offices, banks, and schools, though not all businesses follow the federal schedule. Planning ahead for travel, shopping, and appointments is recommended, especially during peak holiday periods.
Whether you're planning a quiet staycation or a festive family gathering, the 2025 holiday calendar offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate, reflect, and recharge.
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