Americans are already anticipating the next long weekend as the year unfolds, and understanding the full list of 2026 US federal holidays is key to planning. While federal holidays are officially recognized, whether private employers offer these days off or provide additional pay is a matter of company policy. This guide breaks down the important dates for the upcoming year, helping you stay informed about when many Americans will have a break from their regular work schedules.
New Year’s Day, falling on Thursday, January 1, marks the first federal holiday of 2026. Following this, the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. is observed on Monday, January 19, providing a long weekend early in the year. These early holidays offer opportunities for rest and reflection after the busy holiday season.
Presidents’ Day, celebrated on Monday, February 16, is another federal holiday that allows many to enjoy a three-day weekend. This day honors all past presidents of the United States and is a significant date in the American calendar.
Memorial Day, observed on Monday, May 25, is a solemn occasion to remember those who have died while serving in the US armed forces. It also unofficially marks the beginning of summer for many, offering a welcome break.
Featured snippet paragraph: The full list of 2026 US federal holidays includes New Year’s Day (Jan 1), Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Jan 19), Presidents’ Day (Feb 16), Memorial Day (May 25), Juneteenth (June 19), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (Sept 7), Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Oct 12), Veterans Day (Nov 11), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26), and Christmas Day (Dec 25).
Juneteenth National Independence Day, on Friday, June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. This holiday has gained increasing recognition and importance in recent years.
Independence Day, a major national celebration, falls on Saturday, July 4, in 2026. While it’s a weekend day, many will still observe it with festivities.
Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September, which is September 7 in 2026, is a federal holiday that honors the American labor movement and its contributions.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day, also observed as Columbus Day, is on Monday, October 12. This day recognizes the history and cultures of Native Americans.
Veterans Day, on Wednesday, November 11, is dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Thanksgiving Day, a traditional feast day, is celebrated on Thursday, November 26, 2026. It’s a time for gratitude and gathering with loved ones.
Christmas Day, observed on Friday, December 25, marks the end of the year’s federal holidays. It’s a widely celebrated religious and cultural holiday.
Beyond the official federal holidays, several other important dates in 2026 are worth noting for planning personal events or recognizing significant observances. Valentine’s Day falls on Saturday, February 14, offering a mid-week celebration of love. St. Patrick’s Day is on Tuesday, March 17, a day of Irish culture and celebration.
April Fools’ Day on Wednesday, April 1, brings a touch of humor to the start of the month. Important religious observances include the First Day of Passover on Wednesday, April 1, Good Friday on Friday, April 3, and Easter Sunday on April 5, all falling close together in early spring.
Mother’s Day is on Sunday, May 10, and Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 21, providing dedicated days to honor parents. Halloween on Saturday, October 31, is a popular occasion for costumes and trick-or-treating.
Towards the end of the year, the First Day of Hanukkah begins on Friday, December 4. Important days leading up to Christmas include Christmas Eve on Thursday, December 24, and New Year’s Eve on Thursday, December 31, both falling on a Thursday in 2026, allowing for extended celebrations.
