One of the favorite things for many of us is planning a vacation. Nothing is better than a well-planned calendar with flight info and dinner reservations. But first, you need to know when exactly to do it, public holidays in the United States differ according to state and jurisdiction. However, certain federal official holidays are observed nationally. The following is a list of federal public holidays in USA for the year 2019:
| Day | Date | Holiday |
| Tuesday | January 1 | New Year’s Day |
| Monday | January 21 | Martin Luther King Day |
| Tuesday | February 12 | Lincoln’s Birthday |
| Monday | February 18 | President’s Day |
| Monday | May 27 | Memorial Day |
| Thursday | July 4 | Independence Day |
| Monday | September 2 | Labor Day |
| Monday | October 14 | Columbus Day |
| Tuesday | November 5 | Election Day |
| Thursday | November 28 | Thanksgiving |
| Wednesday | December 25 | Christmas |
Please keep in mind that some holidays, especially if they fall on a weekend, may be commemorated on various dates. Furthermore, various states and areas may have their own holidays or variants on these federal holidays.
It is always a good idea to check with local government websites or companies for the most up-to-date holiday information.
If a public holidays in USA falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday is a day off and if a holiday falls on a Sunday the following Monday is a holiday.
And as for state holidays, they are holidays for the government and public sector in that state, and many. Not all private businesses will give employees the day off.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – U.S. Public Holidays
What are federal public holidays in the United States?
Federal public holidays are nationally recognized days when most non-essential federal government offices are closed. In 2019, there were 11 such holidays, including New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Do all states observe the same public holidays?
No. While federal holidays are generally recognized across all states, each state may also have additional holidays or local observances. For example, Lincoln’s Birthday and Election Day may be recognized in some states but not in others.
What happens when a public holiday falls on a weekend?
If a public holiday falls on a Saturday, the holiday is usually observed on the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, it is typically observed on the following Monday.
Are state holidays observed by private companies?
Not always. State holidays primarily apply to government and public sector workers within that state. Some private businesses may choose to give employees the day off, but it is not mandatory unless required by state law or company policy.
How can I find the most accurate holiday schedule for my location?
To ensure accuracy, it’s best to check official state or local government websites or your employer’s HR department for the most current information on public holidays and business closures.
Why is it important to know the holiday calendar before planning a vacation?
Knowing the holiday calendar helps avoid scheduling conflicts, ensures availability for travel bookings, and allows you to make the most of long weekends and time off with minimal disruption to work obligations.
Conclusion
Understanding the U.S. public holiday calendar is essential not just for planning vacations, but also for managing work schedules, business operations, and personal commitments. While federal holidays offer a consistent framework, state-specific observances and variations can impact availability and closures in different regions. By staying informed and checking local resources, you can make the most of your time off, avoid scheduling surprises, and enjoy well-planned, stress-free holidays throughout the year.