Long weekends in Arkansas offer the perfect chance to unwind and escape from work stress. Whether you’re planning a short trip with family or friends or simply looking for time to relax, these breaks help you recharge and return to work refreshed and focused.
In this article, we provide a complete guide to Arkansas long weekends in 2026, helping you plan your vacations and time off in advance.
Arkansas Long Weekends in 2026
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New Year’s Day: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, to Thursday, January 1, 2026
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Saturday, January 17 to Monday, January 19, 2026
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Presidents’ Day (George Washington’s Birthday): Saturday, February 14 to Monday, February 16, 2026
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Memorial Day: Saturday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, 2026
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Independence Day: Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5, 2026
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Labor Day: Saturday, September 5 to Monday, September 7, 2026
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Veterans Day: Wednesday, November 11 (possible long weekend if combined with adjacent days)
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Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 26 to Sunday, November 29, 2026
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Christmas & New Year Holidays: Thursday, December 24 to Sunday, December 27, 2026
New Year’s Day: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 – Thursday, January 1, 2026
The New Year’s holiday offers a mid week celebration, and with some planned leave, you can turn it into a long weekend. Taking Friday, January 2, 2026, off will give you a four day break to welcome the new year in style.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Saturday, January 17 – Monday, January 19, 2026
Arkansas residents can enjoy a three-day weekend for Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2026. The observance on Monday, January 19, honors Dr. King’s legacy and promotes equality, justice, and service across the nation.
Presidents’ Day (George Washington’s Birthday): Saturday, February 14 – Monday, February 16, 2026
This long weekend combines Valentine’s Day with Presidents’ Day, making it a great opportunity for a romantic getaway or a short family trip. The federal holiday on Monday, February 16, commemorates George Washington’s birthday and honors all U.S. presidents.
Memorial Day: Saturday, May 23 – Monday, May 25, 2026
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. Many Arkansans take advantage of this three day break to enjoy outdoor activities, lake trips, or barbecues while honoring the memory of fallen military heroes.
Independence Day: Friday, July 3 – Sunday, July 5, 2026
In 2026, Independence Day falls on a Saturday, but the federal holiday will be observed on Friday, July 3. This creates a perfect three day long weekend to celebrate America’s birthday with fireworks, picnics, and family gatherings.
Labor Day: Saturday, September 5 – Monday, September 7, 2026
Labor Day weekend offers one last summer escape before fall begins. Whether you plan a road trip or a quiet staycation, this three day weekend provides a well deserved rest to celebrate the contributions of American workers.
Veterans Day: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Veterans Day falls midweek in 2026, but with strategic planning, it can become a long weekend. By taking Thursday, November 12, and Friday, November 13, off, you can enjoy a five-day break to honor those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 26 – Sunday, November 29, 2026
Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most beloved holidays in Arkansas. The four day break provides time to gather with family, share gratitude, and enjoy the festive season. Consider extending your time off by taking Monday, November 30, for a five day mini vacation.
Christmas & New Year Holidays: Thursday, December 24 – Sunday, December 27, 2026
The Christmas holiday weekend in 2026 begins on Thursday, December 24, and continues through Sunday, December 27. Many workplaces also close for part of the following week, making it easy to combine with New Year’s celebrations for an extended holiday season.
Conclusion
Arkansas long weekends in 2026 present the perfect opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. From winter celebrations to summer adventures, each break offers a chance to recharge and make lasting memories.
Whether you spend your days off hiking the Ozarks, visiting Hot Springs, or simply enjoying a cozy weekend at home, planning ahead ensures you make the most of your Arkansas long weekends in 2026.