Discover the complete list of U.S. federal holidays for 2025, including dates, historical significance, and observances. Plan your year ahead!
List of Federal Holidays in 2025
- New Year’s Day: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 20, 2025
- Inauguration Day: Monday, January 20, 2025
- Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day): Monday, February 17, 2025
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 2025
- Juneteenth National Independence Day: Thursday, June 19, 2025
- Independence Day: Friday, July 4, 2025
- Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025
- Columbus Day: Monday, October 13, 2025
- Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 27, 2025
- Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025
Detailed Descriptions and Observances
New Year’s Day: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year. Traditionally, Americans celebrate with gatherings, fireworks, and making resolutions for the upcoming year. It’s a time for reflection and setting goals.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 20, 2025
Observed on the third Monday of January, Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the civil rights leader’s contributions to achieving racial equality in the United States. Many participate in community service activities, reflecting Dr. King’s commitment to social justice.
Inauguration Day: Monday, January 20, 2025
Inauguration Day occurs every four years on January 20, following a U.S. presidential election. It signifies the commencement of a new presidential term. In 2025, this day coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, making it a unique convergence of significant events.
Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day): Monday, February 17, 2025
Commonly known as Presidents’ Day, this holiday honors all U.S. presidents, with a particular focus on George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Celebrated on the third Monday in February, it has become associated with patriotic displays and retail sales events.
Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 2025
Memorial Day is a solemn day of remembrance for military personnel who have died in service to their country. Observed on the last Monday in May, traditions include visiting cemeteries, holding parades, and participating in moments of silence.
Juneteenth National Independence Day: Thursday, June 19, 2025
Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, marking the day in 1865 when news of the Emancipation Proclamation reached Texas. Celebrations often feature cultural festivals, educational events, and family gatherings.
Independence Day: Friday, July 4, 2025
Independence Day celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Festivities include fireworks, parades, concerts, and various public and private events honoring the nation’s history and traditions.
Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025
Observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day honors the contributions of American workers. It signifies the unofficial end of summer, with many enjoying picnics, barbecues, and recreational activities.
Columbus Day: Monday, October 13, 2025
Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. Observances vary, with some regions holding parades and cultural events, while others recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day as an alternative celebration.
Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Veterans Day honors all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Ceremonies, parades, and educational programs are common, acknowledging the sacrifices and service of veterans.
Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Thanksgiving Day is a time for expressing gratitude, traditionally involving a feast with family and friends. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, it often includes turkey dinners, football games, and the beginning of the holiday shopping season.
Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025
Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians worldwide. In the U.S., it encompasses religious services, gift-giving, festive decorations, and family gatherings.
Planning and Observance
Understanding these holidays aids in scheduling personal and professional activities. Many businesses and government offices close on federal holidays, and public transportation may operate on reduced schedules. It’s advisable to check specific local practices and plan accordingly.
For more detailed information on federal holidays and their observance, refer to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and the U.S. Courts.
