The United States federal holiday calendar for 2026 includes 11 significant days that Americans observe and celebrate. As summer arrives with the Memorial Day three-day weekend, it is an opportune moment to review the full list of official holidays for the year.
Memorial Day: A Solemn Start to Summer
Observed on the last Monday in May each year, Memorial Day in 2026 falls on Monday, May 25. This day unofficially marks the start of warmer months with a long weekend known for barbecues, yard work, and pool openings. However, its true purpose is to honor military members who died in service. The solemn day is recognized as one of the 11 federal holidays in the calendar year and is acknowledged across the country with flags lowered to half-staff under established nationwide tradition. It is one of the few times flags are lowered in every state. Individual employers decide whether to offer time off or additional pay for work on federal holidays.
Full List of 2026 Federal Holidays
- New Year's Day: Thursday, January 1
- Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.: Monday, January 19
- Presidents' Day: Monday, February 16
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 25
- Juneteenth National Independence Day: Friday, June 19
- Independence Day: Saturday, July 4
- Labor Day: Monday, September 7
- Indigenous Peoples' Day (also observed as Columbus Day): Monday, October 12
- Veterans Day: Wednesday, November 11
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 26
- Christmas Day: Friday, December 25
Other Important Days to Note
- Valentine's Day: Saturday, February 14
- St. Patrick's Day: Tuesday, March 17
- April Fools' Day: Wednesday, April 1
- First Day of Passover: Wednesday, April 1
- Good Friday: Friday, April 3
- Easter: Sunday, April 5
- Mother's Day: Sunday, May 10
- Father's Day: Sunday, June 21
- Halloween: Saturday, October 31
- First Day of Hanukkah: Friday, December 4
- Christmas Eve: Thursday, December 24
- New Year's Eve: Thursday, December 31
