Throughout the year, there are eleven federal holidays observed in the United States. Before 2020, there were just ten national holidays in the United States, which were observed from January to December. But in 2021, President Joe Biden signed a statute designating Juneteenth Day as the eleventh federal holiday on the calendar after Congress approved the newest one.

The US government recognizes 11 holidays, some of which are observed on set dates and others of which are observed annually. If these days fall on a weekend, there may be a variation in how they are observed. You may learn more about the dates of the 11 federal holidays in 2024 by reading this blog post.

Introduction to US Federal Holidays

• Definition of Federal Holidays

Federal holidays in the United States are days designated by the government as non-working days for federal employees. These holidays commemorate important historical events, honor significant figures, and celebrate national traditions. They provide opportunities for Americans to come together, reflect on their shared history and values, and enjoy time with family and friends.

• History and Significance of Federal Holidays in the USA

The history of federal holidays in the USA can be traced back to the late 19th century. In 1870, Congress established the first four national holidays: New Year's Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Over the years, more holidays were added, each reflecting a specific event or figure that has shaped the nation's identity. On June 17, 2021, Joe Biden signed legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.

The most significant US Federal Holidays in 2024 include:

Major US Federal Holidays in 2024

1. New Year's Day

New Year's Day has been celebrated since ancient times, marking the beginning of a new calendar year. The origins can be traced back to Mesopotamia around 4000 BC when the New Year coincided with the spring equinox. Over time, different cultures adopted their calendars and traditions to mark the occasion. In the United States, New Year's Day became a federal holiday in 1870. However, celebrations had been taking place for much longer, often involving:

• Countdown to Midnight: Gathering with friends and family to cheer as the clock strikes midnight, welcoming the New Year with loud noise and jubilation.
• Resolutions: Setting personal goals and aspirations for the New Year, aiming for self-improvement and positive change.
• Feasts and Celebrations: Enjoying special meals and parties, often incorporating symbolic foods believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.
• Fireworks Displays: Dazzling light shows illuminating the night sky, symbolizing the hopes and dreams for the New Year.

2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, celebrated on the third Monday of January, honors the life and legacy of the iconic civil rights leader. Born in 1929, Dr. King dedicated his life to fighting for racial equality and justice through nonviolent means. His leadership in the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, his powerful speeches like "I Have a Dream," and his unwavering commitment to equality left an indelible mark on American history.

The importance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Promoting Equality includes:

• Raises Awareness: It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice.
• Inspires Action: It encourages individuals to learn about Dr. King's teachings and get involved in their communities to combat discrimination and promote understanding.
• Celebrates Progress: It highlights the advancements made in the fight for equality while acknowledging the work that remains.
• Unites Communities: It brings people together from diverse backgrounds to honor Dr. King's legacy and work towards a better future.

3. Presidents Day

While officially called Washington's Birthday at the federal level, Presidents Day is commonly used to commemorate both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, whose birthdays fall on February 22 and February 12, respectively.

• Roots in Washington's Birthday: Following his death in 1799, Washington's Birthday became a day of remembrance. By the 1880s, it was officially established as a federal holiday.
• Shifting to Presidents Day: In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act aimed to create more three-day weekends. This moved Washington's Birthday to the third Monday in February, encompassing Lincoln's birthday and inadvertently giving rise to the popular term "Presidents Day."
• Beyond Washington and Lincoln: While the holiday often focuses on these two prominent figures, some states celebrate additional presidents' birthdays or observe it as a general day to honor all U.S. presidents.

4. Memorial Day

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a day dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Originating from Decoration Day, a post-Civil War tradition of decorating soldiers' graves, Memorial Day has evolved into a day of remembrance for all fallen service members. It's a time to express gratitude for their sacrifices and pay our respects to the families they left behind.

There are several activities done by Americans on this day to honor war heroes such as:

• Visiting Cemeteries: People visit military cemeteries and memorials to place flowers on graves, hold remembrance ceremonies, and pay their respects.
• Parades and Ceremonies: Cities and towns often hold parades with marching bands, veterans' organizations, and patriotic displays. Official ceremonies include speeches, wreath laying, and playing of the Taps.
• Moment of Silence: At 3:00 p.m. local time, a nationwide moment of silence is observed to honor fallen service members.
• National Memorial Day Concert: Held at the Lincoln Memorial, this televised concert features patriotic music and tributes to fallen service members.

5. Independence Day

Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, falls on July 4th and commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This declaration marked the official break between the thirteen colonies and Great Britain and paved the way for the formation of the United States of America. In America, the following activities are done to celebrate this day with full joy:

• Fireworks Displays: The night sky lights up with dazzling displays across the country, symbolizing the joy and triumph of American independence.
• Parades: Cities and towns host vibrant parades featuring marching bands, floats, veterans, and community groups, celebrating American patriotism and unity.
• Barbecues and Picnics: Families and friends gather for backyard barbecues, picnics in parks, and community events, enjoying traditional American food like grilled burgers, hot dogs, and potato salad.
• Fireworks on the Beach: Many coastal towns organize spectacular fireworks displays over the ocean, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

6. Christmas Day

Christmas Day, a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon, transcending religious boundaries. Some symbolism and traditions associated with Christmas are:

• Birth of Jesus Christ: Christmas Day marks the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, with nativity scenes, church services, and carols commemorating the religious significance of the day.
• Santa Claus and Gift-Giving: The jolly figure of Santa Claus, a tradition with roots in Saint Nicholas, brings joy to children as they eagerly await presents under the Christmas tree.
• Feasts and Gatherings: Family and friends come together for festive meals, often featuring traditional dishes like roast turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.
• Decorations and Lights: Homes are adorned with colorful lights, Christmas trees, wreaths, and festive decorations, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.

7. Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, has its roots in a 1621 harvest feast shared by the Wampanoag people and the Pilgrims who had arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts the previous year. While the holiday has evolved, it remains a day to express gratitude for blessings and good fortune. Thanksgiving is a time for reflection and expressions of gratitude. Some activities done to celebrate Thanksgiving Day are:

• Thanksgiving Feast: The centerpiece of the day is a large meal enjoyed with family and friends, featuring roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, and other traditional dishes.
• Thanksgiving Parades: Some cities hold Thanksgiving Day parades, featuring marching bands, balloons, floats, and celebrities, providing entertainment and festive spirit.
• Volunteering and Charity: Giving back to the community is a meaningful way to celebrate Thanksgiving. Many people volunteer at soup kitchens, food banks, or homeless shelters, offering their time and resources to those in need.
• Expressing Gratitude: Thanksgiving is a reminder to pause and appreciate the blessings in life. People express gratitude through prayers, conversations, or simply reflecting on the things they are thankful for.

Lesser-Known US Federal Holidays 2024

1. Labor Day

Labor Day, observed on the first Monday in September, celebrates the contributions and achievements of American workers. Its roots lie in the late 19th century, during a period of intense industrialization and labor unrest.

• Labor Movement and Trade Unions: As factories and mills sprang up across the country, workers faced harsh conditions, long hours, and low wages. Trade unions emerged, advocating for better working conditions and fair treatment.
• Demand for a Workers' Holiday: Inspired by the May Day celebrations in Europe, American workers sought a day to honor their contributions and solidarity.
• First Labor Day Parade and Recognition: In 1882, New York City hosted the first Labor Day parade, with 10,000 workers marching for an eight-hour workday. Within a decade, several states declared Labor Day an official holiday, and by 1894, it became a federal holiday.

2. Columbus Day

Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday in October, commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. However, the holiday has become increasingly controversial in recent years.

• Discovery or Encounter?: While Columbus Day traditionally celebrates Columbus' "discovery" of the Americas, critics argue that this narrative overlooks the presence of Indigenous peoples who had inhabited the land for millennia. They emphasize the devastating impact of European colonization on Indigenous cultures and communities.
• Symbolism and Representation: For many, Columbus is a symbol of European exploration and expansion, but for others, he represents colonialism, oppression, and the displacement of Indigenous populations. This tension has led to calls for renaming or abolishing the holiday altogether.

3. Veterans Day

Veterans Day, observed on November 11th, marks a day of national gratitude and respect for the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It's a time to reflect on their sacrifices, acknowledge their service, and celebrate their unwavering commitment to protecting our nation's freedom.

• More than Just a Day Off: Veterans Day is not just a federal holiday; it's a call to action. It's a reminder to the nation to remember the sacrifices made by those who have served, both on the battlefield and at home.
• Remembering Fallen Heroes: We pay our respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, ensuring their memory lives on and their families are supported.
• Thanking Living Veterans: We express our gratitude to the millions of living veterans who have served with honor and courage, protecting our way of life.
• Supporting Veterans' Needs: We raise awareness and encourage action to address the challenges faced by veterans, including healthcare, employment, and mental health issues.

4. Juneteenth Day

Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, marks a significant day in American history: the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. It's a day of celebration, reflection, and education about the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

• Emancipation Proclamation: Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it took nearly two years for the news to reach enslaved people in remote areas, particularly Galveston, Texas.
• General Order No. 3: On June 19th, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and announced the end of slavery in Texas, marking the official end of the institution in the Confederate states.
• Symbol of Freedom and Hope: Juneteenth became a day of celebration for Black communities across the country, commemorating freedom, resilience, and the enduring fight for equality.
• Federal Holiday since 2021: Recognizing its historical significance, Juneteenth was officially designated as a federal holiday in 2021.

How Federal Holidays Are Determined?

• Legal Basis and Legislation

The establishment of federal holidays in the United States is governed by Title 5 of the U.S. Code, specifically Section 6103, titled "Holidays." This section enumerates the official federal holidays for federal employees, which are days when non-essential government offices are closed. Several entities play a role in declaring federal holidays:

• Congress: Ultimately, it is the U.S. Congress that has the authority to create or remove federal holidays through legislation. Bills proposing new holidays are introduced and debated in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, requiring approval from both chambers and ultimately the President's signature to become law.
• President: The President can also play a role through executive orders. While these orders cannot create new holidays, they can designate existing holidays as "observances" or modify how certain holidays are observed by federal employees.

• Role of Government in Declaring Holidays

While Congress holds the formal authority to declare holidays, the government's role extends beyond simply establishing them. Government agencies, such as the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), are responsible for:

• Administering Holiday Schedules: The OPM determines which federal employees are entitled to paid time off on holidays and how holiday pay is calculated.
• Issuing Guidance: The OPM also provides guidance and instructions to federal agencies on how to observe holidays, ensuring consistent practices across the government.
• Advocating for Holidays: Some government agencies or special interest groups may advocate for the creation of new holidays to raise awareness about specific issues or commemorate historical events.

State Variations in Recognizing Federal Holidays

• Overview of State-Specific Holidays

While most states recognize most federal holidays, there are some variations:

• Optional Observance: Some states may choose not to observe certain federal holidays as legal holidays for state employees. For example, some states do not have Columbus Day as a paid holiday for state workers.
• Additional State Holidays: Each state also has its unique holidays that are not federal holidays. These may commemorate historical events specific to the state, celebrate local legends, or honor state figures.
• Variations in Names and Dates: Some states may call certain federal holidays by different names or observe them on different dates. For instance, Washington's Birthday is also celebrated as Presidents' Day in most states, though not all.

• Comparison to Federal Holidays

There are several key differences between federal holidays and state-specific holidays:

• Scope: Federal holidays apply nationwide, while state-specific holidays only apply within their respective states.
• Paid Time Off: While federal employees generally receive paid time off for federal holidays, state employees may not receive paid time off for state-specific holidays unless their individual agencies or labor contracts stipulate it.
• Public Closures: The closure of government offices and businesses generally follows the observance of federal holidays, but may not be the case for all state-specific holidays.

Conclusion

Federal holidays offer more than just a break from work; they provide valuable opportunities to pause, reflect, and celebrate moments that have shaped our nation's history and identity. Whether commemorating the sacrifices of veterans, remembering the struggle for freedom, or honoring the contributions of American workers, these special days connect us to a shared past and inspire us to build a better future.

FAQs

• What is the difference between federal holidays and national holidays?

Although they have different connotations, the terms "federal holidays" and "national holidays" are sometimes used synonymously. Federal holidays are holidays recognized by the U.S. government, during which federal offices and institutions are closed. National holidays, on the other hand, may refer to holidays widely celebrated by the nation but are not necessarily recognized as days off at the federal level.

• Are federal holidays observed uniformly across all states?

While most states recognize all federal holidays, some variations exist. Some states may choose not to consider certain holidays as legal holidays for state employees, and some may even observe them on different dates or under different names.

• Is it mandatory for employers to provide paid leave on federal holidays?

No, the federal government does not mandate that private employers provide paid leave on federal holidays. This depends on individual employment contracts, company policies, and state laws. Some states may require paid time off for specific holidays for all employees, but this varies widely.

• What happens to the post office during federal holidays?

Most post offices are closed on major federal holidays, but some larger offices may maintain limited hours. It's best to check your local post office's website or call ahead for confirmation.

• What happens if a weekend falls on a federal holiday?

For pay and leave, most Federal employees will observe the Friday before a holiday if it falls on a Saturday. For pay and leave, most Federal employees will observe the following Monday as a holiday if the holiday falls on a Sunday.

• Can states create their federal holidays?

No, states cannot create their own "federal holidays." However, they can establish their unique holidays specific to their state history or culture, and these holidays may be observed within their respective state jurisdictions.