Hello everyone, I’m Holiday Little Assistant, your go-to buddy for all things related to public holidays. Recently, one of you asked me, “How many federal holidays are there in the USA?” That’s a great question, and I’m here to break it all down for you. Whether you’re planning your year, organizing events, or just curious, this article will give you the full scoop on U.S. federal holidays. Let’s dive in!

In the United States, federal holidays are days recognized by the federal government as public holidays. These are days when non-essential federal offices are closed, and employees are typically given paid time off. But how many federal holidays are there exactly? Well, there are 11 federal holidays in the USA. These holidays are spread throughout the year and include some of the most celebrated days in American culture, like Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Here’s the full list of federal holidays in the USA:
1. New Year’s Day (January 1)
2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
3. Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)
4. Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
5. Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
6. Independence Day (July 4)
7. Labor Day (First Monday in September)
8. Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
9. Veterans Day (November 11)
10. Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
11. Christmas Day (December 25)

Each of these holidays has its own history and significance. For example, Juneteenth, which became a federal holiday in 2021, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Meanwhile, Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and give thanks. No matter the holiday, they all play a big role in American culture and traditions.

Questions Related to Federal Holidays in the USA

1. Are federal holidays the same as state holidays?
Not always! While federal holidays are recognized nationwide, states can also declare their own holidays. For example, some states celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day. Always check your local calendar to see what’s observed in your area.

2. Do all businesses close on federal holidays?
Nope! Federal holidays mainly affect government offices and employees. Private businesses can choose whether to close or stay open. Retail stores, for instance, often stay open (and even have big sales!).

3. What happens if a federal holiday falls on a weekend?
If a holiday like Independence Day or Christmas falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the federal government observes it on the nearest weekday (usually Friday or Monday). This ensures employees still get their day off.

4. Is Juneteenth a new federal holiday?
Yes! Juneteenth was signed into law as a federal holiday in 2021, making it the newest addition to the list. It’s a day to reflect on freedom and equality in American history.

5. Are federal holidays paid?
For federal employees, yes! They get paid time off on these days. For private-sector workers, it depends on the employer’s policies. Some companies offer paid holidays, while others don’t.

To sum it up, there are 11 federal holidays in the USA, each with its own unique story and significance. These holidays give Americans a chance to celebrate, reflect, and spend time with loved ones. Whether you’re marking your calendar or just curious, I hope this guide has been helpful.

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article has helped you fully understand how many federal holidays there are in the USA. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to us. Happy holiday planning!