Hello everyone, I am your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant. Recently, a little friend asked me about the number of national holidays in the United States. It’s a great question, and I’m here to break it all down for you. Whether you’re planning your vacation days or just curious about American culture, this guide will give you the full scoop. Let’s dive in!

In the United States, national holidays, also known as federal holidays, are days recognized by the federal government. On these days, non-essential federal offices are closed, and federal employees are paid to take the day off. But here’s the thing—there’s no single, universal list of holidays that applies to everyone. While federal holidays are observed nationwide, private businesses and even some states may have their own additional holidays. So, how many national holidays are there? Officially, there are 11 federal holidays in the United States. These include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Questions Related to US National Holidays

1. Are federal holidays the same as state holidays?
Not always. While all states recognize federal holidays, some states have their own additional holidays. For example, states like Texas and California have added holidays like Cesar Chavez Day or Emancipation Day. It’s always a good idea to check your state’s specific holiday calendar.

2. Do all businesses close on federal holidays?
Nope! While federal offices and banks typically close, private businesses like retail stores and restaurants often stay open. In fact, holidays like Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) are some of the busiest shopping days of the year.

3. What’s the newest federal holiday?
The most recent addition to the list is Juneteenth National Independence Day, signed into law in 2021. It commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is celebrated on June 19th.

4. Why isn’t Election Day a federal holiday?
Great question! While Election Day is incredibly important, it’s not a federal holiday. However, some states have made it a holiday or allow paid time off for voting. Advocates continue to push for it to become a national holiday.

5. How do federal holidays affect pay?
Federal employees get paid time off on these holidays. For private-sector workers, it depends on the employer. Some companies offer paid holidays, while others don’t. Always check with your HR department to know what’s included in your benefits.

To sum it up, the United States has 11 federal holidays, but the way they’re observed can vary depending on where you live and work. These holidays are a great way to celebrate American history, culture, and values. Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue on the Fourth of July or relaxing with family on Thanksgiving, federal holidays are a time to come together and reflect.

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article can help you fully understand how many national holidays there are in the United States. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to us. Happy holidays!