List of US 2024 federal holiday dates: is Easter a national holiday?

Easter Sunday, a cornerstone of the Christian faith celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is a cherished tradition in the United States. Families gather for religious services, festive meals, and egg hunts. Yet, unlike Christmas or Thanksgiving, Easter doesn’t hold the official status of a federal holiday.

The designation of federal holidays in the US falls under the authority of the US Congress. There are currently 11 federal holidays, including New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. These days signify significant historical events or national values, often with government offices closed and federal employees receiving paid time off.

So, why isn’t Easter included on this list? Easter’s date changes year-to-year based on the lunar calendar. This variability might make it impractical for businesses and government institutions to consistently plan closures. Other religious holidays like Christmas already have widespread commercialisation and cultural significance, offering a similar opportunity for celebration and family time.

However, some businesses will still close on Friday so check ahead.

List of 2024 federal holiday dates