The United States observes federal holidays that apply to federal employees; states and private employers choose which ones to observe, so the experience varies by location. When a federal holiday falls on a Saturday it is usually observed the Friday before, and on a Sunday it moves to the following Monday.
In 2026, United States has 17 official public holidays. The month with the most holidays is October, with 3. 2 months have no public holiday at all.
There are 13 potential long weekends this year, from holidays landing on a Monday or Friday. No holiday falls on a weekend, so none are "lost".
The longest stretch without a public holiday runs from Independence Day (July 3) to Labour Day (September 7): 66 days.
The first holiday of the year is New Year's Day (January 1) and the last is Christmas Day (December 25).
Long weekends in 2026
Holidays landing on a Monday or Friday
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 19 · Monday
Presidents Day
February 16 · Monday
Good Friday
April 3 · Friday
Good Friday
April 3 · Friday
Truman Day
May 8 · Friday
Memorial Day
May 25 · Monday
Juneteenth National Independence Day
June 19 · Friday
Independence Day
July 3 · Friday
Labour Day
September 7 · Monday
Columbus Day
October 12 · Monday
Columbus Day
October 12 · Monday
Indigenous Peoples' Day
October 12 · Monday
Christmas Day
December 25 · Friday
Frequently asked questions
How many public holidays does United States have in 2026?+
United States has 17 official public holidays in 2026, with October being the busiest month (3).
What is the first public holiday of 2026 in United States?+
The first public holiday of 2026 is New Year's Day, on January 1.
How many long weekends are there in United States in 2026?+
13 holidays land on a Monday or Friday, which can create long weekends.
Are U.S. federal holidays mandatory everywhere?+
No. They are mandatory for the federal government; each state and employer decides which to adopt, so observance can differ from place to place.