Federal Holidays 2025 in New York State

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Written By Victor Mullen

This comprehensive guide provides a complete list of federal holidays in New York for 2025. As federal holidays, these dates are observed across New York State. Use this list to plan vacations, understand business closures, or simply know when schools are likely to be closed.

2025 Federal Holidays in New York: Quick Reference

HolidayDateDay of the Week
New Year’s DayJan 1Wednesday
Martin Luther King, Jr. DayJan 20Monday
Washington’s BirthdayFeb 17Monday
Memorial DayMay 26Monday
Juneteenth National Independence DayJun 19Thursday
Independence DayJul 4Friday
Labor DaySep 1Monday
Columbus DayOct 13Monday
Veterans DayNov 11Tuesday
Thanksgiving DayNov 27Thursday
Christmas DayDec 25Thursday

A Deeper Dive into Federal Holidays

While most people are familiar with these holidays, understanding their history and significance can enrich the experience.

Winter Holidays

  • New Year’s Day: Celebrated globally, this marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. In New York, celebrations often kick off the night before with festivities across the state.
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Commemorates the life and work of Dr. King, a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. New York, with its rich history of social activism, often holds special events and commemorations.

Spring/Summer Holidays

  • Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day): While officially Washington’s birthday, this holiday is often observed as Presidents’ Day, celebrating all U.S. presidents.
  • Memorial Day: A solemn day for remembering and honoring members of the U.S. military who died in service. This day often marks the unofficial start of summer in New York.
  • Juneteenth National Independence Day: Celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. This holiday carries particular weight given New York’s historical connection to both slavery and abolition.
  • Independence Day: A celebration of the United States’ declaration of independence. Expect parades, fireworks, and numerous community events across the state.
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Fall/Winter Holidays

  • Labor Day: Celebrates the achievements of the American labor movement. Often seen as the unofficial end of summer.
  • Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day: A day of complex significance. Traditionally commemorating Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, it’s increasingly observed as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, acknowledging the history and contributions of Native Americans.
  • Veterans Day: Honors all who have served in the U.S. military. New York City, home to a large veteran population, often holds significant parades and events.
  • Thanksgiving Day: A time for expressing gratitude, often with family gatherings and traditional meals.
  • Christmas Day: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians worldwide. New York City is famous for its holiday decorations and festive atmosphere.

Planning Around Federal Holidays

When planning around these dates, remember:

  • Advance Planning: Book travel and accommodations early, especially for popular holiday weekends.
  • Closures: Anticipate closures of government offices, banks, and some businesses. Check in advance to avoid inconvenience.
  • Local Events: Many communities hold special events during federal holidays. Check local listings for activities and festivities.

While this information is believed to be accurate as of late 2024, it’s always advisable to consult official government sources closer to the actual dates for the most up-to-date information. Happy planning!