President Donald Trump issued an executive order this Thursday declaring December 24 and 26 as federal holidays across the United States, thus extending the traditional Christmas break for government employees.
Under this order, federal agencies will remain closed from Wednesday, December 24, through Friday, December 26, as December 25 (Christmas) is already recognized as a national holiday.
However, the directive signed by Trump specifies that agency leaders have the discretion to decide which offices or facilities must stay operational and which staff members are required to work during these days.
"Certain essential services must remain operational, but most federal employees will be able to enjoy a well-deserved break with their families during Christmas," stated Trump in a communication released by the White House.
During his first term, Trump had already designated Christmas Eve as a federal holiday in both 2019 and 2020.
In 2014, then-President Barack Obama made a similar move by declaring December 26 a holiday when it fell on a Friday.
In May, Trump also declared May 8 and 11 as national holidays to commemorate the Allied victories in World War II and World War I, respectively.
Although November 11 is already celebrated as Veterans Day, the White House clarified that the proclamation served as an additional commemorative gesture without altering the official name of the day.
With these two new holidays, the year 2025 will feature 13 federal holidays, including New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day (and Inauguration Day), Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and December 26.
To transform a temporary holiday into a permanent one, Congress must pass the necessary legislation, and the president must sign it.
The most recent official holiday added to the calendar was Juneteenth in 2021, during Joe Biden's administration.
Understanding Federal Holidays and Their Impact
What is the significance of declaring December 24 and 26 as federal holidays?
Declaring December 24 and 26 as federal holidays extends the Christmas break for government employees, allowing them more time to spend with family. It also signifies the administration's recognition of the importance of holiday rest for federal workers.
Are all federal employees off on these newly declared holidays?
Not all federal employees are off on these holidays. Agency leaders have the authority to determine which offices need to remain open and which employees need to work, ensuring that essential services continue to operate.
How does a temporary federal holiday become permanent?
For a temporary federal holiday to become permanent, Congress must pass the required legislation, and the president must sign it into law. This process ensures that the holiday is officially recognized on an ongoing basis.