Start planning your time off for next year! The list of federal holidays for 2025 has been released, and there are some exciting dates to look forward to. Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway or simply want to know when you’ll have a day off, this article has you covered. We’ll provide you with the complete list of federal holidays for 2025, as well as some helpful tips for planning your time off.
The first federal holiday of 2025 is New Year’s Day, which falls on Thursday, January 1. This is a great day to relax and recover from the New Year’s Eve celebrations. The next federal holiday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls on Monday, January 20. This holiday commemorates the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a civil rights leader who fought for equality and justice.
The third federal holiday of 2025 is Presidents’ Day, which falls on Monday, February 17. This holiday honors all of the presidents of the United States, past and present. The fourth federal holiday is Memorial Day, which falls on Monday, May 26. This holiday honors the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. The fifth federal holiday is Juneteenth, which falls on Thursday, June 19. This holiday commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, is a global holiday that marks the beginning of a new calendar year. It is a day of celebration and reflection, as people gather with family and friends to enjoy the festivities and look forward to the year ahead.
The history of New Year’s Day dates back to ancient times, with the Babylonians being the first to celebrate it around 4,000 years ago. They believed that the new year began with the first new moon after the vernal equinox, and they celebrated with a 12-day festival called Akitu.
Over the centuries, the date of New Year’s Day has changed, as different cultures adopted different calendars. In the Roman calendar, January 1st became the official start of the new year in 153 BCE. This date was later adopted by the Gregorian calendar, which is the calendar most commonly used today.
New Year’s Eve
The evening before New Year’s Day is known as New Year’s Eve. It is a time for revelry and celebration, as people gather to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. New Year’s Eve traditions vary around the world, but common activities include attending parties, watching fireworks, and making resolutions for the coming year.
| Country | New Year’s Eve Traditions |
|---|---|
| United States | Watching the ball drop in Times Square, New York City |
| United Kingdom | Singing “Auld Lang Syne” and watching fireworks over the River Thames |
| France | Eating oysters and drinking champagne |
| Brazil | Wearing white and jumping over seven waves to bring good luck |
| Japan | Eating soba noodles and visiting temples |
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a civil rights leader and activist in the United States. He is remembered for his role in the American Civil Rights Movement, and for his work to achieve equality for all Americans. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the third Monday of January. The holiday was first established in 1983, and is now observed in all 50 states.
On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, people all over the country come together to remember King’s legacy and to work towards his goals of equality and justice. There are many ways to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, including attending a march or rally, volunteering at a local organization, or simply taking time to reflect on King’s life and work.
King’s Legacy
Martin Luther King, Jr. was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 15, 1929. He was the son of a Baptist minister, and he grew up in a segregated society. King attended Morehouse College, where he studied sociology and religion. After graduating from Morehouse, King went on to attend Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania, where he earned a doctorate in theology.
In 1954, King became the pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. It was here that King began his work in the civil rights movement. In 1955, King led the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which was a successful effort to desegregate the city’s buses. The boycott lasted for over a year, and it eventually led to the Supreme Court ruling that segregation on public transportation was unconstitutional.
After the Montgomery Bus Boycott, King helped to found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). The SCLC was a civil rights organization that worked to desegregate schools, restaurants, and other public places. King led the SCLC for many years, and he was a key figure in the civil rights movement until his assassination in 1968.
King’s legacy is one of peace, love, and nonviolence. He believed that all people are created equal, and he worked tirelessly to achieve equality for all Americans. King’s work has had a profound impact on the United States, and he is considered one of the most important figures in American history.
| Date | Year |
|---|---|
| Monday, January 20 | 2025 |
President’s Day
President’s Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It is a day to honor all of the presidents of the United States, both past and present. The holiday was originally established in 1885 as Washington’s Birthday to commemorate the birthday of George Washington, the first president of the United States. In 1971, the holiday was changed to President’s Day to honor all presidents.
History of President’s Day
The history of President’s Day dates back to 1885, when Congress passed a law establishing Washington’s Birthday as a federal holiday. The holiday was originally celebrated on February 22, Washington’s actual birthday. However, in 1971, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved Washington’s Birthday to the third Monday of February. This change was made to create a three-day weekend for federal employees.
Traditions of President’s Day
There are many different traditions associated with President’s Day. Some of the most common traditions include:
- Visiting presidential libraries and museums: Many people visit presidential libraries and museums on President’s Day to learn more about the lives and legacies of the presidents.
- Attending parades and other events: Many cities and towns hold parades and other events on President’s Day to celebrate the holiday.
- Eating cherry pie: Cherry pie is a traditional food that is eaten on President’s Day. The cherry pie is said to represent the cherry tree that George Washington chopped down as a child.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | February 17 |
Memorial Day
Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday in May in the United States, is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring and remembering those who have died while serving in the U.S. military.
History
The origin of Memorial Day can be traced back to the Civil War era when both the Union and Confederate soldiers were buried in unmarked graves. In 1868, General John A. Logan, the commander of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), an organization of Union veterans, issued a proclamation calling for a day of remembrance for fallen soldiers. The first Memorial Day was observed on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
Observances
Memorial Day is a day for Americans to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by our military men and women. Traditional observances include:
Visiting Cemeteries
Many people visit cemeteries and place flags or flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers. Some cemeteries hold special ceremonies to honor the dead.
Attending Parades
Many towns and cities hold parades on Memorial Day, featuring veterans, marching bands, and other groups. These parades provide an opportunity for communities to come together and honor their fallen heroes.
Holding Memorial Services
Memorial services are held in churches, schools, and other public places. These services typically include readings, speeches, and prayers in remembrance of those who have given their lives for their country.
Participating in Community Events
Some communities organize special events on Memorial Day, such as concerts, picnics, or sporting events. These events often have a patriotic theme and provide a way for people to come together and celebrate the holiday while also honoring the fallen.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Monday, May 29 |
| 2024 | Monday, May 27 |
| 2025 | Monday, May 26 |
| 2026 | Monday, May 25 |
Juneteenth
History
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Cel-Liberation, commemorates the legal end of slavery in the United States.
Juneteenth Today
Juneteenth is a day of celebration, reflection, and education. It is a day to remember the past and to celebrate the progress that has been made. It is also a day to recommit to the fight for equality and justice.
How Juneteenth is Celebrated
Juneteenth is celebrated in a variety of ways. Some common activities include:
- Parades
- Barbecues
- Picnics
- Concerts
- Educational programs
- Church services
Juneteenth in Popular Culture
In recent years, Juneteenth has become increasingly popular in popular culture. It is now recognized by many businesses and organizations, and it is often featured in movies, television shows, and music.
States that Recognize Juneteenth as a Holiday
Juneteenth is a legal holiday in the following states:
| State | Year Recognized |
|---|---|
| Texas | 1980 |
| Oklahoma | 1982 |
| District of Columbia | 2005 |
| Mississippi | 2021 |
| New York | 2022 |
Independence Day
Date: July 4, 2025
Observed: July 4, 2025
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This historic document declared the 13 American colonies’ independence from British rule and marked the birth of the United States of America.
Traditions and Celebrations
Independence Day is celebrated with a variety of traditions and events:
- Fireworks: Spectacular fireworks displays light up the night sky across the country.
- Parades: Colorful parades featuring marching bands, floats, and patriotic displays are held in towns and cities.
- Barbecues and Picnics: Families and friends gather for outdoor cookouts, grilling hot dogs, hamburgers, and other summer favorites.
- Festivals and Concerts: Music festivals, concerts, and community events offer entertainment and festivities.
- Patriotic Decor: Homes, businesses, and public spaces are adorned with American flags, bunting, and patriotic decorations.
Public Holiday
Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States, and all government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed. It is a day to reflect on the nation’s history, celebrate its independence, and enjoy time with family and friends.
Historical Significance
The Declaration of Independence was a bold and decisive act that forever altered the course of American history. It proclaimed the principles of liberty, equality, and the right of self-governance. The document’s signers risked their lives and fortunes to establish a new nation based on these ideals.
| Date Adopted: | July 4, 1776 |
| Signers: | 56 |
| Notable Signers: | John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington |
| Landmark Phrase: | “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal” |
Columbus Day
Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed on the second Monday of October. It commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. The holiday was first celebrated in 1792, and it became a national holiday in 1937.
History of Columbus Day
The history of Columbus Day is a complex and controversial one. Some people believe that Columbus was a great explorer who opened up the Americas to European colonization. Others believe that he was a ruthless conqueror who enslaved and murdered indigenous peoples.
Columbus Day Today
Columbus Day is a day of celebration for some people, and a day of protest for others. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to replace Columbus Day with a holiday that celebrates the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Arguments for and Against Columbus Day
There are many arguments for and against Columbus Day. Some of the arguments in favor of the holiday include:
- Columbus Day is a celebration of American history.
- Columbus Day is a day to honor the contributions of Italian Americans.
- Columbus Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of all explorers.
Some of the arguments against the holiday include:
- Columbus Day glorifies a man who committed genocide against indigenous peoples.
- Columbus Day is a reminder of the colonialism and oppression that followed Columbus’s arrival in the Americas.
- Columbus Day is not a true celebration of American history, as it ignores the contributions of indigenous peoples.
Alternative Holidays
There are a number of alternative holidays that have been proposed to replace Columbus Day. Some of these holidays include:
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day
- Day of the Americas
- Exploration Day
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | October 13 |
Veterans Day
Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, is a federal holiday in the United States observed on November 11th to honor military veterans. The holiday was originally established to commemorate the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918, at 11:00 AM. In 1954, the holiday was expanded to honor all veterans.
Traditional Observances
Traditional observances of Veterans Day include parades, speeches, and wreath-laying ceremonies at memorials and cemeteries. Many businesses and government offices are closed on Veterans Day, and schools often hold special programs to educate students about the holiday and the sacrifices made by veterans.
Symbolism of the Number 9
The number 9 has significant meaning in the context of Veterans Day. Here are some examples:
| Symbolism | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 9th Hour | The armistice that ended World War I was signed at 11:00 AM, which is the 9th hour of the day. |
| 9th Month | November is the 9th month of the year. |
| November 11th | Veterans Day is observed on November 11th, which includes the number 9 twice. |
| 90 Days | Traditionally, soldiers were given a 90-day furlough after completing their military service. |
| 9-Star General | The highest military rank in the United States is a 9-star general, although this rank has never been awarded. |
| 9/11 Attacks | The 9/11 attacks, which occurred on September 11, 2001, led to a renewed focus on honoring veterans and their sacrifices. |
| 9th Infantry Division | The 9th Infantry Division of the United States Army has a distinguished history and is known as the “Old Reliables.” |
| 9th Armored Division | The 9th Armored Division of the United States Army played a crucial role in the liberation of Europe during World War II. |
| 9th Air Force | The 9th Air Force of the United States Air Force is headquartered in Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina. |
Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a day to give thanks for the harvest and to spend time with family and friends. Thanksgiving Day is also a time to reflect on the past year and to be grateful for all that we have.
The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians. The Pilgrims were a group of English settlers who had come to America seeking religious freedom. The Wampanoags were a Native American tribe who helped the Pilgrims survive their first winter in America.
The first Thanksgiving was a three-day feast. The Pilgrims and the Wampanoags shared food, games, and stories. They also gave thanks to God for their harvest.
Thanksgiving Day became a national holiday in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it a day of thanksgiving and praise to God.
Today, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated with a big meal, parades, and football games. Many people also volunteer their time to help those in need on Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving Day is a special day to spend with family and friends. It is a day to be grateful for all that we have and to give back to our communities.
Here are some interesting facts about Thanksgiving Day:
- The average American eats about 4,500 calories on Thanksgiving Day.
- The most popular Thanksgiving Day food is turkey.
- The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held in 1924.
- The first Thanksgiving Day football game was played in 1876 between Yale and Princeton.
- Thanksgiving Day is the busiest travel day of the year in the United States.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2023 | November 23 |
| 2024 | November 28 |
| 2025 | November 27 |
Jours Fériés 2025: A Comprehensive Outlook
In the year 2025, France will celebrate a total of 11 public holidays. These holidays provide a welcome respite from the daily grind and offer opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and celebration. The list of public holidays for 2025 is as follows:
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- April 13: Easter Monday
- April 21: Labor Day
- May 1: Ascension Day
- May 8: VE Day
- May 29: Whit Monday
- July 14: Bastille Day
- August 15: Assumption of Mary
- November 1: All Saints’ Day
- November 11: Armistice Day
- December 25: Christmas Day
In addition to these public holidays, there are also several other special days and events that are celebrated in France. These include:
- January 6: Epiphany
- February 14: Valentine’s Day
- March 8: International Women’s Day
- May 12: Mother’s Day
- June 21: Father’s Day
- July 21: National Day (Fête Nationale)
- December 6: Saint Nicholas’ Day
People Also Ask About Jours Fériés 2025
How many public holidays are there in France in 2025?
There are 11 public holidays in France in 2025.
What is the most important public holiday in France?
Bastille Day (July 14) is the most important public holiday in France. It celebrates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, which marked the beginning of the French Revolution.
Do businesses close on public holidays in France?
Yes, most businesses close on public holidays in France. However, some businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, may remain open.
