Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday in the United States. However, Christmas Day, which falls on December 25, is a federal holiday. In 2016, Christmas Day fell on a Sunday, which meant that the federal holiday was observed on the following Monday, December 26.
Although Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday, many businesses and organizations close early on December 24 to allow employees to prepare for the holiday. Additionally, some states and local governments may observe Christmas Eve as a state or local holiday.
Understanding Federal Holidays
Federal holidays are public holidays that are recognized by the federal government. These holidays are typically observed by all federal agencies, including federal offices, courts, and banks. Federal holidays are usually celebrated on a specific date each year, although some may be observed on a Monday or Friday if the actual date falls on a weekend.
In the United States, there are 10 federal holidays that are recognized by the federal government. These holidays include:
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January)
- Presidents' Day (third Monday in February)
- Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (first Monday in September)
- Columbus Day (second Monday in October)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
State and Local Holidays
In addition to federal holidays, some states and local governments observe additional holidays that may not be recognized by the federal government. These holidays may include state-specific holidays, such as Patriots' Day in Massachusetts or Juneteenth in Texas, or local holidays that are specific to a particular city or county.
State and local holidays may be observed on a specific date each year, or they may be observed on a Monday or Friday if the actual date falls on a weekend. Additionally, some states and local governments may close offices or observe a half-day on Christmas Eve, even if it is not a federal holiday.
Business and Organizational Closures
Many businesses and organizations close on Christmas Day, which is a federal holiday. However, some businesses may also close on Christmas Eve, especially if they are located in areas with high concentrations of holiday shoppers or if they are in industries that are traditionally closed on holidays.
Some examples of businesses that may close on Christmas Eve include:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants and bars
- Banks and financial institutions
- Government offices
- Schools and universities
However, some businesses may remain open on Christmas Eve, especially if they are in industries that are traditionally busy on holidays, such as:
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Emergency services
- Transportation services (e.g., airports, bus stations)
- Hotels and hospitality services
Planning for Christmas Eve
If you are planning to shop, dine out, or conduct business on Christmas Eve, it's a good idea to call ahead to confirm hours of operation. Many businesses may have special holiday hours or closures on Christmas Eve, so it's best to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Additionally, if you are planning to travel on Christmas Eve, be sure to check with your airline, bus company, or other transportation provider to confirm schedules and availability.
Conclusion
While Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday, many businesses and organizations close early on December 24 to allow employees to prepare for the holiday. If you are planning to shop, dine out, or conduct business on Christmas Eve, be sure to call ahead to confirm hours of operation. Additionally, if you are planning to travel on Christmas Eve, be sure to check with your airline, bus company, or other transportation provider to confirm schedules and availability.
Is Christmas Eve a federal holiday?
+No, Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday. However, Christmas Day, which falls on December 25, is a federal holiday.
What businesses typically close on Christmas Eve?
+Retail stores, restaurants and bars, banks and financial institutions, government offices, and schools and universities typically close on Christmas Eve.
How can I plan for Christmas Eve?
+It's a good idea to call ahead to confirm hours of operation for any businesses or organizations you plan to visit on Christmas Eve. Additionally, check with your airline, bus company, or other transportation provider to confirm schedules and availability if you are planning to travel.