Is Today A Federal Holiday? [2024 Federal Holiday Calendar]

Nick Leason
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Is Today A Federal Holiday? [2024 Federal Holiday Calendar]

Are you wondering if the mail will be delivered today or if banks are open? Knowing whether it's a federal holiday can impact your day-to-day plans. This guide provides a quick and easy way to determine if today is a federal holiday, and includes the complete 2024 federal holiday calendar.

Key Takeaways

  • Quickly determine if today is a federal holiday.
  • Access the full list of 2024 US federal holidays.
  • Understand the impact of federal holidays on government services and businesses.
  • Learn about the history and significance of each federal holiday.

Introduction

Federal holidays in the United States are designated by the U.S. Congress. Federal law (5 U.S.C. § 6103) establishes these holidays. They are observed by most federal government offices and many private-sector businesses. Knowing which days are federal holidays is helpful for planning purposes, such as scheduling appointments, anticipating mail delivery delays, or understanding bank closures. Ravens Vs. Vikings: Game Analysis & Predictions

What is a Federal Holiday & Why Do They Matter?

What are Federal Holidays? Federal holidays are specific days recognized by the United States government for various historical, cultural, or patriotic reasons. On these days, most federal government offices are closed, and many private-sector businesses follow suit.

Why do Federal Holidays Matter? Federal holidays impact various aspects of daily life:

  • Government Services: Most federal offices, including post offices and DMVs, are closed. This can affect services like mail delivery, passport processing, and government transactions.
  • Banking: Banks are generally closed on federal holidays, although online banking services usually remain available. This can affect your ability to access banking services in person.
  • Businesses: Many private-sector businesses observe federal holidays, providing employees with paid time off. However, some businesses, such as retail stores and restaurants, may remain open.
  • Planning: Knowing the federal holiday calendar helps you plan ahead for potential closures and service disruptions.

2024 Federal Holiday Calendar

Here is a list of the federal holidays observed in the United States in 2024:

Holiday Date Day of the Week Observed By
New Year's Day January 1 Monday All
Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday January 15 Monday All
Washington's Birthday February 19 Monday All
Memorial Day May 27 Monday All
Juneteenth National Independence Day June 19 Wednesday All
Independence Day July 4 Thursday All
Labor Day September 2 Monday All
Columbus Day October 14 Monday Most, some by Indigenous People's Day
Veterans Day November 11 Monday All
Thanksgiving Day November 28 Thursday All
Christmas Day December 25 Wednesday All

How to Determine if Today is a Federal Holiday

  1. Check the Date: Compare today's date with the 2024 Federal Holiday Calendar above.
  2. Consult Online Resources: Numerous websites and apps provide information about federal holidays. A simple online search for "US federal holidays" will yield reliable sources.
  3. Check Official Government Websites: The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website (https://www.opm.gov/) provides a comprehensive list of federal holidays.

Examples & Use Cases

  • Planning Travel: If you're planning a trip, knowing federal holidays can help you anticipate potential traffic delays and business closures.
  • Scheduling Appointments: Avoid scheduling appointments with government agencies or banks on federal holidays.
  • Mail Delivery: Be aware that mail delivery is typically suspended on federal holidays.
  • Banking Transactions: Plan your banking transactions accordingly, as banks are usually closed.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

Best Practices:

  • Plan Ahead: Check the federal holiday calendar well in advance to avoid disruptions.
  • Confirm Business Hours: If you need to visit a specific business, call ahead to confirm their holiday hours.
  • Use Online Resources: Utilize online calendars and resources to stay informed about upcoming holidays.

Common Mistakes:

  • Assuming All Businesses are Closed: Some businesses, particularly retail and hospitality, may remain open on federal holidays.
  • Forgetting About Mail Delays: Don't expect mail delivery on federal holidays.
  • Ignoring Bank Closures: Plan your banking transactions accordingly.

FAQs

1. What happens if a federal holiday falls on a weekend?

If a federal holiday falls on a Saturday, it is observed on the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, it is observed on the following Monday.

2. Are all businesses required to close on federal holidays?

No, only federal government offices are required to close. Many private-sector businesses choose to close, but some, like retail stores and restaurants, may remain open.

3. Is mail delivered on federal holidays?

No, the United States Postal Service (USPS) typically does not deliver mail on federal holidays.

4. Are banks open on federal holidays?

Most banks are closed on federal holidays, although online banking services usually remain available. SNAP Benefits & Government Shutdowns: What You Need To Know

5. Where can I find the official list of federal holidays?

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website (https://www.opm.gov/) provides the official list of federal holidays.

6. Is Juneteenth a federal holiday?

Yes, Juneteenth National Independence Day, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, became a federal holiday in 2021.

Conclusion

Knowing the federal holiday calendar helps you plan your year effectively. Whether you're scheduling appointments, anticipating mail delivery, or planning a trip, understanding which days are federal holidays is essential. Refer to this guide throughout the year to stay informed and prepared. For the most up-to-date information, always consult the official U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website.

Plan your year ahead – check the calendar and see if today is a federal holiday! Federal Way Weather: Forecast, Conditions & More


Last updated: October 26, 2023, 14:30 UTC

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