US Observed Federal Holidays 2026
In 2026 there is one observed federal holiday: Independence Day. Because July 4 is a Saturday, most federal employees get Friday, July 3 off instead, while July 4 remains the statutory date. Every other 2026 federal holiday falls on a weekday and is not shifted.
Dates in 2026
| Date | Day | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 3, 2026 | Friday | Independence Day (observed)Independence Day (Jul 4) falls on a Saturday, so most federal employees observe the holiday on Friday, Jul 3.Substitute holiday | Substitute holiday |
How observed (in-lieu) federal holidays are determined
For most federal employees on a Monday–Friday schedule, a holiday that falls on a Saturday is observed the preceding Friday, and one that falls on a Sunday is observed the following Monday (5 U.S.C. 6103(b) and Executive Order 11582). Only fixed-date holidays — New Year’s Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Veterans Day and Christmas — can shift; the "Monday" holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day and Columbus Day never need it.
States and private employers usually follow the same in-lieu rule, but it is not guaranteed — always check your state and employer calendar.
Official sources & data
- Federal Holidays — 2026Visit sourceU.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
- Holidays Work Schedules and PayVisit sourceU.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
Frequently asked questions
Is July 3, 2026 a federal holiday?
In effect, yes. Because Independence Day (July 4) is a Saturday, most federal employees observe the holiday on Friday, July 3, 2026.
Are there other observed federal holidays in 2026?
No. July 3 (for Independence Day) is the only observed shift in 2026; all other federal holidays fall on weekdays.
What does “observed” mean for a US federal holiday?
When a federal holiday falls on a weekend, most federal employees on a Monday–Friday schedule take the nearest weekday off instead: the preceding Friday for a Saturday holiday, the following Monday for a Sunday one.
What is the difference between the actual and the observed holiday date?
The actual date is set by law — July 4 for Independence Day. The observed date is the weekday federal employees get off when the actual date lands on a weekend. In 2026 the actual date is Saturday, July 4; the observed date is Friday, July 3.
Who follows the observed schedule?
Federal employees on a Monday–Friday schedule do, under 5 U.S.C. 6103(b). States and private employers usually follow the same in-lieu rule, but it is not guaranteed — check your state and employer calendar.
Is there mail delivery on July 3, 2026?
No. USPS follows the federal observed schedule, so post offices are closed and there is no regular mail delivery on Friday, July 3, 2026.