The Most Popular Holidays in the US (With Federal Holiday Info)

America is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, which means we’re lucky to have a calendar packed with meaningful, fun, and sometimes quirky holidays. Whether you’re filling in your printed calendar with family plans, or jotting down sweet messages for loved ones, knowing which holidays matter most is a great place to start.

Here’s a warm and welcoming guide to the most popular holidays in the US, why we celebrate them, and how families typically mark the occasion—plus a sprinkle of British flair for our UK readers!

The Most Popular US Holidays (in Calendar Order)

New Year’s Day (January 1)

New Year's Day marks the beginning of the calendar year. It's often celebrated with fireworks, parties, parades, and a resolution or two. A day to reset, recharge, and look ahead. Watching college football games and making resolutions are common traditions. Some families also enjoy a symbolic “good luck” meal, often including black-eyed peas or greens.

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: January 1 (Wednesday)
• 2026: January 1 (Thursday)
• 2027: January 1 (Friday)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)

Honouring the civil rights leader Dr. King, this day focuses on equality, justice, and public service. Many schools and organisations participate in community service projects. It’s not just a day off—it’s a day on, dedicated to acts of kindness and civic engagement. It's a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward racial equality.

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: January 20 (Monday)
• 2026: January 19 (Monday)
• 2027: January 18 (Monday)

Valentine’s Day (February 14)

A day of romance and appreciation for partners, friends, and family. Schools across the country see children exchanging colourful valentines and heart-shaped candies. While it's commercially driven, many people take the opportunity to reconnect and express love more intentionally. It’s also a fun day for singles to treat themselves or celebrate friendship.

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No
• 2025: February 14 (Friday)
• 2026: February 14 (Saturday)
• 2027: February 14 (Sunday)

St. Patrick’s Day (March 17)

Celebrated in honour of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, this holiday has become a lively cultural celebration in the US. Think green clothes, shamrocks, Irish music, and city-wide parades (especially in places like Chicago and Boston). Many people also take part in “wearing of the green” and dye their food—and even rivers—green!

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No
• 2025: March 17 (Monday)
• 2026: March 17 (Tuesday)
• 2027: March 17 (Wednesday)

Easter Sunday (March/April, date varies)

A Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. Also widely enjoyed with egg hunts, chocolate bunnies, and family brunches. Churches fill with flowers and music as congregations celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Families typically enjoy a springtime feast. It’s also a sign of new beginnings, both spiritually and seasonally.

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No (but often observed informally)
• 2025: April 20 (Sunday)
• 2026: April 5 (Sunday)
• 2027: March 28 (Sunday)

Mother’s Day (The Second Sunday in May)

Celebrating mothers and maternal figures with gifts, notes, and quality time. One of the most popular days for dining out. Restaurants are notoriously packed with brunch reservations, and florists see one of their busiest weekends. Handmade crafts from kids and heartfelt cards remain timeless gestures. It's also a day of remembrance for mothers who are no longer with us.

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No
• 2025: May 11 (Sunday)
• 2026: May 10 (Sunday)
• 2027: May 9 (Sunday)

Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)

A solemn day to remember US military personnel who died in service. Marked by ceremonies, flags, and the unofficial start of summer. Many families attend local parades or host backyard cookouts. It’s a day of solemn respect mixed with the hopeful energy of summer's arrival. Planning note: This is a top road trip weekend—plan ahead if you’re travelling!

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: May 26 (Monday)
• 2026: May 25 (Monday)
• 2027: May 31 (Monday)

Flag Day (June 14)

Commemorates the adoption of the US flag in 1777. While not widely celebrated across the country, some communities host flag-raising ceremonies or essay contests. It’s a great opportunity for educators and parents to talk with kids about American symbols. Pennsylvania is the only state that recognises it as a public holiday.

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: Observed in Pennsylvania
• 2025: June 14 (Saturday)
• 2026: June 14 (Sunday)
• 2027: June 14 (Monday)

Father’s Day (Third Sunday in June)

A day to honour dads and father figures. Dads often receive handmade cards, novelty ties, or handmade treasures. Outdoor activities like fishing, grilling, or a game of catch are favourites.

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No
• 2025: June 15 (Sunday)
• 2026: June 21 (Sunday)
• 2027: June 20 (Sunday)

Independence Day (July 4)

America’s birthday! Fireworks and picnics! Daytime activities often include patriotic parades, sack races, and watermelon-eating contests. It’s a true communal holiday, bringing neighbourhoods together.

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: July 4 (Friday)
• 2026: July 4 (Saturday)
• 2027: July 4 (Sunday)

Labor Day (First Monday in September)

Honours the American workforce and the contributions of labourers throughout history. Once rooted in union activism, Labor Day has evolved into a celebration of hard work and a farewell to summer. It's a popular weekend for short getaways, back-to-school shopping sprees, and big retail sales. Many families use the time to move house, drop kids off at college, or simply enjoy one last long weekend together. Planning note: This is a top road trip weekend—plan ahead if you’re travelling!

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: September 1 (Monday)
• 2026: September 7 (Monday)
• 2027: September 6 (Monday)

Halloween (October 31)

A spooky celebration with costumes, trick-or-treating, and pumpkins. Widely enjoyed by children and adults alike. Homes are decked out with skeletons, cobwebs, and eerie lighting weeks in advance. Trick-or-treating is a rite of passage for children, while adults often attend costume parties. It’s also grown into a major commercial event, second only to Christmas in spending. Fun fact: Americans spend $10 billion annually on Halloween!

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No
• 2025: October 31 (Friday)
• 2026: October 31 (Saturday)
• 2027: October 31 (Sunday)

Veterans Day (November 11)

Honours all US military veterans. Often marked with parades, ceremonies, and educational programs. Unlike Memorial Day, this holiday celebrates all who have served, living or deceased. Many businesses offer free meals to veterans, and schools host assemblies to teach students about military service. It's a patriotic day steeped in gratitude.

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in most states
• 2025: November 11 (Tuesday)
• 2026: November 11 (Wednesday)
• 2027: November 11 (Thursday)

Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)

A family-focused day of gratitude, food, and football. One of the most travelled holidays in the US. The day often starts with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and ends in a food coma after turkey, stuffing, and pie. Families share what they’re grateful for, sometimes writing it down or going around the table. It’s also a time to volunteer and help those in need. Calendar Tip: Add a gratitude note to your calendar for each family member. They’ll love seeing it pinned on the fridge!

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: November 27 (Thursday)
• 2026: November 26 (Thursday)
• 2027: November 25 (Thursday)

Christmas Day (December 25)

A major religious and cultural holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus. Children wake up early to find stockings full and presents under the tree. Caroling, cookie baking, and attending Christmas Eve services are cherished traditions. The festive spirit often carries on through the week, blending into New Year’s celebrations.

• Federal Holiday: Yes
• State Holiday: Yes in all states
• 2025: December 25 (Thursday)
• 2026: December 25 (Friday)
• 2027: December 25 (Saturday)

New Year’s Eve (December 31)

The final hurrah of the year. Celebrated with countdowns, fireworks, and festive parties. In cities like New York, massive crowds count down to midnight in iconic fashion. Champagne corks pop, confetti flies, and people share a kiss to welcome the new year. It’s a night of reflection and hope, steeped in both glamour and personal meaning. Tradition tip: Write your “word of the year” in your calendar – a single word to guide your goals.

• Federal Holiday: No
• State Holiday: No
• 2025: December 31 (Wednesday)
• 2026: December 31 (Thursday)
• 2027: December 31 (Friday)

Are State and Federal Holidays the Same?

No, they’re not the same. The US has federal holidays, and each state can choose to observe those—or add their own.

Federal Holidays

These are holidays recognized by the US federal government. There are currently 11 official federal holidays, including: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. On these days:

• Federal offices and banks close
• Most public schools and businesses also observe them, but it’s not required
• Private employers can choose whether or not to give the day off

State Holidays

Each state government can declare its own public holidays that may or may not match the federal list. For example:

• Cesar Chavez Day (March 31) is a holiday in California but not federally observed.
• Patriots’ Day (April 3rd Monday) is observed in Massachusetts and Maine, but not nationwide.
• Texas Independence Day (March 2) is celebrated only in Texas.

State holidays usually mean:

• State government offices and courts are closed
• Local public schools may close
• Private businesses decide individually whether to close

So What Should You Mark on Your Calendar?

✅ Federal Holidays – Definitely! These affect most national services.✅ State Holidays – Mark if they apply to your area (or your kids’ school schedule!).✅ Religious & Cultural Holidays – Mark for family traditions, messages, and celebrations.

Final Thoughts

No matter what holiday you celebrate or how you celebrate it, marking them on a calendar makes them more special. And when your calendar is filled with personal messages and plans, it becomes a keepsake in itself.

Don’t forget – with our calendar tool, you can create a printed calendar already filled with your events and notes. Perfect for fridge doors, family noticeboards, or thoughtful gifts!