US Public Holiday Cheat Sheet 2027

Public holidays in the US mark nationally or state-recognized events and observances.

Federal and state governments officially recognize these dates, and public institutions usually observe them. Many private businesses also follow public holiday calendars, though practices vary by employer.

US labor law does not require private employers to observe public holidays. Employers decide how to handle these dates based on internal policy.

Federal recognition alone does not create an obligation to close or provide time off. Government offices and public sector roles typically follow official holiday schedules, while private businesses keep flexibility.

Federal law does not require paid time off for public holidays. Employers choose whether to offer paid holidays as part of their benefits.

Some treat public holidays as regular workdays, while others provide paid leave or premium pay. Understanding this difference helps set realistic expectations around holiday schedules.

States do not observe the same set of public holidays. Some holidays apply nationwide, while others only apply in specific states.

States may also recognize additional holidays or observe certain dates differently. These differences explain why holiday calendars vary across the US.

The US Public Holiday Cheat Sheet 2027 includes major federal holidays such as New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day, along with state-recognized holidays observed in specific states.

Each holiday appears with its date, day of the week, and the states that observe it. Local city observances and unofficial holidays are not included.