Is Christmas Eve a holiday in the US? Here's all you need to know

Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday in the United States of America. However, on some years, federal employees can have the day off due to an executive order from Presidents, such as that of Joe Biden or Donald Trump. As of Christmas Eve 2024, at the direction of President Biden, federal employees are to have the holiday on December 24, the eve of Christmas, according to an executive order.

All executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government will be closed, and employees will be excused from duty Tuesday, December 24, 2024", The White House said. This decision opens doors for millions of federal workers to spend more time with family during the holidays, some offices will continue to operate, depending on organizational requirements.

How Presidents Handle Christmas Eve

Whether to observe christmas eve as a day off for federal workers is a decision made by different administrations. For instance:


Donald Trump: Granted the day off during his presidency in 2018, 2019, and 2020.

Barack Obama: Gave federal employees a holiday on December 26, 2014, instead of Christmas Eve.

George W. Bush: Made December 24 a day off more than once during his presidency.

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The degree of flexibility is provided by the president's power to issue executive orders declaring holidays.

What’s Open and Closed on Christmas Eve 2024?

Although the banks, post offices, and delivery services are closed at the national level, their operations might be different. Departments heads might choose to keep some businesses and government facilities open. Mail delivery schedules may also vary between organizations.

In the United States, 11 federal holidays are observed each year, with Inauguration Day added to the calendar in 2025. This holiday is only for federal workers in Washington, D.C. and some federal offices.

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FAQs:

Why is granting Christmas Eve off significant?
It gives federal employees time to spend with family during the festive season and continues a tradition of spreading holiday cheer.

Is Christmas Eve a federal holiday in the U.S.?
No, Christmas Eve is not an official federal holiday, but federal employees may get the day off if the president signs an executive order.