In the United States, federal holidays are an opportunity for Americans to relax and spend time with family. During this time, most businesses and institutions remain closed. It is important to consider this when planning business activities with American partners. It is also worth remembering that these holidays are mostly movable, so their dates vary each year. In the following article, we will describe US holidays 2025.
US holidays 2025
New Year’s Day
January 1, 2025
In the US, New Year’s Day is celebrated with grandeur, and most businesses are closed. The largest celebrations usually take place in New York, where thousands gather in Times Square to ring in the new year during the famous countdown. This event attracts not only locals but also tourists from around the world.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
January 20, 2025
In the US, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent leader in the civil rights movement and advocate for racial equality. King was a pastor, social activist, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. His steadfast commitment to peaceful resistance and combating discrimination contributed to social changes in America. His death in 1968 prompted the establishment of this holiday, aimed at continuing his legacy of advocating for justice and equality for all citizens.
Presidents’ Day
February 17, 2025
In the US, Presidents’ Day, observed on the third Monday of February, commemorates the contributions and legacy of all American presidents, especially George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Their exceptional leadership and achievements played a crucial role in shaping the history and development of the United States.
Celebrations include ceremonies, parades, and other public events where homage is paid to the presidents and their legacy, which has shaped the national identity and progress of the United States.
Memorial Day
May 26, 2025
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a day to honor the fallen soldiers who gave their lives in service to the United States. It was initially established in memory of soldiers who died during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865.
Memorial Day celebrations often include solemn ceremonies at military cemeteries, where flowers or American flags are placed on soldiers’ graves. This day also serves as a good opportunity for rest and family gatherings.
Juneteenth
June 19, 2025
Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the announcement of the emancipation of slaves in Texas in 1865. Its celebrations are particularly significant for the Black American community. The holiday pays tribute to the end of slavery in the US and celebrates freedom and equality.
Americans participate in parades, concerts, cultural events, and panel discussions that emphasize the importance of freedom and the struggle for civil rights.
Independence Day
July 4, 2025
Independence Day in the US is celebrated on July 4th, commemorating the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This symbolic holiday honors the birth of the American nation and the values of freedom and democracy.
Americans celebrate it by organizing picnics, barbecues, and fireworks displays, as well as participating in parades and concerts that highlight the spirit of national unity and patriotism. It is a public holiday, and all businesses and schools are closed on this day.
Labor Day
September 1, 2025
Labor Day in the US, observed on the first Monday of September since 1894, commemorates the contributions of workers to the country’s development and the fight for labor rights. It was initially established in response to a strike by workers who were fighting for decent working conditions and an eight-hour workday.
On this day, Americans often relax, organize picnics, spend time with family and friends, and participate in parades and festivals.
Columbus Day
October 13, 2025
Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday of October, commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus to America in 1492. The holiday is also celebrated in other countries in the Americas and in Spain. Although initially intended to honor the discovery of the new continent, it is now a controversial issue due to the impact of colonization on indigenous populations. On Columbus Day, Americans participate in themed parades, festivals, and events.
Veterans Day
November 11, 2025
Veterans Day, observed on November 11th since 1919, commemorates veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday was established after the end of World War I to honor soldiers and the sacrifices of those who served in the military. On this day, Americans participate in parades and memorial ceremonies and pay tribute to fallen veterans. It is also an opportunity to express gratitude for their service to the country.
Thanksgiving
November 27, 2025
Thanksgiving Day in the US is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. It was established by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, during the Civil War, as a time of gratitude for abundant harvests and blessings of life. The first celebrations were related to communal feasting and gratitude for successful harvests after harsh winters, by European settlers and Native Americans.
Currently, the holiday has taken on a more universal character of gratitude for all the blessings of life. Americans spend this day with family and friends, enjoying traditional dishes such as roasted turkey and pumpkin pie.
Christmas Day
December 25, 2025
Christmas in the US celebrated on December 25th, is a time of joyful celebration and spending time with family. To prepare for this day, Americans decorate their homes, hang lights, and decorate the Christmas tree. On Christmas morning, presents are opened, and in the evening, the whole family gathers for a communal dinner with traditional dishes such as roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.
US holidays 2025 and business affairs
It is worth noting that federal holidays in the US, especially Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, are days off work, and most companies and banks remain closed. Delays in financial transactions and stock market closures can disrupt international supply chains. Periods of communication blackout with US partners affect decision-making processes, requiring international businesses to adjust operations and account for these breaks for smoother trade interactions. Therefore, it is important to carefully review the holiday calendar and plan business activities in advance.
