The Christmas season in the United States brings a special update in 2025, especially for federal government employees. This year, changes to the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day schedule mean extended time off for many workers due to a temporary executive decision.
Normally, Christmas holidays follow a fixed calendar. However, this year’s adjustment allows eligible federal employees to enjoy a longer break. Understanding these changes is important for planning travel, shopping, family gatherings, and official work schedules.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in the United States
In 2025, many federal employees will receive time off on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and an additional day following Christmas. This adjustment applies mainly to non-essential federal workers.
Employees involved in essential services such as national security, public safety, and emergency operations may still be required to work depending on agency needs.
This change is temporary and applies only to the 2025 holiday season. It does not permanently change the federal holiday calendar.
Christmas Day Federal Holiday 2025 Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal authority | U.S. Federal Government executive order |
| Holiday focus | Christmas Eve and Christmas Day |
| Country | United States |
| Year | 2025 |
| Eligible employees | Federal government workers |
| Federal office closures | December 24, 25, and 26, 2025 |
| Related agencies | OPM and federal departments |
| Official updates | The White House |
Services Closed Nationwide During Christmas
Several services across the country pause operations during Christmas.
- United States Postal Service post offices
- Regular mail delivery on December 25
- UPS standard delivery and pickup
- Federal offices and agencies
- New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq
- FedEx delivery and most FedEx Office locations
Most services resume normal operations on December 26.
2025 Federal Christmas Holiday Status
The current holiday schedule applies only to this year.
| Holiday date | Status in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Christmas Eve (Dec 24) | Federal holiday |
| Christmas Day (Dec 25) | Federal holiday |
| December 26 | Federal holiday |
| Permanent change | No, temporary only |
Permanent holiday changes require approval from Congress.
Why the Christmas Holiday Schedule Changed in 2025
Several past and present factors influenced the 2025 schedule.
- Presidents have previously granted Christmas Eve holidays through executive authority
- Past administrations declared similar year-end holidays in select years
- Weekend-based Christmas dates have shifted observed holidays in earlier years
- For 2025, December 26 was added to provide an extended break
These changes are designed to support employee well-being rather than establish long-term policy.
What Is Open and Closed Around Christmas
Not all services follow the same schedule.
| Service | Dec 24 | Dec 25 | Dec 26 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal offices | Closed | Closed | Closed |
| Banks | Open | Closed | Open |
| USPS | Mostly open | Closed | Open |
| Major retailers | Limited hours | Closed | Open |
Hours may vary by location.
Holiday Schedule for Federal Employees
Federal workers may benefit from an extended year-end break.
- Non-essential federal employees receive time off on Dec 24 and Dec 26
- Essential employees may work based on operational requirements
- Private-sector employers are not required to follow this schedule
- Private company holiday policies may remain unchanged
This schedule allows many federal employees more time for rest and family celebrations.
Christmas Holiday Operating Hours
Despite federal office closures, many services remain available.
- Government agencies pause services on Christmas Day
- Mail delivery stops on December 25
- Mail processing may continue on December 24 and December 26
- Banks operate normally before and after Christmas Day
- Large retailers usually close only on December 25
Customers should confirm local business hours in advance.
Extended Federal Holiday for 2025
In 2025, federal employees receive an extended Christmas holiday including December 26. While most government offices will close, staff in critical roles may still be required to work.
This temporary holiday schedule does not apply to private businesses and does not change future federal holiday calendars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do federal employees get Christmas Eve off in 2025
Most non-essential federal employees do, but essential workers may still be required to work.
Are private companies required to follow this schedule
No. Private employers decide their own holiday policies.
Are banks and post offices closed
They close on Christmas Day and generally reopen on December 26.
Is December 26 now a permanent federal holiday
No. It is only recognized for 2025.
Where can official updates be checked
Official announcements are available through federal agencies and government websites.
Conclusion
The 2025 Christmas holiday schedule provides federal employees with an extended break, including closures on December 24, 25, and 26. While temporary, this change gives many workers extra time during the holiday season.
Federal employees should confirm details with their agencies, and the public should plan ahead for service closures. Since private businesses follow different rules, checking local schedules remains essential during Christmas week.