Georgia Public Holidays

Georgia State Holidays

Searching for the public holidays in Georgia? Most public holidays in Georgia are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Georgia employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Georgia and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.

Georgia, a state known for its rich history, southern hospitality, and vibrant culture, celebrates a range of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays not only commemorate national events but also reflect Georgia’s unique history, including its ties to the Civil War, its agricultural roots, and the significant cultural contributions of its diverse communities.

Federal Holidays in Georgia

New Year’s Day (January 1)

New Year’s Day is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Georgia. The first day of the year marks a fresh start, with festivities ranging from family gatherings and private parties to public celebrations. In cities like Atlanta and Savannah, special events and fireworks displays may accompany the New Year’s Eve festivities that transition into the New Year. For many, it is a day for reflection, resolutions, and rest after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Most are closed or have reduced hours.

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

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is one of the most significant public holidays in Georgia, where Dr. King was born and spent much of his life. This day honors his legacy in the civil rights movement and his advocacy for racial equality, justice, and nonviolent protest. In Georgia, the day is marked by a mix of educational programs, marches, and service events. Atlanta, Georgia’s largest city, hosts one of the most well-known parades, drawing visitors and locals to celebrate Dr. King’s impact.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Many remain open, but some may operate on reduced hours.

Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)

Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday that honors the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, as well as all U.S. presidents. It is widely observed across Georgia with educational events, sales promotions, and various commemorations of U.S. history. While the holiday is largely focused on the nation’s past presidents, many schools and institutions use the day to teach about their contributions to the country’s development.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Many hold sales events, while others remain open.

Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)

Memorial Day is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring military personnel who died in service to their country. In Georgia, it is a day of reflection, with ceremonies at war memorials, parades, and events to honor fallen soldiers. The day also marks the unofficial start of summer in Georgia, with many residents enjoying outdoor activities like barbecues and beach outings.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Open, although some may close early or operate with reduced hours.

Independence Day (July 4)

Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Georgia, with fireworks, parades, barbecues, and public festivals taking place throughout the state. Cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta host grand celebrations, including fireworks shows, music festivals, and patriotic displays. The day is filled with community activities, and it holds great significance in Georgia, where many people gather to reflect on American freedom and independence.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Most are closed or have reduced hours.

Labor Day (First Monday in September)

Labor Day is a holiday that honors the American workforce and the contributions of labor unions. In Georgia, Labor Day is often marked by family gatherings, parades, and outdoor events. The day is seen as the unofficial end of summer, and many Georgians take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy activities like barbecues, beach trips, and festivals.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Open, though some may close early or operate with reduced hours.

Veterans Day (November 11)

Veterans Day honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. In Georgia, the holiday is observed with ceremonies, parades, and educational events to recognize the service of veterans. The state’s large veteran population means that this holiday is of particular importance, and events often take place at local veterans’ organizations, military cemeteries, and community centers in cities like Augusta, Macon, and Atlanta.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed in some areas.
• Private businesses: Open in most areas, although some may hold special events for veterans.

Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)

Thanksgiving Day is a time for people to gather and give thanks for the blessings of the past year. Georgia, like many other states, celebrates Thanksgiving with family meals, typically featuring turkey, stuffing, and other traditional dishes. Many people also take time to volunteer and assist the less fortunate. The holiday is followed by Black Friday, which marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Most are closed, although some open later for Black Friday sales.

Christmas Day (December 25)

Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely observed in Georgia. The holiday is marked by family gatherings, gift exchanges, and religious services. Many communities host Christmas festivals and events, and Georgia is known for its beautiful holiday lights, especially in cities like Atlanta and Savannah. Christmas is a time of joy, reflection, and celebration.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Most are closed, particularly retail stores and government offices.

State Holidays in Georgia

In addition to the federally recognized holidays, Georgia also observes several state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s cultural, historical, and social importance.

Georgia Day (February 12)

Georgia Day celebrates the anniversary of Georgia’s founding on February 12, 1733. The day is an opportunity for Georgians to reflect on their state’s rich colonial history. Educational programs, reenactments, and community events are common, and it is a time for students and residents to learn about Georgia’s role in the formation of the United States.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off in some sectors.
• Schools: Observed in many schools with educational programs.
• Private businesses: Generally open.

Confederate Memorial Day (Last Monday in April)

Confederate Memorial Day is observed in Georgia to honor the soldiers of the Confederate Army who fought in the Civil War. The holiday, which has been officially observed since the late 1800s, is marked by ceremonies, memorial services, and educational programs focusing on Georgia’s Civil War history. While the holiday is recognized by the state, its observance has been controversial in some communities.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed in some areas.
• Private businesses: Open in most areas.

Independence Day (January 19)

Georgia observes a state-specific holiday on January 19 to celebrate the signing of the Georgia State Constitution. This day is observed with ceremonies, parades, and other public events that highlight Georgia’s significant role in U.S. history.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off in some areas.
• Schools: Closed in some districts.
• Private businesses: Open in most areas.

Holidays Observed by Specific Groups

Some holidays are observed by specific communities or groups in Georgia. These holidays reflect the state’s diverse population and religious practices.

Good Friday (Date Varies)

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. While not a public holiday in Georgia, many religious institutions observe Good Friday with church services, processions, and events. Some Christian communities in Georgia may also take the day off for religious observance.

Observance:

• Government employees: Not observed.
• Schools: Closed in some areas.
• Private businesses: Closed in some sectors.

Easter Sunday (Date Varies)

Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is widely observed across Georgia, particularly in Christian communities. Families often attend church services and gather for celebratory meals. Though it is not a public holiday, Easter Sunday holds great significance for Georgia’s Christian population.

Observance:

• Government employees: Not observed.
• Schools: Closed in some districts.
• Private businesses: Closed in some sectors.

Summary Table of Public Holidays and Observances in Georgia

Holiday	Date	Government Employees	Schools	Private Businesses
New Year’s Day	January 1	Yes	Closed	Varies
Martin Luther King Jr. Day	Third Monday in January	Yes	Closed	Varies
Presidents’ Day	Third Monday in February	Yes	Closed	Varies
Memorial Day	Last Monday in May	Yes	Closed	Varies
Independence Day	July 4	Yes	Closed	Varies
Labor Day	First Monday in September	Yes	Closed	Varies
Veterans Day	November 11	Yes	Varies	Open
Thanksgiving Day	Fourth Thursday in November	Yes	Closed	Varies
Christmas Day	December 25	Yes	Closed	Varies
Georgia Day	February 12	Yes (in some areas)	Varies	Open
Confederate Memorial Day	Last Monday in April	Yes	Varies	Open
Independence Day (State)	January 19	Yes	Varies	Open
Good Friday	Varies	Not observed	Varies	Varies
Easter Sunday	Varies	Not observed	Varies	Varies