Indiana Public Holidays

Indiana State Holidays

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

Indiana, a state known for its rich agricultural heritage, vibrant cities, and significant historical contributions, celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays include both federal observances and state-specific holidays that reflect Indiana’s unique culture, history, and values. From commemorating national milestones to celebrating local traditions, Indiana’s public holidays offer its residents and visitors a chance to reflect on the state’s past, connect with its present, and look forward to the future.

Federal Holidays in Indiana

New Year’s Day (January 1)

New Year’s Day is a widely celebrated holiday across Indiana, marking the first day of the year. It is a time for reflection, resolutions, and renewal. Many people in Indiana take the day to spend with family, rest, or attend special events, particularly in cities like Indianapolis, where celebrations such as fireworks displays and public gatherings are common. The winter season also gives residents an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities like ice skating or skiing at local resorts.

Observance:

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

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

Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a central figure in the U.S. civil rights movement. In Indiana, this day is celebrated with community service projects, educational programs, and parades. Major cities like Indianapolis hold marches and host special events focused on Dr. King’s teachings of equality and nonviolent protest. Schools and community organizations also participate by hosting discussions about racial equality and justice.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Open in most cases, but some may close early or have reduced hours.

Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)

Presidents’ Day celebrates the birthdays of U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, who are both historically significant figures. In Indiana, this holiday is celebrated through educational events, especially in schools where students learn about the contributions of these presidents. The day is also associated with retail sales, as many businesses offer discounts and promotions, and people enjoy the long weekend for leisure and family time.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Open, many with sales and promotions.

Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)

Memorial Day is a solemn day to honor the military personnel who died in service to their country. In Indiana, it is marked by ceremonies, parades, and services at veterans’ memorials, especially in cities like Indianapolis, where the Indiana War Memorial hosts significant events. The holiday also marks the unofficial start of summer, with many families enjoying barbecues, picnics, and outdoor activities in the state’s parks and lakes.

Observance:

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

Independence Day (July 4)

Independence Day is one of the most celebrated holidays in Indiana. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. In Indiana, the holiday is marked by fireworks displays, parades, and community festivals. Cities like Indianapolis and Evansville host large events with fireworks shows over the river and live music performances. Many Indiana residents also enjoy outdoor activities, barbecues, and family gatherings to celebrate American freedom and independence.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Most are closed, though some tourist areas remain open.

Labor Day (First Monday in September)

Labor Day honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. In Indiana, this holiday is marked by parades, outdoor events, and family gatherings. Many people take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics, camping, or visiting local attractions. Labor Day also signals the unofficial end of summer, with schools resuming after the holiday weekend.

Observance:

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

Veterans Day (November 11)

Veterans Day is a federal holiday to honor military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. In Indiana, the day is observed with ceremonies, parades, and community events. The state has a significant veteran population, and many local towns and cities, including Indianapolis, hold events to honor veterans’ service and sacrifice. The holiday is particularly significant in Indiana, where many veterans and their families participate in events across the state.

Observance:

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

Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)

Thanksgiving Day is a time for families to come together and give thanks for the blessings of the past year. In Indiana, the holiday is celebrated with large meals featuring turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Many people use the day to reflect on their achievements, spend time with loved ones, and help those in need through charity events and volunteer work. It also marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, with Black Friday following Thanksgiving Day.

Observance:

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

Christmas Day (December 25)

Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely observed across Indiana. The holiday is marked by family gatherings, religious services, and festive meals. Cities like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne are known for their beautiful holiday lights and Christmas-themed events, such as Christmas markets and ice skating rinks. Christmas is a time for reflection, charity, and joy, with many spending the day enjoying time with family or volunteering for community causes.

Observance:

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

State Holidays in Indiana

In addition to the federal holidays, Indiana observes several state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s history, culture, and traditions.

Indiana Day (December 11)

Indiana Day commemorates the anniversary of the state’s admission to the Union on December 11, 1816. This state-specific holiday marks Indiana’s transformation from a territory to a state. Though not widely celebrated as a public holiday, Indiana Day is recognized by schools, museums, and government buildings, with special educational programs and historical events focused on the state’s history.

Observance:

• Government employees: May have the day off in some sectors.
• Schools: Observed with educational activities.
• Private businesses: Generally open.

Emancipation Day (May 20)

Emancipation Day is a state holiday that marks the date in 1863 when the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into law. While Indiana was a free state, this day is observed to recognize the broader fight for freedom and equality. Events often include educational programs, discussions on civil rights history, and reflections on the state’s contributions to the abolitionist movement.

Observance:

• Government employees: Not a statewide holiday but may be observed in some sectors.
• Schools: Observed in some areas.
• Private businesses: Open.

Holidays Observed by Specific Groups

Some holidays are celebrated by specific cultural or religious communities in Indiana, reflecting the state’s diverse population.

Good Friday (Date Varies)

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. While not a public holiday in Indiana, it is observed by many Christian communities with church services and religious observances. Some businesses, particularly in religious and educational sectors, may close or operate with reduced hours.

Observance:

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

Easter Sunday (Date Varies)

Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is widely observed across Indiana. While not a public holiday, Easter is marked by church services, family gatherings, and various community events. Many people also enjoy Easter egg hunts and festive meals with their loved ones.

Observance:

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

Juneteenth (June 19)

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, particularly the day when enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom on June 19, 1865. While not an official public holiday until recently, Juneteenth has grown in recognition across Indiana, particularly within African American communities. The day is marked by cultural celebrations, educational programs, and community events focused on African American history and culture.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Observed in some districts.
• Private businesses: Open, though some businesses host Juneteenth events.

Summary Table of Public Holidays and Observances in Indiana

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
Indiana Day	December 11	Yes (in some sectors)	Varies	Open
Emancipation Day	May 20	Not observed	Varies	Open
Good Friday	Varies	Not observed	Varies	Varies
Easter Sunday	Varies	Not observed	Varies	Varies
Juneteenth	June 19	Yes	Varies	Varies