Kansas Public Holidays

Kansas State Holidays

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

Kansas, located in the central part of the United States, is known for its vast plains, agricultural roots, and rich history. The state’s public holidays reflect both national observances and state-specific celebrations that honor its heritage and cultural diversity. From federal holidays like New Year’s Day and Independence Day to Kansas-specific observances, these holidays provide opportunities for reflection, commemoration, and connection within the state.

Federal Holidays in Kansas

New Year’s Day (January 1)

New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the new year and is widely celebrated across Kansas. It is a time for celebration, reflection, and resolutions. Many people in Kansas take the day off to rest and recover from New Year’s Eve festivities. The holiday is often marked by family gatherings, fireworks, and community events in larger cities like Wichita and Kansas City. For those living in rural areas, outdoor activities such as skiing or snowshoeing are popular.

Observance:

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

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

Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement. In Kansas, this day is observed with various activities such as community service projects, educational programs, and parades. Cities like Topeka and Wichita hold events to commemorate King’s vision of racial equality, justice, and nonviolent protest. It is a day to reflect on the ongoing work for civil rights and social justice.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Open in most cases, although some may operate on reduced hours.

Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)

Presidents’ Day honors U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. In Kansas, this holiday is observed with educational programs that focus on the contributions of U.S. presidents to the nation’s development. Schools and museums often hold events and exhibitions that highlight historical facts about the country’s leaders. Retail businesses also participate in sales events, making Presidents’ Day a popular shopping holiday.

Observance:

• Government employees: Have the day off.
• Schools: Closed.
• Private businesses: Open, many holding sales events.

Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)

Memorial Day is a solemn holiday dedicated to honoring military personnel who have died in service to the United States. In Kansas, this day is marked by ceremonies at military cemeteries, parades, and services honoring the fallen. Many Kansas communities, particularly in cities like Topeka, Lawrence, and Wichita, host events at local memorials. The holiday also marks the unofficial start of summer, with many people enjoying barbecues, outdoor activities, and time with family.

Observance:

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

Independence Day (July 4)

Independence Day is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Kansas. It commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and in Kansas, it is marked with fireworks displays, parades, and family gatherings. Cities like Kansas City, Topeka, and Wichita host large celebrations, including fireworks shows and concerts. For many Kansas residents, the holiday is an opportunity to celebrate American freedom, enjoy outdoor activities, and participate in civic events.

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 honors the American workforce and the contributions of labor unions. In Kansas, the holiday is observed with parades, festivals, and outdoor events. It is also considered the unofficial end of summer, with many people taking advantage of the long weekend for leisure activities. Cities like Wichita host events to highlight the role of workers in the state’s economy, and many Kansas residents enjoy barbecues, picnics, and outdoor recreation.

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 United States Armed Forces. Kansas holds ceremonies and parades to honor veterans, with major events occurring in cities like Wichita and Kansas City. Local veterans’ organizations often host special events, and schools may hold educational programs to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices made by veterans. Many public places, including the Kansas State Capitol, hold ceremonies to honor veterans.

Observance:

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

Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)

Thanksgiving Day is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Kansas. Families gather to give thanks for the blessings of the past year. The holiday is often marked by large meals, including turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Kansas is also known for community service during Thanksgiving, with many people volunteering at food banks and shelters. The following day, Black Friday, is a busy shopping day, with many retailers offering deep discounts.

Observance:

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

Christmas Day (December 25)

Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely observed across Kansas. The holiday is marked by family gatherings, gift exchanges, and religious services. In Kansas, Christmas is celebrated with festive meals, decorations, and events such as Christmas parades and light displays in cities like Topeka and Wichita. For many, it is a time to reflect on the past year, share goodwill, and spend time with loved ones.

Observance:

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

State Holidays in Kansas

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

Kansas Day (January 29)

Kansas Day celebrates the anniversary of Kansas’ admission to the United States on January 29, 1861. This day marks the state’s journey from a territory to statehood and is a celebration of Kansas’ heritage. Schools and government buildings often hold special programs or events to educate residents about Kansas’ history. Many people in Kansas use the day to reflect on the state’s contributions to the U.S.

Observance:

• Government employees: May have the day off in some sectors.
• Schools: Often observed with educational programs.
• Private businesses: Open.

Emancipation Day (January 1)

Emancipation Day commemorates the day that enslaved people in Kansas were freed following the Civil War. Although Kansas was a free state, Emancipation Day serves as a reminder of the broader struggle for freedom and equality. It is observed with educational programs, community service events, and public discussions about Kansas’ role in the abolitionist movement.

Observance:

• Government employees: Not observed by all.
• Schools: Observed in some districts.
• Private businesses: Open.

Holidays Observed by Specific Groups

Some holidays are celebrated by specific communities or groups in Kansas, reflecting the state’s diverse population.

Good Friday (Date Varies)

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many Christian communities in Kansas observe Good Friday with church services and rituals. Although it is not a public holiday, some businesses, particularly those in the 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 Kansas, particularly in Christian communities. Although it is not a public holiday, Easter Sunday is an important religious and cultural observance in Kansas. People attend church services, share festive meals, and participate in family activities like Easter egg hunts.

Observance:

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

Juneteenth (June 19)

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the U.S. While Juneteenth was not historically recognized as a public holiday in Kansas, it has gained recognition in recent years, particularly in African American communities. The day is marked by celebrations, educational events, and cultural programs to reflect on the history of slavery, freedom, and the African American experience in Kansas.

Observance:

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

Summary Table of Public Holidays and Observances in Kansas

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
Kansas Day	January 29	Yes (in some sectors)	Varies	Open
Emancipation Day	January 1	Varies	Varies	Open
Good Friday	Varies	Not observed	Varies	Varies
Easter Sunday	Varies	Not observed	Varies	Varies
Juneteenth	June 19	Yes	Varies	Varies