Minnesota Public Holidays
Minnesota State Holidays
Searching for the public holidays in Minnesota? Most public holidays in Minnesota are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Minnesota employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Minnesota and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Minnesota, known for its stunning lakes, vibrant cities, and deep-rooted traditions, celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays range from federally recognized observances that commemorate important moments in U.S. history to state-specific holidays that reflect Minnesota’s rich cultural heritage and history. Each holiday offers a unique opportunity for reflection, celebration, and community engagement.
Overview of Public Holidays in Minnesota
Minnesota’s public holidays include a blend of national holidays observed across the United States and state-specific holidays that recognize the state’s heritage, traditions, and historical milestones. Public holidays in Minnesota serve to honor important historical events, commemorate the contributions of national figures, and celebrate the state’s culture and natural beauty.
These holidays are observed through various activities, including parades, ceremonies, family gatherings, and community events. While public sector employees generally receive time off for most holidays, private sector employees may not receive the same benefits depending on the employer. Below, we will explore the key public holidays in Minnesota.
Federal Holidays in Minnesota
Minnesota observes several federal holidays that commemorate important moments in American history, honor national figures, and encourage reflection on the country’s development.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Date: January 1
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: New Year’s Day marks the first day of the year and is widely celebrated across Minnesota. The holiday is a time for people to reflect on the past year, make resolutions for the year ahead, and spend time with family. Major cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul host various events, including fireworks displays, concerts, and parties to welcome the new year. For many, it is also a day for relaxation after the festivities of New Year’s Eve.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
Date: Third Monday in January
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a key leader in the Civil Rights Movement. The day is marked by community service projects, parades, and educational programs across Minnesota. The state holds a large celebration in Minneapolis, with events focusing on Dr. King’s message of equality, justice, and nonviolence. Schools and community organizations use the day to reflect on racial equality and social justice.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)
Date: Third Monday in February
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Presidents’ Day is dedicated to celebrating the birthdays of U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. It is a day to reflect on the leadership and impact of these presidents. Minnesota observes this holiday with educational programs, school events, and public ceremonies. Retailers also take advantage of the holiday for sales events, and many people enjoy a long weekend with family and friends.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
Date: Last Monday in May
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Memorial Day is a day to honor and remember U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the Armed Forces. Minnesota, with its strong military ties, observes Memorial Day with solemn ceremonies, parades, and visits to military cemeteries. Cities like Minneapolis, Duluth, and St. Paul host events to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. The holiday also marks the unofficial start of summer, with many families enjoying barbecues, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Independence Day (July 4)
Date: July 4
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Independence Day marks the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the birth of the United States. Minnesota celebrates the day with fireworks displays, parades, festivals, and barbecues. Cities like Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester hold grand celebrations, and many residents enjoy outdoor activities in the state’s beautiful parks and lakes. It is a day for residents to reflect on the nation’s founding and celebrate American freedoms.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Labor Day (First Monday in September)
Date: First Monday in September
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Labor Day honors the American labor movement and the contributions of workers to the country’s development. In Minnesota, the holiday is celebrated with parades, picnics, and community events. It marks the unofficial end of summer, and many families take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, or visiting the Minnesota State Fair. Labor Day is also a time for reflection on the importance of workers’ rights and labor unions.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Veterans Day (November 11)
Date: November 11
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces. Minnesota observes Veterans Day with ceremonies, parades, and events that recognize the sacrifices made by military veterans. Cities such as Minneapolis and St. Paul hold large parades to honor veterans, and many people use the day to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
Date: Fourth Thursday in November
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Thanksgiving Day is a time to give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. In Minnesota, Thanksgiving is marked by large family meals, often featuring turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Many people in Minnesota also use the day to volunteer and support those in need by helping at food banks or shelters. Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season, with many families preparing for Christmas and other year-end festivities.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Date: December 25
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely observed across Minnesota. It is a time for religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Many communities across Minnesota host Christmas parades, light displays, and performances, including in cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul. For many, it is a time of giving, and many people volunteer to help those less fortunate during the holiday season.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
State-Specific Holidays in Minnesota
In addition to the federal holidays, Minnesota observes several state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s unique culture, history, and values.
Minnesota Day (May 11)
Date: May 11
Type: State Holiday
Description: Minnesota Day celebrates the anniversary of the state’s admission to the Union on May 11, 1858. The day is observed with educational programs and public celebrations that highlight Minnesota’s growth from a territory to a state. Many schools in Minnesota use the day to teach students about the state’s history, from its early days to its role in the American Civil War and beyond.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Arbor Day (Last Friday in April)
Date: Last Friday in April
Type: State Holiday
Description: Arbor Day is dedicated to the planting and care of trees. Minnesota celebrates Arbor Day with tree-planting events, environmental education programs, and community activities. The state encourages residents to participate in local tree-planting events, particularly in schools and parks. Arbor Day is a day to reflect on the importance of environmental conservation and to contribute to the state’s green spaces.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Second Monday in October)
Date: Second Monday in October
Type: State Holiday
Description: Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates the contributions, cultures, and histories of Native American tribes. Minnesota is home to several indigenous groups, including the Dakota, Ojibwe, and other tribes, and the day is observed with cultural events, educational programs, and public ceremonies. The day is an opportunity to reflect on the indigenous people’s deep roots in the state and honor their contributions to Minnesota’s history.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Public Holiday Table in Minnesota
Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in Minnesota and the time off granted to public and private sector employees.
| Holiday | Date | Public Sector Employees Time Off | Private Sector Employees Time Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Yes | Varies |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Third Monday in January | Yes | Varies |
| Presidents’ Day | Third Monday in February | Yes | Varies |
| Memorial Day | Last Monday in May | Yes | Varies |
| Independence Day | July 4 | Yes | Varies |
| Labor Day | First Monday in September | Yes | Varies |
| Veterans Day | November 11 | Yes | Varies |
| Thanksgiving Day | Fourth Thursday in November | Yes | Varies |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Yes | Varies |
| Minnesota Day | May 11 | Yes | Varies |
| Arbor Day | Last Friday in April | Yes | Varies |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Second Monday in October | Yes | Varies |
