Missouri Public Holidays

Missouri State Holidays

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

Missouri, located in the Midwest region of the United States, is a state known for its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. The state celebrates a range of public holidays throughout the year, including federal holidays recognized across the country and state-specific holidays that highlight Missouri’s unique identity. These holidays provide a chance for residents to come together, honor historical events, reflect on the state’s heritage, and celebrate cultural traditions.

Overview of Public Holidays in Missouri

Public holidays in Missouri are a blend of federally recognized holidays and state-specific observances that hold particular significance to the state’s history and culture. Many of these holidays are observed with ceremonies, parades, community gatherings, and educational events, offering Missourians the chance to reflect on the achievements of the past while celebrating their shared heritage.

Public holidays are important for marking significant moments in Missouri’s history, such as the state’s admission to the Union or the legacy of important historical figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and George Washington. These holidays also provide time for people to gather with family, reflect on values, and participate in events that promote community engagement.

Federal Holidays in Missouri

Missouri, like every other state, observes several federal holidays that are celebrated across the United States. These holidays recognize key moments in American history, honor important figures, and provide an opportunity for Americans to reflect on their shared values.

New Year’s Day (January 1)

Date: January 1
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the year and is widely celebrated across Missouri. The holiday is a time for reflection on the past year, setting resolutions, and celebrating with family and friends. In larger cities such as St. Louis and Kansas City, there are fireworks displays and parties to ring in the new year. Many people in Missouri also spend the day relaxing and preparing for the year ahead.

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., the leader of the American Civil Rights Movement. Missouri observes this day with community service activities, educational programs, and public events that reflect on King’s contributions to racial equality. In St. Louis and Kansas City, there are often parades and ceremonies held to honor Dr. King’s commitment to justice and nonviolent change.

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 honors U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, as well as all U.S. presidents. In Missouri, Presidents’ Day is observed with educational activities and public events that focus on the leadership and accomplishments of past presidents. Many retailers also hold sales in honor of the holiday, and schools use the day to teach students about the history of the presidency.

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. Missouri observes Memorial Day with ceremonies, parades, and visits to military cemeteries. The holiday also marks the unofficial start of summer, and many people take advantage of the long weekend for family gatherings, barbecues, and outdoor activities. The National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City is an important site for those observing Memorial Day in Missouri.

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 celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the birth of the United States. Missouri celebrates Independence Day with fireworks, parades, and patriotic events. In cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia, large celebrations are held, including fireworks shows and public concerts. The holiday is a time for people to reflect on the nation’s founding and to celebrate the freedoms that make the United States unique.

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 economy. It is a day to recognize the achievements of labor unions and the importance of fair labor practices. In Missouri, Labor Day is celebrated with parades, picnics, and family gatherings. Many Missourians enjoy outdoor activities, while others use the long weekend to relax before the fall season begins.

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. It is a day of reflection and recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel. In Missouri, Veterans Day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and moments of reflection. The Missouri Veterans Memorial in Jefferson City and other landmarks across the state are visited by those honoring veterans on this day.

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 for giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. In Missouri, Thanksgiving is marked by family gatherings, large meals, and community events. The holiday also serves as a reminder of Missouri’s agricultural roots, particularly in farming communities. Many Missourians also volunteer during this time, helping to feed the hungry and support local food banks.

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 celebrated across Missouri. The holiday is marked by religious services, family gatherings, festive meals, and gift-giving. In addition to the religious aspects of the holiday, Christmas is a time for reflection, family bonding, and charitable giving. Cities like St. Louis and Kansas City host Christmas markets, light displays, and other holiday events.

Time Off:

• Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
• Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.

State-Specific Holidays in Missouri

In addition to the federal holidays, Missouri observes several state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s unique heritage, culture, and identity.

Missouri Day (Second Monday in October)

Date: Second Monday in October
Type: State Holiday
Description: Missouri Day celebrates the state’s rich history and recognizes the contributions that Missouri has made to the United States. On this day, schools and community organizations across the state hold educational events, historical exhibits, and celebrations. Missouri Day is an opportunity for residents to reflect on the state’s past, from its founding to its role in shaping the nation.

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. The holiday originated in Nebraska but is widely observed across the United States, including Missouri. On Arbor Day, Missouri residents participate in tree-planting events and other activities that promote environmental stewardship. Schools, local governments, and environmental groups often organize events to educate the public about the importance of trees.

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 recognizes and celebrates the heritage, culture, and contributions of Native American communities. In Missouri, this day is particularly important due to the significant Native American history in the state, including the Osage, Shawnee, and Kickapoo tribes. The holiday is observed with cultural events, ceremonies, and educational programs designed to highlight the history and ongoing contributions of Native American people.

Time Off:

• Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
• Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.

Public Holiday Table in Missouri

Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in Missouri and the typical 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
Missouri Day	Second Monday in October	Yes	Varies
Arbor Day	Last Friday in April	Yes	Varies
Indigenous Peoples’ Day	Second Monday in October	Yes	Varies