New Hampshire Public Holidays
New Hampshire State Holidays
Searching for the public holidays in New Hampshire? Most public holidays in New Hampshire are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the New Hampshire employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to New Hampshire and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Hampshire, a state in the northeastern United States, is known for its beautiful landscapes, from the White Mountains to its charming small towns. The state has a deep historical significance, with its pivotal role in the American Revolution and its identity shaped by its early settlers and unique cultural heritage. New Hampshire observes a number of public holidays that reflect its national and state history, its values, and the communities that have shaped the state. These holidays provide an opportunity for residents to honor their traditions, reflect on important moments, and spend time with family and friends.
Overview of Public Holidays in New Hampshire
Public holidays in New Hampshire include both federal holidays, which are recognized across the United States, and state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s history, cultural values, and historical milestones. These holidays are observed through various activities, ceremonies, and celebrations, allowing residents to honor key figures, events, and contributions to the development of New Hampshire and the nation.
While public sector employees typically receive time off on these holidays, the policies for private sector employees can vary. Most public holidays in New Hampshire are either federal observances or those celebrating New Hampshire’s unique history, such as the state’s own commemoration of its founding.
Federal Holidays in New Hampshire
New Hampshire observes many of the same federal holidays as other states. These holidays serve as a way to commemorate important events in U.S. history, honor influential leaders, and recognize key moments in the nation’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 celebrated across the United States. In New Hampshire, people celebrate the day with family gatherings, parties, and other social events. Many also use the day to reflect on the past year, make resolutions, and prepare for the year ahead. In cities like Manchester and Concord, New Year’s Day may be celebrated with fireworks or special community events.
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., one of the most influential leaders in the American Civil Rights Movement. This federal holiday is celebrated across New Hampshire with educational programs, community service events, and parades. It provides an opportunity to reflect on King’s efforts to promote racial equality, nonviolence, and social justice. Many communities also host events and discussions on civil rights issues.
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 celebrates the birthdays of U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. This holiday is observed throughout New Hampshire with public events, educational activities, and often retail sales. Many people take the day off to relax, while schools use the day to teach students about American presidents and their contributions to the country’s development.
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 the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the Armed Forces. In New Hampshire, Memorial Day is marked with ceremonies, parades, and visits to military cemeteries, particularly in towns like Concord and Portsmouth. The holiday also marks the unofficial start of summer, with many people in New Hampshire 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 celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the birth of the United States. In New Hampshire, this holiday is marked by fireworks, parades, and festivals. Many cities and towns across the state hold events such as fireworks displays, concerts, and barbecues. It is a time for New Hampshire residents to celebrate American freedom, independence, and history.
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 contributions of American workers and the labor movement. In New Hampshire, the holiday is observed with parades, picnics, and family gatherings. It is also seen as the unofficial end of summer, and many families take advantage of the long weekend to travel, enjoy outdoor activities, or spend time together.
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 is a day to honor all U.S. military veterans, both living and deceased, who have served in the Armed Forces. In New Hampshire, Veterans Day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and events that recognize the sacrifices of veterans. Many towns and cities hold special ceremonies at veterans’ memorials to pay respect to those who have served.
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. New Hampshire celebrates this holiday with large family meals, often featuring turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. It is also a time for people to volunteer at food banks, shelters, and community organizations. The holiday also marks the beginning of the holiday season, with many people preparing for Christmas and other end-of-year celebrations.
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. In New Hampshire, Christmas is widely celebrated, with religious observances, festive meals, and family gatherings. Many towns in New Hampshire also host holiday events such as tree lightings, festivals, and performances. It is a time of giving, and many people take the opportunity to volunteer or donate to those in need.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
State-Specific Holidays in New Hampshire
New Hampshire also observes several state-specific holidays that reflect its unique history and cultural values. These holidays may focus on local historical events or figures that have contributed significantly to the development of the state.
New Hampshire Primary Day (Second Tuesday in March)
Date: Second Tuesday in March
Type: State Holiday
Description: New Hampshire Primary Day is held in the state to coincide with the New Hampshire Presidential Primary election. It is an important event in the political cycle, as New Hampshire holds the first primary in the United States. Voter participation is a key part of the celebration, and the day is observed with increased focus on civic engagement and electoral history.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Patriots’ Day (Third Monday in April)
Date: Third Monday in April
Type: State Holiday
Description: Patriots’ Day commemorates the battles of Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts, which marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War. Although not a full public holiday, New Hampshire observes this day with events that highlight the state’s early involvement in the Revolution. The holiday is marked by educational programs, community events, and historical reenactments, especially in towns with historical significance.
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 is observed in New Hampshire to honor and recognize the Native American tribes and communities that were the original inhabitants of the region. This holiday is a time to reflect on indigenous cultures, their history, and their contributions to the state. In New Hampshire, various communities hold events to educate the public about the indigenous people who lived in the area before European settlers arrived.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Public Holiday Table in New Hampshire
Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in New Hampshire and the typical time off for both 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 |
New Hampshire Primary Day | Second Tuesday in March | Yes | Varies |
Patriots’ Day | Third Monday in April | Yes | Varies |
Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Second Monday in October | Yes | Varies |