New Jersey Public Holidays
New Jersey State Holidays
Searching for the public holidays in New Jersey? Most public holidays in New Jersey are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the New Jersey employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to New Jersey and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Jersey, a state located in the northeastern part of the United States, is known for its historical significance, cultural diversity, and economic vitality. The state celebrates a variety of public holidays, which include both national holidays observed across the United States and state-specific holidays that reflect the unique history and identity of New Jersey. These holidays provide a time for residents to honor important events, commemorate historical figures, and come together as a community.
Overview of Public Holidays in New Jersey
Public holidays in New Jersey reflect both national milestones in American history and state-specific observances. Many of these holidays are part of the broader American holiday system, such as Memorial Day and Labor Day, but New Jersey also has some holidays that reflect the state’s own unique history, such as Lincoln’s Birthday and Governor’s Day.
These holidays offer a chance for New Jerseyans to reflect on their history, honor their culture, and celebrate their achievements. While the public sector generally enjoys paid time off for holidays, the private sector often varies depending on the employer. Many of these holidays are marked by public ceremonies, parades, festivals, community service projects, and family gatherings.
Federal Holidays in New Jersey
New Jersey celebrates many of the same federal holidays observed across the United States. These holidays are often centered around significant moments in American history, such as the birth of the nation, honoring military veterans, and celebrating the achievements of prominent leaders. Below are the key federal holidays observed in New Jersey.
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 with enthusiasm across the country. In New Jersey, like the rest of the United States, this day is a time to reflect on the past year, make resolutions, and enjoy festivities with family and friends. Major cities such as Newark and Jersey City celebrate the holiday with events like fireworks displays, concerts, and large public gatherings. Many New Jerseyans also take advantage of the holiday for relaxation and time spent with loved ones.
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 is a federal holiday that honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a key leader in the American Civil Rights Movement. Dr. King’s work for racial equality and social justice is remembered nationwide, and in New Jersey, this day is marked with parades, community service activities, and educational programs. The day is meant to reflect on the progress made toward racial equality and to promote continuing work towards a more just and inclusive society.
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 celebrated in honor of U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. It is also a day for recognizing the contributions of all U.S. presidents. In New Jersey, the day is observed with events that reflect on the leadership and impact of past presidents. Many schools and educational institutions hold programs to teach about the role of presidents in American history, and retailers often host special sales in connection with the holiday.
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 honors U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the Armed Forces. In New Jersey, this holiday is marked by parades, ceremonies at war memorials, and visits to military cemeteries. Many New Jerseyans also observe the day by spending time with family and friends. Memorial Day also signifies the unofficial start of summer, and many people take advantage of the long weekend for 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 as an independent nation. In New Jersey, the holiday is celebrated with fireworks displays, parades, and various community events. Cities like Jersey City and Hoboken often host large events that attract both locals and tourists. The day is marked by family gatherings, barbecues, and a strong sense of national pride.
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 workers have made to the country’s development. It is celebrated with parades, picnics, and family outings. In New Jersey, many people use the long weekend to enjoy the last bit of summer with outdoor activities, beach trips, or barbecues. It is also a day to reflect on the importance of fair working conditions and the contributions of the labor movement.
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 U.S. military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which focuses on fallen soldiers, Veterans Day celebrates the contributions of living veterans. In New Jersey, the day is marked with parades, memorial services, and events that show appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans. Veterans Day also provides an opportunity for reflection on the importance of military service and the freedoms it secures.
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 national holiday centered on gratitude and family. New Jerseyans celebrate Thanksgiving with large meals, including turkey, stuffing, and other traditional dishes. It is also a time for many to volunteer and help those in need, whether by serving meals at shelters or donating to food banks. In New Jersey, many cities host parades and community events to mark the holiday.
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 New Jersey. The holiday is marked by religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. In New Jersey, Christmas is also celebrated with public events such as parades, light displays, and festivals. Major cities like Newark and Atlantic City host holiday events that attract visitors from around the state and the region.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
State-Specific Holidays in New Jersey
In addition to federal holidays, New Jersey also observes some state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s unique history, culture, and contributions to American society.
Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12)
Date: February 12
Type: State Holiday
Description: Lincoln’s Birthday honors the birth of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, who played a critical role in the abolition of slavery and preserving the Union during the Civil War. In New Jersey, this day is recognized with educational programs and public ceremonies to reflect on Lincoln’s impact. Schools and government offices may be closed in observance of the holiday.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Election Day (First Tuesday after the first Monday in November)
Date: First Tuesday after the first Monday in November
Type: State Holiday
Description: Election Day is the day when general elections are held across the country. In New Jersey, this day is important for citizens to participate in the democratic process by voting in local, state, and federal elections. Though not a formal holiday for all workers, many government offices and polling places are closed or operate on adjusted hours. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of voting rights and democratic participation.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Public Holiday Table in New Jersey
Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in New Jersey, along with 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 |
Lincoln’s Birthday | February 12 | Yes | Varies |
Election Day | First Tuesday after the first Monday in November | Yes | Varies |