North Carolina Public Holidays
North Carolina State Holidays
Searching for the public holidays in North Carolina? Most public holidays in North Carolina are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the North Carolina employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to North Carolina and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
North Carolina, a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect the state’s deep-rooted traditions, honor historical milestones, and celebrate the diverse people and communities that have shaped its development. Like most states, North Carolina observes national holidays such as New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving, but it also has some state-specific holidays that commemorate key events in its history.
Overview of Public Holidays in North Carolina
North Carolina’s public holidays include both federal holidays observed across the United States and state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s cultural heritage and history. Some holidays, such as Memorial Day and Labor Day, are celebrated nationwide, while others, like North Carolina Day, are unique to the state. These holidays provide an opportunity for reflection, celebration, and community engagement.
Holidays in North Carolina are observed with a combination of public ceremonies, family gatherings, and community events. These holidays also impact schools, government offices, and businesses, with many employees in the public sector receiving time off. Private sector employees, however, may not receive the same benefits depending on the employer’s policies.
Federal Holidays in North Carolina
North Carolina observes many of the same federal holidays celebrated across the United States. These holidays commemorate significant events, historical figures, and achievements that have shaped the nation. The following are the key federal holidays observed in North Carolina.
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 the United States, including in North Carolina. It is a day for reflection, setting resolutions, and celebrating with family and friends. In cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, there are often fireworks displays, concerts, and other events to mark the start of the new year. Many people in North Carolina also take this opportunity to relax after the holiday season and prepare 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., a key leader in the American Civil Rights Movement. This holiday is observed across the United States, including in North Carolina, with events such as parades, educational programs, and community service projects. The day is a reminder of the ongoing fight for racial equality and justice. North Carolina hosts various community events, particularly in cities like Charlotte, to reflect on Dr. King’s impact and promote 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 a federal holiday that honors the birthdays of U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. This day is observed across the United States, including in North Carolina, with public events, educational programs, and retail sales. In North Carolina, many schools host programs that educate students about the history and contributions of past presidents, particularly Washington and Lincoln. Retailers also often use the day for major sales events.
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 solemn day dedicated to remembering and honoring U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the Armed Forces. In North Carolina, the holiday is observed with ceremonies, parades, and visits to military cemeteries. The state is home to several military bases, and many towns and cities, including Fayetteville and Raleigh, host events to recognize the sacrifices made by service members. Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer, with families gathering for barbecues 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 commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, marking the birth of the United States. In North Carolina, this holiday is celebrated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, and other festivities. Cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville host large-scale celebrations that attract both locals and tourists. Independence Day is a time to reflect on the country’s founding and to 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 development of the United States. It is celebrated with parades, picnics, and outdoor activities in North Carolina. Many people use the long weekend to relax, enjoy time with family, or attend events like the North Carolina State Fair. The holiday also marks the unofficial end of summer, with many people enjoying the last of the warm weather before the fall season.
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. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors fallen soldiers, Veterans Day celebrates living veterans and their contributions to the country’s security. North Carolina, with its large military presence, celebrates Veterans Day with ceremonies, parades, and other events, particularly in cities like Fayetteville, home to Fort Bragg. The day provides an opportunity for people to express gratitude to military veterans.
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 people to give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. In North Carolina, Thanksgiving is celebrated with family gatherings, large meals, and community events. Many people volunteer their time to help those in need, particularly through food drives and charity events. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, while held in New York, is also widely watched across North Carolina. Thanksgiving also marks the beginning of the holiday season.
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 the United States, including in North Carolina. The day is marked by family gatherings, religious services, and festive meals. In North Carolina, there are many events such as Christmas parades, light displays, and performances. The holiday provides a time for reflection, family bonding, and charitable giving, as many North Carolinians volunteer 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 North Carolina
In addition to the federal holidays, North Carolina observes a few state-specific holidays that reflect its history, cultural identity, and local traditions.
North Carolina Day (January 12)
Date: January 12
Type: State Holiday
Description: North Carolina Day celebrates the anniversary of North Carolina’s admission to the Union on January 12, 1789. The day is not as widely celebrated as other holidays, but it is an important occasion for reflection on the state’s role in the formation of the United States. On this day, North Carolina residents may participate in educational events, historical exhibitions, and community activities that highlight the state’s rich history.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Governor’s Day (First Monday in January)
Date: First Monday in January
Type: State Holiday
Description: Governor’s Day is a state holiday that honors the inauguration of North Carolina’s elected governor. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of state leadership and the democratic process. On this day, the state government may host ceremonies or educational events to mark the occasion, particularly in Raleigh, the state capital.
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 a holiday that celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities. In North Carolina, where several Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Lumbee have long histories, this day is observed to honor indigenous peoples. The day includes cultural events, educational programs, and reflections on the history of Native American communities in the state.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Public Holiday Table in North Carolina
Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in North Carolina 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 |
| North Carolina Day | January 12 | Yes | Varies |
| Governor’s Day | First Monday in January | Yes | Varies |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Second Monday in October | Yes | Varies |
