North Dakota Public Holidays
North Dakota State Holidays
Searching for the public holidays in North Dakota? Most public holidays in North Dakota are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the North Dakota employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to North Dakota and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
North Dakota, located in the upper Midwest, is a state known for its wide open plains, rich Native American heritage, and agricultural roots. The state observes several public holidays that reflect both national celebrations and the unique history and culture of the region. These holidays are a mix of federal observances and state-specific holidays that commemorate important events, figures, and traditions.
Overview of Public Holidays in North Dakota
Public holidays in North Dakota are a combination of federal holidays observed across the United States, along with a few state-specific holidays that reflect the state’s unique heritage. These holidays provide an opportunity for residents to reflect on key historical moments, honor figures who have contributed to the state and the country, and celebrate the state’s cultural traditions.
While public sector employees typically receive time off for these holidays, private sector employees may or may not receive the same benefit, depending on their employer. Public holidays in North Dakota include a range of observances, from honoring military service members to celebrating the state’s history and traditions.
Federal Holidays in North Dakota
North Dakota, like all states, observes a set of federal holidays that commemorate key events and figures in American history. These holidays include major milestones, such as the birth of the nation and the contributions of U.S. presidents, as well as important observances honoring military service members and civil rights leaders.
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 in North Dakota and across the United States. It is a time for reflection on the past year, making resolutions, and celebrating with family and friends. In cities like Fargo and Bismarck, New Year’s Eve celebrations include fireworks, parties, and other social events. On New Year’s Day, people often relax, recover from the previous night’s festivities, and spend time 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 honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the prominent leader of the American Civil Rights Movement. King’s work for racial equality and social justice is remembered and celebrated across the United States, including in North Dakota. In many communities, the day is marked by educational programs, community service projects, and parades. The holiday serves as a reminder of King’s enduring message of equality, nonviolence, and 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 celebrated to honor U.S. Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, two of the most significant leaders in American history. The holiday also serves as a time to reflect on the contributions of all U.S. presidents. In North Dakota, Presidents’ Day is observed with educational programs, community activities, and public events. Schools and government offices may be closed, and retailers often hold 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 is a day of remembrance for those who have died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed with ceremonies, parades, and visits to cemeteries, especially to honor veterans. In North Dakota, Memorial Day is a solemn occasion, with many towns hosting memorial services and moments of reflection at local war memorials. It also marks the unofficial start of summer, with families enjoying outdoor activities such as barbecues and picnics.
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, marking the birth of the United States. In North Dakota, the day is celebrated with fireworks displays, parades, concerts, and family gatherings. Cities like Fargo and Bismarck host large-scale events, and many families gather for barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor activities. Independence Day provides an opportunity for North Dakotans to reflect on the country’s history and celebrate American freedom.
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. It is celebrated with parades, picnics, and outdoor activities in North Dakota. Many residents take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy time with family or relax outdoors. The holiday also serves as a reminder of the importance of labor rights and the role of workers in the country’s development.
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. The day is marked by parades, ceremonies, and moments of reflection. In North Dakota, where there is a large military presence, Veterans Day is an important holiday. Local communities host events to recognize the sacrifices made by veterans, and many schools and organizations offer special programs.
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 Dakota, this holiday is celebrated with large family meals, typically featuring turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Many communities also hold charitable events, such as food drives and volunteer opportunities. Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season and is a time for family bonding and reflection.
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 Dakota. The holiday is marked by family gatherings, religious services, and festive meals. In many communities, there are events like Christmas tree lightings, parades, and performances. Christmas is a time for reflection, family togetherness, and giving back to the community.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
State-Specific Holidays in North Dakota
In addition to the federal holidays, North Dakota observes several state-specific holidays that commemorate the state’s unique history and culture.
North Dakota Day (November 2)
Date: November 2
Type: State Holiday
Description: North Dakota Day commemorates the day North Dakota became a state in 1889. The day is observed with educational programs, historical events, and public celebrations that reflect on the state’s history and its growth over the years. Schools and government offices are typically closed in observance of the holiday.
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 was first established in Nebraska, but North Dakota celebrates it as well. Schools and local communities across the state participate in tree planting and conservation activities. Arbor Day is a time to reflect on environmental conservation and the importance of trees in the state’s landscape.
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 the history, cultures, and contributions of Native American communities. In North Dakota, this day is particularly significant, as the state is home to several Native American tribes, including the Sioux, Mandan, and Hidatsa. The day is celebrated with events, cultural activities, and educational programs that highlight Native American traditions and history.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies depending on employer policies.
Public Holiday Table in North Dakota
Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in North Dakota and the time off granted to 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 |
| North Dakota Day | November 2 | Yes | Varies |
| Arbor Day | Last Friday in April | Yes | Varies |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Second Monday in October | Yes | Varies |
