South Carolina Public Holidays
South Carolina State Holidays
Searching for the public holidays in South Carolina? Most public holidays in South Carolina are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the South Carolina employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to South Carolina and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
South Carolina, a state known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and southern charm, celebrates a variety of public holidays each year. These holidays are a mix of federal observances and state-specific celebrations that reflect the state’s heritage, history, and the contributions of various communities.
Overview of Public Holidays in South Carolina
South Carolina observes many holidays that are celebrated nationally across the United States, such as New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day. In addition to these federal holidays, the state has some unique holidays that are specific to its history and culture, including Confederate Memorial Day and Carolina Day. These holidays are an important part of South Carolina’s identity, and many people in the state take time off to honor and celebrate these occasions.
Public holidays can impact both private and public sector employees, with many receiving the day off from work, while others may be required to work, depending on their job and employer policies. In South Carolina, some holidays are recognized by state law, while others are observed voluntarily or in certain localities. Below is a breakdown of key public holidays in South Carolina, highlighting their significance, how they are observed, and who gets time off.
List of Public Holidays in South Carolina
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 a day for reflection and celebration. It is observed nationwide, including in South Carolina, and is typically a time for family gatherings, parties, and fireworks. Many people celebrate by making resolutions for the upcoming year. In South Carolina, some residents enjoy New Year’s Day festivities such as parades, fireworks displays, and community gatherings.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based 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 celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader in the American Civil Rights Movement. In South Carolina, this holiday is of particular significance, as King’s efforts to secure equal rights for all Americans resonate deeply within the state’s history. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is often marked with community service activities, parades, and other events to honor his contributions to the fight for equality.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Confederate Memorial Day (May 10)
Date: May 10
Type: State Holiday
Description: Confederate Memorial Day is a state holiday observed in South Carolina to honor the soldiers who fought for the Confederacy during the American Civil War. The holiday is a reflection of the state’s historical ties to the Confederacy and is observed with memorial services, parades, and ceremonies in honor of the men who served in the Confederate Army. While this day holds significant historical importance, it has also sparked controversy, as some see it as a symbol of the state’s legacy of slavery and racial inequality.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based 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 the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed across the United States, including South Carolina, with ceremonies, parades, and flags at half-staff to honor fallen service members. Many South Carolinians visit cemeteries and memorials to pay respects to those who died in military service.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Independence Day (July 4)
Date: July 4
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, marks the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It is a patriotic holiday celebrated with fireworks, parades, and gatherings across the nation. In South Carolina, many communities host fireworks displays, picnics, and parades. The holiday is an occasion to celebrate American freedom, independence, and history.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Labor Day (First Monday in September)
Date: First Monday in September
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Labor Day honors the contributions and achievements of American workers. It marks the end of the summer season and is celebrated with barbecues, picnics, and various recreational activities. In South Carolina, many people take advantage of the long weekend to relax and enjoy outdoor activities before the fall season begins. Labor Day is also a day to reflect on workers’ rights and the labor movement.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Veterans Day (November 11)
Date: November 11
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Veterans Day honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which commemorates fallen soldiers, Veterans Day is dedicated to all veterans, whether living or deceased. In South Carolina, this day is observed with parades, ceremonies, and other events to honor the service and sacrifice of military veterans. Many veterans’ organizations hold special events to celebrate the contributions of veterans to the country.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
Date: Fourth Thursday in November
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and expressions of gratitude. It dates back to the early days of American colonial history when the Pilgrims gave thanks for a successful harvest. In South Carolina, Thanksgiving is observed with traditional meals that often feature turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. The holiday also marks the beginning of the holiday season, with many people preparing for Christmas.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Date: December 25
Type: Federal Holiday
Description: Christmas Day is a holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is widely celebrated with gift-giving, festive meals, and religious observances. In South Carolina, Christmas is celebrated with family gatherings, church services, and community events. Many towns and cities in South Carolina decorate their streets with lights and host holiday parades and festivals.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Carolina Day (June 28)
Date: June 28
Type: State Holiday
Description: Carolina Day celebrates the victory of South Carolina and North Carolina over British forces during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island in 1776, which was a significant moment in the American Revolution. The day is observed with events, ceremonies, and educational programs, particularly in Charleston, where the battle took place. This day is important for those who are proud of South Carolina’s role in securing American independence.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
South Carolina Day (January 19)
Date: January 19
Type: State Holiday
Description: South Carolina Day is celebrated to commemorate the state’s founding and its admission into the Union. The holiday is observed with educational programs and historical exhibitions that showcase the state’s role in American history. It is a time for residents to reflect on the state’s growth and achievements.
Time Off:
- Public sector employees: Typically have the day off.
- Private sector employees: Varies based on employer policies.
Public Holiday Table in South Carolina
Below is a table summarizing the public holidays in South Carolina, with a focus on the 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 |
| Confederate Memorial Day | May 10 | 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 |
| Carolina Day | June 28 | Yes | Varies |
| South Carolina Day | January 19 | Yes | Varies |
