As spring approaches, many Americans begin planning around Easter weekend and wonder, is Good Friday 2025 a federal holiday? The answer may surprise you — and it’s important to know which holidays will give you a day off.
Let’s dive into whether Good Friday is considered a federal holiday in the United States, how it’s observed, and what other upcoming public holidays in 2025 you can mark on your calendar.
Is Good Friday a federal holiday in the U.S.?
No, Good Friday is not a federal holiday in the United States.
Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and holds religious significance for many Christians, does not receive federal public holiday recognition. This means federal government offices, banks, post offices, and most public schools remain open.
However, that doesn’t mean it goes completely unnoticed.
Some states and private businesses observe Good Friday by offering time off or reduced hours. States like Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, and Tennessee may treat it as a state holiday, meaning local government offices could be closed.
When Is Good Friday in 2025?
In 2025, Good Friday falls on April 18, just two days before Easter Sunday (April 20). It traditionally marks a solemn day of prayer and reflection, especially among Christian communities.
Upcoming Federal Holidays in the United States (2025)
If you’re trying to plan your PTO or long weekends, here’s a quick look at the official U.S. federal holidays still to come in 2025:
- Memorial Day—Monday, May 26
- Juneteenth National Independence Day—Thursday, June 19
- Independence Day—Friday, July 4
- Labor Day—Monday, September 1
- Columbus Day (Indigenous Peoples’ Day in some states) – Monday, October 13
- Veterans Day—Tuesday, November 11
- Thanksgiving Day—Thursday, November 27
- Christmas Day—Thursday, December 25
Remember, only 11 official federal holidays are recognized nationwide. The federal government does not mandate closures for religious and cultural observances like Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and others.
FAQ: Good Friday & U.S. Federal Holidays 2025
Do federal employees get Good Friday off?
No, unless they take personal leave, federal employees do not receive a day off for Good Friday.
Is Easter Sunday a federal holiday?
No, Easter is not a federal holiday, even though it is widely celebrated across the country.
Are schools closed on Good Friday?
It depends on the state and school district. Some schools in religiously observant areas may be closed, while most public schools remain open.
What is the next federal holiday after Good Friday?
The next official federal holiday after Good Friday is Memorial Day, observed on Monday, May 26, 2025.
Why isn’t Good Friday a federal holiday?
The U.S. maintains a separation of church and state, which means religious observances are typically not included in federal holiday legislation.
Final Thoughts
While Good Friday 2025 isn’t a day off for most Americans, it remains a deeply significant day for many. Whether you’re taking time for religious reflection or simply planning for upcoming official federal holidays, it’s always helpful to know what’s recognized — and what’s not — by the U.S. government.
Keep this guide handy as you navigate your spring and summer schedules, and stay tuned for updates on other holidays, observances, and important dates.
Contents
- 1 Is Good Friday a federal holiday in the U.S.?
- 2 When Is Good Friday in 2025?
- 3 Upcoming Federal Holidays in the United States (2025)
- 4 FAQ: Good Friday & U.S. Federal Holidays 2025
- 5 Do federal employees get Good Friday off?
- 6 Is Easter Sunday a federal holiday?
- 7 Are schools closed on Good Friday?
- 8 What is the next federal holiday after Good Friday?
- 9 Why isn’t Good Friday a federal holiday?
- 10 Final Thoughts