This guide lists the public holidays in New York, and what happens on those days.
List of public holidays in New York in 2025. Photo: 123nyc.org / Raman Shaunia

List of public holidays in New York in 2025: New York, known for its vibrant culture and diverse celebrations, observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are a mix of federal and state-specific observances, impacting government offices, schools, and businesses.

Read also: How to use public transit in New York.

List of public holidays in New York in 2025

Here’s a comprehensive list of public holidays in New York for 2025.


Federal Holidays in New York

These holidays are recognized nationwide and typically observed by both public and private sectors.

  • New Year’s Day: January 1, 2025.
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 20, 2025.
  • Presidents’ Day: Monday, February 17, 2025.
  • Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 2025.
  • Juneteenth National Independence Day: Thursday, June 19, 2025.
  • Independence Day: Friday, July 4, 2025.
  • Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025.
  • Columbus Day: Monday, October 13, 2025.
  • Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
  • Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 27, 2025.
  • Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025.

Additional State Holidays in New York

While not all are mandatory for private employers, some are recognized by the state:

  • Lincoln’s Birthday: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 (a floating holiday for some state employees).
  • Election Day: Tuesday, November 5, 2025 (paid holiday for certain employees).

Observances and Celebrations

While not official public holidays, these events are significant in New York.

  • Lunar New Year: Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
  • St. Patrick’s Day: Monday, March 17, 2025.
  • NYC Pride March: Sunday, June 29, 2025.
  • Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Thursday, November 27, 2025.
  • New Year’s Eve: Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

How Public Holidays Work in New York

Businesses May Remain Open

Many businesses in New York remain open, especially retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. However, banks, government offices, and some corporate offices may be closed.

Employees May or May Not Get a Paid Day Off

Whether employees get a paid holiday depends on their employer and job type. Many companies provide paid time off for major federal holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it is not legally required for private businesses to do so.

State and Federal Holidays

New York observes both federal and state holidays. While federal holidays like Independence Day and Labor Day are recognized nationwide, New York also has state-specific holidays. However, private businesses are not always required to close or grant time off.

Differences in Observance

Not all holidays are observed equally across different industries. For example, while Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday, some private companies remain open. Similarly, holidays like Columbus Day may be recognized by some employers but not others.

Read also: Salaries in New York.

Cover photo: 123nyc.org / Raman Shaunia