President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring is Christmas Eve a federal holiday question answered—yes, for federal workers only. December 24 and December 26, 2025, join Christmas Day as paid holidays, creating a rare four-day weekend for government employees. Private sector? Business as usual.
This temporary proclamation applies exclusively to executive departments and agencies. Banks, post offices, retailers like Walmart and Target stay open. Trump’s move echoes past presidents but contrasts his earlier complaints about “too many” U.S. holidays costing billions.
Is Christmas Eve a Federal Holiday? Full 2025 Breakdown
Yes—for federal employees only. Trump’s December 18 executive order closes federal offices December 24 (Wednesday) and 26 (Friday), bookending Christmas (Thursday). Essential workers may report at agency discretion.
Private sector impact: No legal requirement. Most companies maintain normal operations:
- Banks: Open Dec 24/26 per Federal Reserve schedule.
- USPS: Retail open, mail delivered both days; closed only Christmas.
- Retailers: Target (7am-8pm Dec 24), Walmart, Costco open Dec 24/26, closed Christmas.
- Stock market: NYSE follows federal calendar—open Dec 24/26.
| Day | Federal Offices | USPS | Banks | Major Retail |
| Dec 24 | CLOSED | Open/Deliver | Open | Open (limited hrs) |
| Dec 25 | CLOSED | Closed | Closed | Closed |
| Dec 26 | CLOSED | Open/Deliver | Open | Open (normal) |
"We're gonna say 'merry Christmas' again!" has been a rallying call by President Donald Trump for many years, and the observance of the holiday is getting a little sweeter for federal employees. In an executive order signed by Trump on Thursday, Dec. 18, Christmas Eve and the day… pic.twitter.com/w2DPWEvB2M
— Country Rebel (@countryrebel) December 19, 2025
Is Christmas Eve recognized as a Federal Holiday? Historical Context and Precedents
Temporary holiday declarations aren’t new:
- Obama 2014: Dec 26 (Friday) federal holiday.
- Trump 2019/2020: Christmas Eve closures.
- Permanent additions: Juneteenth (2021 Biden legislation).
Congress must pass laws for lasting federal holidays (11 total in 2025, counting overlaps). Trump’s order expires post-2025.
Ironically, Trump previously criticized holidays:
- June 2025 Truth Social: “Too many non-working holidays… costing BILLIONS.”
- May 2025: Complained U.S. has “too many Holidays” vs. workers.
His 2025 additions include Victory Days (WWI/WWII) and Gulf of America Day—despite past rhetoric.
Why Is Christmas Eve a Federal Holiday Now?
Federal worker perk: Extends Christmas into Thursday-Sunday long weekend. OPM confirms paid time off for eligible employees.
Economic nuance: Private businesses drive holiday commerce—$1T+ retail sales expected. Federal closures minimally impact GDP (0.2% workforce).
State variations: Some states recognize Christmas Eve locally; 12 federal holidays remain standard.
Christmas Eve 2025 Planning Guide
Travel: Airports, Amtrak operate; federal holiday doesn’t affect private transport.
Shopping: Black Friday-style Dec 26 deals at major chains.
Stock market: Open both days; futures trading unaffected.
Schools: District-dependent; many close full week.
Is Christmas Eve a federal holiday verdict: Affirmative for feds, optional for private America. Trump’s gift to 2M+ government workers creates rare extended cheer—while shoppers hit stores. Plan accordingly!