Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump announced on December 19, 2025, that Christmas Eve (December 24) and the day after Christmas (December 26) will be observed as federal holidays this year, granting millions of government employees an extended break. The surprise declaration, made via an executive order, extends the traditional Christmas Day holiday into a four-day weekend for federal workers, closing non-essential offices and services.
“Merry Christmas to all Americans! I’m giving federal employees Christmas Eve and December 26 off—enjoy time with family and loved ones,” Trump stated in a White House briefing, emphasizing his commitment to family values and holiday traditions. The move affects approximately 2.1 million civilian federal workers and provides paid leave, though essential personnel like military, law enforcement, and air traffic controllers will remain on duty.
The decision revives a practice sporadically used by past presidents—Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush occasionally granted Christmas Eve off via executive order—but marks the first time both days have been designated in advance for 2025. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called it “a gift to hardworking Americans,” noting it aligns with private-sector trends where many companies offer similar flexibility.
Labor unions and employee groups welcomed the news, praising the additional rest amid burnout concerns. “This is a meaningful boost for work-life balance,” said American Federation of Government Employees president Everett Kelley. Critics, however, questioned the timing’s impact on productivity and costs, with some Democrats labeling it “holiday favoritism” toward Christian traditions.
Private employers are not bound by the order, but analysts predict many will follow suit to match federal schedules. As families plan gatherings, Trump’s gesture underscores his cultural emphasis on Christmas celebrations, promising a longer festive season for federal workers nationwide.
