As 2026 approaches, significant changes await Florida’s holiday calendar. One key date on this calendar is January 2, which has sparked discussions regarding its status as a holiday.
Is January 2 a Federal Holiday?
As of December 29, 2025, President Trump has not designated January 2 as a federal holiday. This date follows New Year’s Day, which is recognized as a federal holiday. In the United States, federal holidays are determined by national legislation.
January 2: A Florida State Holiday
In contrast, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has officially declared January 2, 2026, a state holiday. This declaration means that state offices will be closed, providing employees with an extended weekend from January 1 to January 4.
Overview of Holidays
Understanding the holiday designations is important for both employers and employees. Here is a breakdown of the federal and state holidays in Florida for 2026:
Federal Holidays in 2026
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- January 19: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- February 16: Washington’s Birthday
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- July 3: Independence Day (observed)
- September 7: Labor Day
- October 12: Columbus Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
- November 26: Thanksgiving Day
- December 25: Christmas Day
Paid State Holidays in Florida for 2026
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- January 19: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- May 25: Memorial Day
- July 3: Independence Day (observed)
- September 7: Labor Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
- November 26: Thanksgiving Day
- November 27: Day after Thanksgiving
- December 25: Christmas Day
Implications for Businesses and Employees
Although January 2 is a state holiday in Florida, it’s essential for businesses to note that federal holiday designations do not automatically provide employees time off. Individual companies can decide whether or not to observe these holidays, including the state holiday.
Conclusion
The holiday schedule can significantly impact work-life balance. For Floridians, while January 1 is a federal holiday, January 2 will be a state holiday, offering a longer weekend for state employees. Understanding these distinctions is vital for planning time off and managing workloads during this period.
