As HR professionals and team leaders, staying on top of the US holiday calendar lets them plan events effectively and foster a positive work environment. 

Whether you're finalizing your company's holiday calendar or brainstorming engaging activities for each celebration, this calendar will help you plan out each holiday and give you opportunities for team building and employee appreciation events.

Date Holiday / Observance Description
Federal Holidays 2025
Jan 1, WedNew Year's DayMarks the beginning of the new year.
Jan 20, MonMartin Luther King Jr. DayHonors the life and legacy of the civil rights leader.
Feb 17, MonPresidents DayCommemorates U.S. presidents, especially Washington and Lincoln.
May 26, MonMemorial DayRemembers those who died while serving in the U.S. military.
Jul 4, FriIndependence DayCelebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
Sep 1, MonLabor DayHonors the contributions of workers to the American labor movement.
Oct 13, MonColumbus DayCommemorates Columbus's arrival in the Americas.
Nov 11, TueVeterans DayHonors all U.S. military veterans for their service.
Nov 27, ThuThanksgiving DayA time to express gratitude and celebrate harvest traditions.
Dec 25, ThuChristmas DayCelebrates the Christian holiday and promotes goodwill.
Notable Non-Federal Holidays and Observances
Jan 29, WedLunar New YearMarks the beginning of a new year on the traditional Chinese calendar.
Feb 2, SunGroundhog DayA folklore tradition predicting the arrival of spring.
Feb 14, FriValentine's DayCelebrates love and affection.
Mar 17, MonSt. Patrick's DayHonors Irish culture and heritage.
Apr 22, TueEarth DayPromotes environmental protection.
May 11, SunMother's DayHonors mothers and maternal bonds.
Jun 15, SunFather's DayHonors fathers and paternal bonds.
Oct 21, TueDiwaliThe Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains.
Oct 31, FriHalloweenCelebrates All Hallows' Eve with costumes and festivities.
Dec 20–28HanukkahThe Jewish eight-day “Festival of Lights.”
Dec 26 – Jan 1KwanzaaCelebrates African American culture and values.
Month-Long & Cultural Observances 2025
FebruaryBlack History MonthRecognizes the contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history.
MarchWomen's History MonthCelebrates women's significant contributions to history, culture, and society.
JunePride MonthHonors LGBTQ+ communities, promotes equality, and celebrates diversity.
Sep 15 – Oct 15Hispanic Heritage MonthCelebrates Hispanic and Latino American culture and contributions.
OctoberNational Disability Employment Awareness MonthRecognizes the importance of workplace inclusion for people with disabilities.
NovemberNative American Heritage MonthHonors Native American cultures, traditions, and contributions to U.S. history.

Event Ideas for US Holidays

Here are a few ideas that you can implement during the following holidays and bring about more smiles and happiness at the workplace.

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Monday, January 20
    You could consider organizing a volunteer day with local charities, such as helping at a food bank, planting trees, or participating in community cleanups. This idea could inspire teamwork while honoring Dr. King's legacy of service and equality.
  • Earth Day – Tuesday, April 22
    This idea could benefit your workplace by engaging employees in sustainability activities:
    • Day 1: Host a workshop on reducing carbon footprints.
    • Day 2: Organize a zero-waste lunch competition.
    • Day 3: Run a recycling challenge with prizes for the most innovative ideas.
    • Day 4: Plant trees or flowers in a nearby park or office garden.
    • Day 5: Encourage employees to share eco-friendly tips during a virtual or in-person brainstorming session.
  • Independence Day – Friday, July 4
    You could consider hosting a multicultural potluck, encouraging employees to share dishes that reflect their heritage. Additionally, this is a good idea: set up a trivia contest about American history or team games to foster camaraderie.
  • Halloween – Friday, October 31
    This idea could boost employee engagement: host a costume contest or decorate the office with spooky themes. You might also consider organizing a “Trick-or-Treat” desk-to-desk event or a pumpkin carving contest.
  • Thanksgiving – Thursday, November 27
    A gratitude wall could be a meaningful idea for this occasion, where employees share notes of appreciation for colleagues. Alternatively, consider organizing a team-building activity such as a pie-baking competition or a donation drive for local food banks.
  • Diwali – Starting Tuesday, October 21
    This idea could promote inclusivity: host a Diwali-themed lunch with traditional foods, or organize a Rangoli art contest. Share the significance of Diwali through a brief presentation to foster cultural awareness.
  • Pride Month – June 2025
    This idea could support inclusivity: invite guest speakers to discuss LGBTQ+ advocacy and organize a Pride-themed dress day. You could also consider donating to a local LGBTQ+ charity in your company’s name.
  • Native American Heritage Month – November 2025
    This idea could promote cultural understanding: host a storytelling session featuring Native American speakers or showcase art and music from Indigenous communities. Consider organizing a team lunch featuring Indigenous cuisine to celebrate their rich heritage.
  • Christmas 🎄 Holiday Season - December 2025
    1. Office Decoration Contest: Encourage teams to decorate their workspaces with a festive theme.
    2. Holiday Recipe Exchange and Potluck: Share favorite recipes and enjoy a communal meal together.
    3. Ugly Sweater Day: Have fun with a lighthearted contest for the most creative or outrageous holiday sweater.
    4. Secret Santa Gift Exchange: Organize a simple gift exchange to spread joy among colleagues.
    5. Cookie Decorating Activity: Host a casual session for decorating cookies together, perfect for creativity and fun.

By thoughtfully incorporating these event ideas, you can create an inclusive, engaging, and culturally respectful workplace environment that strengthens team bonds and celebrates diversity.

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A well-planned holiday calendar can significantly boost employee morale and company culture. By incorporating these dates and creative ideas into your yearly plan, you can create memorable experiences for your people that can enhance team cohesion and workplace satisfaction.