2026 new holidays: Three new holidays are coming in 2026 — millions of Americans will get extra days off

Millions of Americans will mark extra dates on their calendars in 2026 with the introduction of three new public holidays in many states. While the move brings more days off for students and some employees, it could also create challenges for parents trying to cope with unexpected school closures. The changes reflect growing efforts to recognize cultural and religious diversity.

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Why are new public holidays being added for 2026?

States across the U.S. are updating their calendars to reflect the cultural and religious diversity in their communities. Officials in New York said the changes were intended to “recognize and celebrate New York’s rich cultural and religious diversity.” According to a report by The Sun, similar moves are being made elsewhere; That means Americans are encouraged to check to see if the new holidays apply in their state or school district.

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What is Asian Lunar New Year and where is it celebrated?

The first new holiday on the 2026 calendar is the Asian Lunar New Year, which will be celebrated on February 17. The holiday symbolizes the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year according to the lunisolar calendar. It is widely celebrated in China, South Korea and Vietnam, as well as in areas with a large Chinese population.
New York State will be the first state to close public schools due to this incident. California recognized this day as a public holiday in 2023, followed by Washington as a public holiday in 2024. Other states, including Colorado and New Jersey, are also celebrating the holiday, although school closures and paid leave aren’t guaranteed everywhere, The Sun reports.
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How will Eid al-Adha affect schools and workplaces?

The second new holiday is Eid al-Adha, which starts on the evening of May 26, 2026. Known as the Islamic Eid al-Adha, this holiday is traditionally marked by time away from school or work for many families.

Large school districts with significant Muslim populations are often closed for holidays. Washington became the first state to officially celebrate Eid al-Adha, and schools in New York will close for the celebration in 2026. Employers are required to accommodate religious observances, which means workers can often take a day off as an alternative holiday, according to a report by The Sun.

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When will Diwali be officially celebrated in 2026?

The third is Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. In 2026, Diwali falls on Sunday, November 8, and will be officially celebrated on November 9.

Diwali is a celebration in Hindu, Sikh, Jain and some Buddhist cultures that symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. It also honors goddess Lakshmi and Ganesha.

California added Diwali to the state calendar for the first time in 2026 under new legislation dated January 1. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill in October allowing public schools and community colleges to close and state employees to take a day off. According to The Sun, Pennsylvania and Connecticut will follow the same path; Cities and regions such as New York City, Jersey City and Edison will also celebrate the holiday.

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Why these holidays can be challenging for parents

While additional holidays bring recognition and time off, parents may face childcare concerns when schools close and workplaces remain open. Families may need to plan ahead for coverage on those days, as not all holidays guarantee employees paid time off, The Sun reports.

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FAQ

Which states are adding new public holidays for 2026?
New York, California, Washington, Pennsylvania and Connecticut are among those observing the new holidays.

Will all workers be on leave these days?
No. School closures and furloughs vary by state, employer, and region.