The North Carolina State Holidays for 2026 align with federal observances and include Good Friday and a three-day Christmas period that’s unique to the state. These holidays apply to all government offices, public institutions, and many schools, ensuring consistent observance across the state.
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North Carolina State Holidays 2026
North Carolina State Holidays 2026
North Carolina State Holidays — 2026
North Carolina recognizes a combination of federal and state-specific holidays in 2026. These holidays apply to all government offices, courts, and many schools statewide, including traditional observances such as Good Friday and a multi-day Christmas closure period.
| Date | Day | Holiday | Notes / Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1, 2026 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| January 19, 2026 | Monday | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| April 3, 2026 | Friday | Good Friday | State Holiday (North Carolina Only) |
| May 25, 2026 | Monday | Memorial Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| July 3, 2026 | Friday | Independence Day (Observed) | Observed Holiday |
| September 7, 2026 | Monday | Labor Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| November 11, 2026 | Wednesday | Veterans Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| November 26, 2026 | Thursday | Thanksgiving Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| November 27, 2026 | Friday | Day After Thanksgiving | State Holiday |
| December 24, 2026 | Thursday | Christmas Holiday (Day 1) | State Holiday |
| December 25, 2026 | Friday | Christmas Day | Federal + State Holiday |
| December 28, 2026 | Monday | Christmas Holiday (Day 2) | State Holiday |
North Carolina Holiday FAQs (2026)
Is Good Friday an official holiday in North Carolina?
Yes, Good Friday is a recognized state holiday in North Carolina.
Does North Carolina observe federal holidays?
Yes, all major U.S. federal holidays are observed by state offices.
Are state offices closed for the entire Christmas period?
Yes, state offices typically close for multiple days during Christmas week.
Do schools follow the same calendar as state offices?
Public schools often align with the state schedule, though some may differ.
What happens if a state holiday falls on a weekend?
It is usually observed on the nearest weekday, either Friday or Monday.
