President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation creating two new federal holidays to be observed in the period surrounding Christmas, expanding the calendar of nationally recognized observances.
The newly designated holidays are scheduled to fall on dates adjacent to the traditional Christmas holiday, creating additional days off for federal employees and aiming to give families extended time for celebrations and travel.
In announcing the change, the White House highlighted the cultural and social significance of the winter holiday season, noting that the additional federal holidays are intended to reflect traditions observed by many Americans. The proclamation directs federal agencies to treat the new dates with the same status as existing federal holidays.
The move will require updates to government calendars, pay schedules, and workplace policies, and observers say it may also influence private sector holiday practices as businesses align with the expanded federal schedule.
State governments and employers will determine how to implement the new holidays locally, but the federal designation ensures broad recognition across government operations. As the first year of observance approaches, federal agencies are preparing guidance for employees and the public on the updated holiday framework.