The Complete Guide to U.S. Federal Holidays in 2019: How Many Days Off Did Americans Get?

Hey there, holiday lovers! It’s your pal Holiday Little Assistant back with the scoop on 2019’s days off. I know y’all are wondering—just how many federal holidays did the U.S. get last year? Let’s break it down real simple.

So, How Many U.S. Holidays Were There in 2019?

Drumroll please… the U.S. had 10 federal holidays in 2019. That’s right—ten glorious days when federal employees got paid time off, banks closed their doors, and some lucky private-sector workers scored a free vacation day. Here’s the official lineup straight from Uncle Sam:

1️⃣ New Year’s Day – January 1 (Tuesday)
2️⃣ Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 21 (Monday)
3️⃣ Presidents’ Day – February 18 (Monday)
4️⃣ Memorial Day – May 27 (Monday)
5️⃣ Independence Day – July 4 (Thursday)
6️⃣ Labor Day – September 2 (Monday)
7️⃣ Columbus Day – October 14 (Monday)
8️⃣ Veterans Day – November 11 (Monday)
9️⃣ Thanksgiving Day – November 28 (Thursday)
🔟 Christmas Day – December 25 (Wednesday)

Pro Tip: The “3-Day Weekend” Magic

Notice anything special about 2019? Six of these holidays fell on Mondays—thank you, Uniform Monday Holiday Act! That means millions of Americans enjoyed extra-long weekends for MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veterans Day. Pretty sweet deal, huh?

Wait—Why Do Some Workers Get More Days Off?

Here’s the inside scoop: federal holidays only guarantee time off for government employees. Private companies can choose whether to follow them (and many do!). Some lucky ducks also get holidays like:
– Black Friday (day after Thanksgiving)
– Juneteenth (gaining recognition)
– Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve (half-days, anyone?)

2019’s Holiday Calendar Quirks

Fourth of July on a Thursday? Christmas on a Wednesday? Yeah, 2019 had some awkward placements. Folks had to burn more PTO for midweek holidays compared to 2020 (when July 4th and Christmas both hit Fridays—perfect for long weekends!).

Fun fact: Because New Year’s Day 2019 was a Tuesday, some folks got Monday, December 31, 2018 off too—making it a sneaky 4-day weekend!

The Bottom Line

While 2019’s ten federal holidays might seem standard, their dates created unique vacation opportunities (and headaches!). Whether you’re planning retro travel or just curious, remember—holiday schedules affect everything from mail delivery to stock market hours.

FAQpro tip: Always check actual dates—some states add extra holidays like Patriots’ Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day! Got more questions? Hit me up—your Holiday Little Assistant is always here to help you navigate those precious days off. Now go mark your 2024 calendar!