The night before Christmas is probably the most exciting time for last-minute preparations for holiday festivities. It is the eve when most gifts are wrapped, baking is done, and travel begins, for some, they will be reunited after much anticipation. Is December 24 a federal holiday like Christmas Day or what does it mean for government offices and services? Christmas Day is an official federal holiday, but the eve of Christmas is a little trickier and at the mercy of presidential proclamations. Here’s a look at whether Christmas Eve is a federal holiday in 2024, which government agencies and departments will be closed, and what effects it may bring.
Is Christmas Eve officially a federal holiday?
No, Christmas Eve is not an official federal holiday in the United States. While Christmas Day is a recognized federal holiday, December 24 typically remains a regular workday unless a sitting president decides otherwise.
For 2024, President Joe Biden signed an executive order granting federal employees the day off on Tuesday, December 24. The order specifies that “all executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government shall be closed, and their employees excused from duty.” However, this decision does not set a permanent precedent—it is only applicable for this year.
Read more: Will your Christmas presents arrive in time? Amazon strike gets underway Thursday
Why do federal agencies close on Christmas Eve?
The closure of federal agencies on Christmas Eve is not guaranteed. It relies on a presidential executive order, which varies from year to year. Past presidents have used their discretion to give federal employees additional time off around Christmas, though not every president has made this decision.
- Donald Trump granted the day off during his administration in 2018, 2019, and 2020.
- Barack Obama provided Christmas Eve or adjacent days off in 2012 and 2014.
- George W. Bush also declared Christmas Eve a day off in 2001 and 2007.
Without such an order, Christmas Eve is a standard workday for federal employees.
Which federal agencies will be closed on december 24, 2024?
Most federal government offices and agencies will be closed on Christmas Eve this year. This includes departments like:
- Social Security Administration: Offices will not be operating.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): IRS offices and taxpayer assistance centers will be closed.
- Federal courts: These will generally be closed, though emergency services may still be available.
However, there are exceptions. Certain agencies must continue operations for critical reasons like national security and public safety. For example:
- Homeland Security: Essential staff may still report for duty.
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Air traffic controllers and other crucial personnel will remain on the job.
If you rely on federal services, plan ahead, as most offices will not be operational.
Will state and local offices close on Christmas Eve?
State and local government closures on Christmas Eve depend on local policies. Some states treat it as a partial or full holiday, while others do not. You may notice early office closures, but this is not uniform across the country.
It is always a good idea to check directly with your local offices if you plan to visit on Christmas Eve.
Do private businesses close on Christmas Eve?
aEach private organization lays down its terms as far as Christmas Eve is concerned. While some companies allow workers to leave early or even take the day off as a holiday perk, most retail stores and service providers are open on that date. Some may even provide shortened hours. Again, if you need to do any kind of errand or go for a particular business, plan ahead. Check the hours of operation to avoid running in for configuration.
