State-Specific Paid Holidays in 2025
While federal holidays are nationwide, states often add regional observances. Below are notable state-specific holidays:
1. California
– Cesar Chavez Day (March 31): A paid holiday for state employees, celebrating the labor leader’s legacy .
– Admission Day (September 9): Commemorates California’s statehood (optional for private employers).
2. Texas
– Texas Independence Day (March 2): Honors the state’s 1836 declaration of independence from Mexico .
– Juneteenth (June 19): Widely celebrated even before it became a federal holiday in 2021.
3. Massachusetts
– Patriots’ Day (April 21): Observes the battles of Lexington and Concord. State offices and schools close .
4. Utah
– Pioneer Day (July 24): Celebrates Mormon pioneers’ arrival in 1847. State offices and many businesses close .
5. Alaska
– Seward’s Day (March 31): Marks the 1867 Alaska Purchase. State employees receive paid leave .
6. Hawaii
– Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day (March 26): Honors the Hawaiian prince and delegate to Congress.
7. Louisiana
– Mardi Gras (February 18, 2025): A festive public holiday in New Orleans, though not statewide .
Employer Obligations and Best Practices
– No Federal Mandate: Private employers aren’t required to offer paid holidays, but 88% of private-sector workers receive some form of PTO .
– State Laws: Some states, like Illinois and Maine, have unique paid leave laws. For example, Illinois requires employers to pay out unused PTO under certain conditions .
– Religious Accommodations: Employers must reasonably accommodate religious holidays (e.g., Eid, Diwali) under federal law .