Clarion Newschannel – Washington, D.C.
President Donald Trump has delivered an early holiday gift to federal employees by signing an executive order on December 18, 2025, closing most government offices on Christmas Eve (December 24) and the day after Christmas (December 26). With Christmas Day already a permanent federal holiday falling on a Thursday this year, the move creates an unprecedented five-day weekend for many federal workers—from Wednesday, December 24, through Sunday, December 28.
The order excuses employees from duty on both additional days, except where agency heads determine staff are needed for national security, defense, or other essential public functions. This temporary designation applies only to 2025 and does not permanently add the dates to the federal holiday calendar, which requires congressional action.
Presidents frequently issue such executive orders to extend holiday breaks when Christmas falls midweek. Trump previously granted Christmas Eve off during his first term in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Former President Barack Obama did the same for December 26 in 2014, and Joe Biden granted Christmas Eve off in 2024.
The closures affect executive departments and agencies but do not mandate shutdowns for private businesses, banks, or the U.S. Postal Service. Most retailers, services, and post offices are expected to operate on December 24 and 26, though many may have reduced hours on Christmas Eve.
Meanwhile, U.S. stock markets—the NYSE and Nasdaq—will close early at 1 p.m. ET on Christmas Eve and remain fully closed on Christmas Day, December 25, resuming normal operations on December 26.
As Americans prepare for the holiday season, this extended federal break highlights a longstanding tradition of providing extra time for family and celebration around one of the nation’s most cherished holidays.
Trump Grants Federal Workers Extended Christmas Break with Christmas Eve and Day After Off
