Chicago Public & National Holidays (2026)

Chicago is among the largest cities in the United States, famous for its skyscrapers and beautiful architecture. It has a population of about 2.7 million and an area of 234 square miles.

Public holidays in Chicago are similar to the public holidays observed in the United States. It is a combination of religious, political, and cultural holidays.

When are public holidays in Chicago?

What are the public holidays in Chicago?

New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day marks the start of the year, and is celebrated every January 1st.

Thanksgiving Day
Celebrated every fourth day of November, Thanksgiving Day is meant for families to gather.

The Fourth of July or Independence Day
This holiday marks the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The holiday is kicked off with grand festivals in Chicago and across the country.

Martin Luther King Day
Martin Luther King’s life is celebrated in Chicago because of his efforts to gain civil rights for all people.

Presidents’ Day
George Washington, the first president of the United States and the hero of the Revolutionary War, celebrates his birthday on February 2nd. Meanwhile, Abraham Lincoln’s birthday is February 12th. President’s Day combines these and is celebrated every third Monday of February.

Memorial Day
This holiday commemorates the lives lost during the Civil War.

Labor Day
Celebrated every first Monday of September, this holiday honors all laborers in the United States.

Columbus Day
This holiday marks the day when the Italian navigator Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas on October 12, 1492.

Veterans Day
This holiday honors Americans who served in World War I. The president of the United States visits the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery in commemoration of this day.

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