President Donald Trump has issued an executive order establishing Christmas Eve and December 26 as federal holidays this year.
The directive, signed on December 18, grants holiday status to these dates for federal departments and agencies. However, the order specifies that some offices may remain operational if required for national security, defense, or other essential public purposes.
Status of the Holiday Designation
Although Christmas Eve and December 26 are recognized as federal holidays in 2025, this designation is not permanent. For these days to become official federal holidays, Congress must pass legislation and the president must sign it into law.
Impact on Federal Workers and Services
According to USA TODAY, only federal agencies are scheduled to close on Christmas Eve and December 26. Since these are not permanent federal holidays, most businesses that typically follow the federal holiday calendar are unlikely to provide employees with an extended Christmas break at short notice.
In Wisconsin, Marshfield city offices, Wood County offices, and state government facilities will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day but will reopen on December 26. The Wood County Courthouse, River Block, and Marshfield Annex Offices will remain closed on both days. The Wood County Sheriff's Department deputies and emergency responders will continue their duties, though their offices will be closed to the public, as announced by the county.
Postal and Banking Services
The U.S. Postal Service will deliver mail and keep post office locations open on Christmas Eve and December 26, according to its official website. However, there will be no mail delivery and locations will be closed on Christmas Day.
Banks will operate on their usual schedules, remaining open on Christmas Eve and December 26, as confirmed by the U.S. Federal Reserve. They will be closed on Christmas Day.
