Holiday List in Kentucky 2026

Kentucky’s public holidays are a reflection of some long-standing practices that have been a part of the state since its inception along with federal public holidays sanctioned by D.C. Kentucky follows the standard U.S. federal holiday framework for administrative reasons, with very few additions or deviations from the same. The focus of the state administration is on keeping courts, state offices, and public services operating on a reliable schedule across the Commonwealth.

What differentiates Kentucky is not the number of holidays, but the way certain days are treated by the state government. Some religious observances, such as Good Friday, are recognised for state operations to consider closures even though they are not federal holidays. These inclusions are rooted in historical practice of faith rather than symbolic expansion, and they continue primarily for government offices and courts.

The holiday calendar for most residents matters in practical terms, which is when state offices close, or when courts are in session, and when schools or local government services pause. Private employers are not required to follow the state calendar as in every other state and usually observe only major federal holidays unless additional days are offered by policy or contract.

List of National and State Holidays in Kentucky for 2026

Kentucky state offices generally observe holidays that fall on weekends on the nearest weekday, consistent with standard state policy.

For Those Living or Working in Kentucky

The Commonwealth holiday schedule is what applies to State government offices and most public institutions that come under the state. Local municipal governments are usually expected to align with the state's calendar, though school districts and municipalities may adjust independently depending on the occasion that is specific to them. Banks and financial institutions follow the federal holiday schedule, not state-only observances such as Good Friday.

Private employers set their own holiday policies. While most observe major federal holidays, state-only holidays are typically optional unless specified by contract or workplace policy.

FAQs

Does Kentucky observe any holidays that are not federal holidays?

Kentucky does recognise Good Friday as a state holiday for government operations, even though it is not a federal sanctioned one.

Are all state government offices closed on Kentucky holidays?

Yes, holidays listed on the state calendar apply to executive branch offices and courts, though essential services may continue operating as usual.

Do banks close on Kentucky state holidays?

Banks follow the federal holiday calendar and state-only holidays such as Good Friday do not automatically result in bank closures.

Are private employers required to observe Kentucky’s holiday list?

Usually not. Private employers are not legally required to follow the state holiday calendar and they determine holidays independently as per workforce availability and rosters.