Fort Worth Holidays 2026: Key Dates & Closures

Stock Show season matters more than most holidays here. Here’s what to know about Fort Worth in 2026. For statewide holidays, see our Texas holidays 2026 guide.

What Are the Federal Holidays in Fort Worth for 2026?

Independence Day falls on Saturday. Most city offices and federal agencies will close Friday, July 3 instead.

City offices, courts, and most government services close on all dates above. Many private employers follow the same schedule.

What State Holidays Does Texas Observe?

Texas observes several state-specific holidays. Texas Independence Day (March 2) and San Jacinto Day (April 21) are optional holidays for state employees. Emancipation Day (June 19) is recognized alongside the federal Juneteenth holiday.

Juneteenth originated in Texas and is observed as both a state and federal holiday. Expect widespread closures on June 19.

What Local Events Affect Fort Worth Schedules in 2026?

Specific 2026 dates for major events are typically announced in late 2025 or early 2026. Check official event websites for confirmed schedules.

• Will Rogers area congestion for 3+ weeks – Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (January–February) is one of the oldest livestock shows in the country. Expect heavy traffic near the Cultural District and increased absenteeism.
• Downtown street closures – Main Street Arts Festival (April) closes Main Street and Sundance Square. Expect heavy foot traffic and limited downtown parking.
• Stockyards traffic – Cattle drives and weekend events in the Fort Worth Stockyards create regular traffic congestion. Holiday weekends see increased visitors.
• Cultural District events – Museums and events in the Cultural District create periodic traffic, especially during school holidays and summer months.
• Panther Island events – Rockin’ the River and other Panther Island Pavilion concerts create summer evening traffic near downtown.

When Do Fort Worth Government Offices Close?

City and Tarrant County offices close for federal holidays and the day after Thanksgiving. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are usually half-days or full closures.

When Are Fort Worth ISD Schools Closed in 2026?

These dates close Fort Worth Independent School District schools. Plan for childcare gaps and potential staffing shortages:

• All federal holidays
• Stock Show Day (late January—date varies)
• Good Friday (April 3)
• Winter break (late December through early January)
• Spring break (March)

The official 2026–2027 FWISD calendar releases in early 2026. Confirm specific dates then.

How Do Fort Worth Holidays Affect Businesses and Staffing?

The Stock Show is the big one. For three weeks in January–February, expect more call-outs, especially on rodeo nights and weekends. People volunteer, take kids, or just go—it’s a Fort Worth thing. The Stockyards stay packed on holidays when everywhere else slows down.

Summary

Stock Show season (January–February) affects staffing more than most federal holidays. The Stockyards run hot when offices close. Juneteenth matters in Texas—it started here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How bad is Stock Show absenteeism in Fort Worth?

Significant. The Fort Worth Stock Show runs 23 days in January–February, and many employees take time off to attend or volunteer. Expect 15-25% higher absenteeism on weekends and rodeo nights. Schools also schedule field trips, creating childcare gaps.

Do Fort Worth and Dallas observe the same holidays?

Federal and state holidays are identical. The difference is local events: Fort Worth has the Stock Show (January–February) while Dallas has the State Fair (September–October). If you operate in both cities, you’re managing major event disruptions twice a year.

Are Stockyards businesses open on holidays?

Yes—holidays are peak days. The Fort Worth Stockyards see heavy tourist traffic on Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving weekend. Restaurants and shops extend hours. Staff up, don’t close.

Does Fort Worth ISD close for Stock Show Day?

Yes. FWISD observes Stock Show Day in late January (exact date varies). Plan for childcare gaps. Many parents also pull kids out for rodeo performances, so expect informal absenteeism throughout the 23-day event.

Related Guides

• Texas Holidays 2026 – Statewide holiday dates and observances
• Austin Holidays 2026 – SXSW and ACL impact on Central Texas schedules
• Oklahoma Holidays 2026 – Neighboring state holiday schedule

Sources

• City of Fort Worth – Holiday Schedule
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Federal Holidays
• Fort Worth Independent School District – School Calendar