Public Holidays and Observances in Illinois 2026

Illinois recognizes all federal holidays plus several unique state holidays honoring its history and heritage. From Chicago’s financial district to downstate manufacturing hubs, here’s the 2026 schedule employers need to know.

What Are the Federal Holidays in Illinois 2026?

Note: Independence Day falls on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Federal and state offices will observe it on Friday, July 3.

What Are the State Holidays in Illinois 2026?

Illinois is Lincoln’s home state, making his birthday a significant observance. Casimir Pulaski Day reflects the state’s Polish-American heritage.

What Are the Major Observances in Illinois?

When Do Schools and Businesses Close in Illinois?

Government offices close on all federal holidays, Lincoln’s Birthday, and Election Day. The Secretary of State’s offices and Illinois DMV locations follow this schedule.

School districts set their own calendars, but most observe:

• Lincoln’s Birthday: February 12, 2026 (Friday)
• Casimir Pulaski Day: March 2, 2026 (Monday)—especially in Chicago and suburban Cook County
• Spring Break: Varies by district, typically late March or early April
• Election Day: November 3, 2026 (many districts closed)

Check the Chicago Public Schools calendar or your local district for specific dates.

Banks close on federal holidays but remain open on Illinois-specific holidays like Lincoln’s Birthday and Casimir Pulaski Day.

Private businesses in Illinois vary widely. Chicago’s financial district follows federal schedules, while manufacturing plants in Rockford, Peoria, and the Quad Cities may run continuous operations with 4-on-4-off shift patterns. Agricultural businesses in central and southern Illinois adjust schedules around planting and harvest seasons, often using mandatory overtime during peak periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lincoln’s Birthday a paid holiday in Illinois?

Yes, Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12) is an official state holiday in Illinois. State offices close, and many schools have the day off. It honors President Abraham Lincoln, who began his political career in Illinois.

What is Casimir Pulaski Day in Illinois?

Casimir Pulaski Day honors the Polish-American Revolutionary War hero. It falls on the first Monday of March (March 2, 2026). It’s a state holiday—schools close, but not all state offices.

Do Chicago Public Schools close on Pulaski Day?

Yes, Chicago Public Schools close on Casimir Pulaski Day. This holiday is particularly significant in the Chicago area due to its large Polish-American population. Most suburban Cook County schools also close.

Is the Secretary of State office open on Lincoln’s Birthday in Illinois?

No, Illinois Secretary of State offices (including DMV services) are closed on Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12). This is a state holiday, so all state government facilities close.

Do private employers have to give Lincoln’s Birthday off in Illinois?

No, private employers in Illinois are not required to give employees Lincoln’s Birthday or Casimir Pulaski Day off. These are state holidays that only mandate closure of government offices. Private businesses set their own holiday policies.

Summary

Illinois observes all 11 federal holidays plus Lincoln’s Birthday, Casimir Pulaski Day, Election Day, and the day after Thanksgiving in 2026. School and government closures vary, especially for Pulaski Day. Plan staffing around these dates, particularly for Chicago-area operations affected by school schedules.

Related reading: US Federal Holidays overview, floating holiday best practices, and managing time off requests.

Sources

• Illinois Central Management Services – State Holidays
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Federal Holidays
• Chicago Public Schools – School Calendar