Public Holidays and Observances in Louisiana 2026
Louisiana holidays 2026: full list of federal holidays plus Mardi Gras, the only state in the US where Fat Tuesday is an official paid holiday.
Louisiana is the only state where Mardi Gras is an official paid holiday. Combined with Good Friday and Election Day, Louisiana offers a unique holiday calendar for workforce planning.
What Are the Federal Holidays in Louisiana 2026?
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | January 19 | Monday |
| Presidents’ Day | February 16 | Monday |
| Memorial Day | May 25 | Monday |
| Juneteenth | June 19 | Friday |
| Independence Day | July 4 | Saturday |
| Labor Day | September 7 | Monday |
| Columbus Day | October 12 | Monday |
| Veterans Day | November 11 | Wednesday |
| Thanksgiving Day | November 26 | Thursday |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday |
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 Louisiana 2026?
| Holiday | Date | Day | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mardi Gras | February 17 | Tuesday | Louisiana’s signature holiday; statewide closure |
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | State holiday; most offices and schools closed |
| Election Day | November 3 | Tuesday | State holiday in general election years |
| Day After Thanksgiving | November 27 | Friday | State employees receive this day off |
Louisiana became the first state to make Mardi Gras a legal holiday when Governor Warmoth signed the Mardi Gras Act in 1875.
What Are the Major Observances in Louisiana?
| Observance | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Twelfth Night | January 6 | Start of Carnival season; king cakes appear |
| Lundi Gras | February 16 | Monday before Mardi Gras; parades and festivities |
| Ash Wednesday | February 18 | End of Carnival; start of Lent |
| Battle of New Orleans | January 8 | Historic observance; no closure |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Observed by many families; no state closure |
When Do Schools and Businesses Close in Louisiana?
Government offices close on all federal holidays, Mardi Gras, Good Friday, Election Day, and the day after Thanksgiving. Louisiana state offices, courts, and DMV locations follow this schedule.
School districts typically close for an extended Carnival break:
- Mardi Gras Break: Many districts close for multiple days during Carnival week, including Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras
- Good Friday: April 3, 2026 (statewide closure)
- Spring Break: Varies by district; some combine with Easter week
Check your parish school board website or the Louisiana Department of Education for specific dates.
Banks vary on Mardi Gras. Regional Louisiana banks and credit unions close since it’s a state holiday, but national banks following the Federal Reserve schedule may remain open. Call ahead to confirm, especially if your bank is along a parade route. All banks close on federal holidays.
Private businesses in Louisiana’s tourism-driven economy often stay open through holidays. Hotels, restaurants, and attractions in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and across Acadiana operate with extended hours during Carnival season, offering premium pay for staff. Petrochemical operations along the Gulf Coast maintain 4-on-4-off shift patterns with holiday differential pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mardi Gras a paid holiday in Louisiana?
Yes, Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) is a paid legal state holiday in Louisiana—the only state where it has this status. In 2026, Mardi Gras falls on February 17. State employees receive the day off with pay.
When is Mardi Gras 2026 in New Orleans?
Mardi Gras 2026 in New Orleans falls on Tuesday, February 17. Carnival season begins on Twelfth Night (January 6) with parades starting in earnest about two weeks before Fat Tuesday.
Are Louisiana schools closed for Mardi Gras?
Yes, Louisiana public schools close for Mardi Gras. Most districts take the entire week off (Monday through Friday or longer), not just Fat Tuesday. Check your parish school calendar for specific dates.
Do I have to work on Mardi Gras in Louisiana?
Private employers in Louisiana are not required to give Mardi Gras off—it depends on company policy. However, many businesses close voluntarily, especially in New Orleans and along parade routes. State and parish government offices close.
Is the post office open on Mardi Gras in Louisiana?
Yes, the post office is open on Mardi Gras. USPS follows the federal holiday schedule, and Mardi Gras is a Louisiana state holiday only—not a federal holiday. Mail delivery operates normally.
Summary
Louisiana observes all 11 federal holidays plus Mardi Gras, Good Friday, Election Day, and the day after Thanksgiving in 2026. Mardi Gras is uniquely significant—banks and state offices close statewide. Plan staffing around Carnival season, especially for hospitality and tourism operations in New Orleans and Acadiana.
Explore more: US Federal Holidays dates, floating holiday FAQs, and time off request tips.
