Public Holidays and Observances in New Jersey 2026
New Jersey holidays 2026: full list of federal holidays, NJ state holidays including Good Friday, plus dates and office closures.
New Jersey stands out for observing Good Friday as an official state holiday—something most states don’t do. State offices and courts close on this religious observance. The Garden State also recognizes Lincoln’s Birthday as a legal holiday, though offices stay open. Here’s what employers and employees should know about 2026.
What Are the Federal Holidays in New Jersey in 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 |
Independence Day lands on Saturday (July 4, 2026), so state offices observe it Friday, July 3.
What Are the State Holidays in New Jersey in 2026?
| Holiday | Date | Day | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good Friday | April 3 | Friday | State offices and courts close |
Good Friday is the only non-federal holiday that closes New Jersey state offices. Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12) carries legal holiday status but doesn’t result in closures—a distinction that often confuses people.
What Are the Major Observances in New Jersey?
| Observance | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln’s Birthday | February 12 | Legal holiday but state offices remain open |
| Arbor Day | Last Friday in April | No closures; state observance only |
| Election Day | November 3 | Not a state holiday; employers must allow voting time |
| Day After Thanksgiving | November 27 | Not an official state holiday; varies by employer |
When Do Schools and Businesses Close in New Jersey?
State government and courts: Closed for federal holidays and Good Friday. Lincoln’s Birthday is technically a legal holiday, but offices remain open. Weekend holidays shift to Friday or Monday.
Public schools: Most districts close for Good Friday in addition to standard federal holidays. Lincoln’s Birthday closures vary by district. Contact your local school system for the exact calendar.
Courts: Follow the state schedule, meaning Good Friday closures apply. Check the NJ Courts holiday calendar for specific dates.
Banks: Federal holiday schedule. Good Friday and Lincoln’s Birthday don’t affect banking hours.
Private sector: No state mandate requires closures or holiday pay. Many businesses stay open on Good Friday, though some offer premium pay for employees working that day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Good Friday a state holiday in New Jersey?
Yes, Good Friday is an official state holiday in New Jersey. State offices and courts close on this day. In 2026, Good Friday falls on Friday, April 3.
Is Lincoln’s Birthday a state holiday in New Jersey?
Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12) is recognized as a legal holiday in New Jersey. However, state offices remain open for business on this day. It is separate from Presidents’ Day. In 2026, Lincoln’s Birthday falls on Thursday, February 12.
When is Independence Day observed in New Jersey in 2026?
Independence Day falls on Saturday, July 4, 2026. New Jersey state offices will observe it on Friday, July 3, 2026.
Does New Jersey observe Election Day as a state holiday?
Election Day is not an official state holiday in New Jersey. However, employers must allow employees time off to vote if they do not have sufficient time outside of working hours.
Does New Jersey observe Juneteenth as a state holiday?
Yes, Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19) is recognized as a state holiday in New Jersey. State offices close on this day. In 2026, Juneteenth falls on Friday, June 19.
How Should Employers Plan for New Jersey Holidays?
Good Friday (April 3, 2026) is the main scheduling consideration beyond federal holidays. If you serve clients who interact with state courts or agencies, expect closures that day. The Lincoln’s Birthday “legal holiday but offices open” situation is confusing—practically, it functions like any other business day.
For national holiday dates, see our federal holiday reference. Our guides on floating holidays and time-off requests can help you build a complete policy.
