Public Holidays and Observances in New Mexico 2026

New Mexico fully replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, reflecting the state’s deep Native American heritage. The Land of Enchantment also has an unusual practice: many state employees observe Presidents’ Day on the day after Thanksgiving rather than in February. If you’re managing schedules in New Mexico, these quirks are worth understanding.

What Are the Federal Holidays in New Mexico in 2026?

July 4 falls on a Saturday in 2026, so state offices close Friday, July 3. Note that Indigenous Peoples’ Day (October 12) replaces Columbus Day entirely in New Mexico.

What Are the State Holidays in New Mexico in 2026?

This Presidents’ Day swap is uncommon—most states observe it in February. New Mexico’s approach gives state workers a four-day Thanksgiving weekend while still providing the same total number of holidays.

What Are the Major Observances in New Mexico?

When Do Schools and Businesses Close in New Mexico?

State offices: Closed for legal holidays with the Presidents’ Day/day-after-Thanksgiving swap. Saturday holidays shift to Friday; Sunday holidays to Monday.

Public schools: Most districts close for standard federal holidays and Thanksgiving week. Whether Indigenous Peoples’ Day closes schools varies by district—Albuquerque Public Schools typically observes it. Check your local calendar.

Banks: Follow the federal holiday schedule. Indigenous Peoples’ Day and the day after Thanksgiving don’t affect banking.

Private employers: New Mexico law doesn’t require paid holidays or closures. Many retail and tourism businesses stay open year-round, sometimes offering premium pay or holiday pay for employees who work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does New Mexico observe Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

New Mexico observes Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day on the second Monday of October. This change reflects the state’s recognition of Native American heritage and culture. In 2026, Indigenous Peoples’ Day falls on Monday, October 12.

Is the day after Thanksgiving a holiday in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, Presidents’ Day is commonly observed on the day after Thanksgiving instead of the third Monday in February for many state employees. This gives workers a four-day weekend around Thanksgiving. In 2026, the day after Thanksgiving falls on Friday, November 27.

When is Independence Day observed in New Mexico in 2026?

Independence Day falls on Saturday, July 4, 2026. New Mexico state offices will observe it on Friday, July 3, 2026.

What is New Mexico State Day?

New Mexico State Day is January 6, commemorating when New Mexico became the 47th state to join the Union in 1912. It is an observance rather than an official state holiday, so government offices remain open.

Are New Mexico state employees paid for holidays?

Yes, state agencies and offices are closed on legal holidays and employees are given the days off with pay. Private employers are not required to pay employees for holidays even if the business closes.

How Should Employers Plan for New Mexico Holidays?

New Mexico’s two main differences from other states—Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day, and the Presidents’ Day swap to Thanksgiving Friday—require attention when coordinating with employees or offices in other states. If you operate across state lines, February schedules and the October holiday may not align with neighboring states.

For federal holiday dates, see our US holidays guide. Explore floating holiday options and time-off request strategies to round out your policy.

Sources

• New Mexico State Personnel Office – Paid Holiday Schedule
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Federal Holidays