Public Holidays and Observances in Rhode Island 2026
Rhode Island holidays 2026: full list including Victory Day on August 10, the only state to observe this WWII commemoration. See dates and office closures.
Rhode Island is the only state in the US that observes Victory Day, commemorating the end of World War II. The Ocean State also observes Election Day as a state holiday. From Providence’s healthcare and education sectors to Newport’s tourism industry, here’s what 2026 holds.
What Are the Federal Holidays in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 2026?
| Holiday | Date | Day | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victory Day | August 10 | Monday | Second Monday in August; commemorates end of WWII |
| Election Day | November 3 | Tuesday | State holiday; encourages voter participation |
Rhode Island has observed Victory Day since 1948. It is the only state in the US that still recognizes this holiday. The holiday was originally observed on August 14 but was moved to the second Monday in August in 1966.
What Are the Major Observances in Rhode Island?
| Observance | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Independence | May 4 | Commemorates 1776 declaration; no state closure |
| VJ Day Anniversary | August 14 | Original Victory Day date; historical significance |
| Gaspee Days | June | Commemorates 1772 burning of British ship; local event |
When Do Schools and Businesses Close in Rhode Island?
Government offices close on all federal holidays plus Victory Day and Election Day. Since Victory Day is not a federal holiday, federal offices and the US Postal Service remain open on that day.
School districts across Rhode Island set their own calendars. Common closures include:
- Winter Break: Typically late December through early January
- February Break: Often aligned with Presidents’ Day week
- Spring Break: Dates vary by district, often in April
- Victory Day: August 10, 2026 (before school year starts for most districts)
Check your local school district or the Rhode Island Department of Education for specific dates.
Banks close on federal holidays. Most banks also close on Victory Day, though it varies by branch since it’s not a federal banking holiday.
Private businesses in Rhode Island vary by industry. Healthcare and education in Providence typically follow federal holiday schedules. Tourism and hospitality in Newport and along the coast operate through holidays during peak summer season, including Victory Day, using seasonal employees. Manufacturing follows standard holiday schedules with shift differential pay for holiday workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does only Rhode Island observe Victory Day?
Rhode Island has observed Victory Day since 1948, commemorating the end of World War II. Originally observed on August 14 (the date Japan announced its surrender in 1945), it moved to the second Monday in August in 1966. Rhode Island is the only state that continues this tradition.
Do Newport tourism businesses close on Victory Day?
Most Newport tourism and hospitality businesses remain open on Victory Day (August 10, 2026) since it falls during peak summer season. Hotels, restaurants, and attractions typically operate with premium pay for workers.
Is the US Postal Service open on Victory Day in Rhode Island?
Yes, the US Postal Service operates normally on Victory Day since it is a Rhode Island state holiday, not a federal holiday. Federal offices remain open, while state offices close.
How do Providence healthcare facilities handle Victory Day?
Providence hospitals and healthcare facilities operate 24/7 including Victory Day. Healthcare workers typically receive holiday premium pay or a floating day off to use later in the year.
Why is Election Day a state holiday in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island designates Election Day (November 3, 2026) as a state holiday to encourage voter participation. State offices close, giving employees time to vote without work conflicts.
Summary
Rhode Island observes all 11 federal holidays plus Victory Day (August 10) and Election Day (November 3) in 2026. Victory Day is unique to Rhode Island—the only state that still commemorates the end of World War II with a state holiday. Plan staffing around Victory Day in August and the busy Newport tourism season.
Learn more about US Federal Holidays, floating holiday implementation, and handling time off requests.
