Public Holidays and Observances in South Carolina 2026

South Carolina observes all federal holidays plus Confederate Memorial Day (observed Monday, May 11 in 2026) and three days off at Christmas. Since December 26 falls on a Saturday in 2026, state employees typically get an alternate day. From Charleston’s tourism industry to Greenville’s manufacturing sector, here’s what 2026 holds.

What Are the Federal Holidays in South Carolina 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 South Carolina 2026?

South Carolina law (Title 53, Section 53-5-10) establishes Confederate Memorial Day on May 10 and three days at Christmas (December 24–26) as state holidays. When December 26 falls on a Saturday, the observed date may vary by agency.

What Are the Major Observances in South Carolina?

When Do Schools and Businesses Close in South Carolina?

Government offices close on all federal holidays plus Confederate Memorial Day and the extended Christmas break. When a holiday falls on Sunday, the following Monday is observed. When it falls on Saturday, the preceding Friday is observed.

School districts across South Carolina set their own calendars. Common closures include:

• Winter Break: Typically late December through early January
• Confederate Memorial Day: May 11, 2026 (varies by district)
• Spring Break: Dates vary by district, often in April

Check your local school district or the South Carolina Department of Education for specific dates.

Banks close on federal holidays but remain open on state-only holidays like Confederate Memorial Day.

Private businesses in South Carolina vary by industry. Charleston’s tourism and hospitality sector operates through holidays during peak season, often offering premium pay. Manufacturing in Greenville and Spartanburg follows standard holiday schedules with shift differential pay for holiday workers. BMW, Boeing, and other major employers set their own holiday schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when Confederate Memorial Day falls on a weekend?

When Confederate Memorial Day (May 10) falls on a weekend, South Carolina state offices observe it on the following Monday. In 2026, May 10 is a Sunday, so state offices close Monday, May 11.

Do Charleston tourism businesses close on state holidays?

Most Charleston tourism and hospitality businesses remain open on state holidays including Confederate Memorial Day. Hotels, restaurants, and historic attractions operate year-round, often with premium pay for holiday workers.

How do BMW and Boeing handle holidays in South Carolina?

Major manufacturers like BMW in Spartanburg and Boeing in North Charleston set their own holiday schedules, typically following federal holidays. Production schedules may differ from state office closures.

What is Carolina Day in South Carolina?

Carolina Day (June 28) commemorates the 1776 Battle of Sullivan’s Island, where South Carolina forces defended Charleston Harbor. It is an observance, not a paid holiday, with ceremonies held at Fort Moultrie.

Are South Carolina banks open on Confederate Memorial Day?

Yes, South Carolina banks remain open on Confederate Memorial Day since it is a state holiday, not a federal banking holiday. State offices close while banks follow their regular schedule.

Summary

South Carolina observes all 11 federal holidays plus Confederate Memorial Day (May 11, 2026) and the day after Thanksgiving in 2026. State employees also receive three days off at Christmas. Plan staffing around the extended Christmas break and Confederate Memorial Day, especially for state-facing operations.

Learn more about US Federal Holidays, floating holiday implementation, and handling time off requests.

Sources

• South Carolina Code of Laws – Title 53, Section 53-5-10
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Federal Holidays
• South Carolina Department of Education