Trump's Holiday Surprise: Extra Days Off for Feds This Christmas!

Federal workers across the country got an early holiday present from President Donald Trump just as the festive season ramps up. On December 18, 2025, Trump signed an executive order that turns Christmas Eve—December 24—and the day after Christmas—December 26—into official days off for most federal employees. With Christmas Day already a standard holiday falling on a Thursday this year, that means a potential three-day stretch of downtime from Wednesday through Friday for those who qualify. It's a move that's sparking cheers among government staffers, especially after a busy year, but it's not without its caveats and questions. Who exactly benefits? What about essential services? And does this ripple out to the private sector? In this breakdown, we'll dig into the details of the order, its history, and what it means for everyone from D.C. bureaucrats to everyday Americans planning their holiday errands. Whether you're a federal employee checking your calendar or just curious about the buzz, we've got the scoop to keep you informed as we head into the final countdown to the holidays. Stick with us as we unpack this timely announcement and explore its broader implications for work-life balance during the most wonderful time of the year.

Breaking Down Trump's Executive Order

It all started with a stroke of the pen last week when President Trump issued an executive order aimed at giving federal workers a breather around the holidays. Specifically, the order designates December 24, 2025, and December 26, 2025, as days when executive departments and agencies will close their doors, treating them like federal holidays for the purpose of time off. This isn't about adding new permanent holidays to the calendar—that would require Congress to pass a bill and the president to sign it into law, like what happened with Juneteenth back in 2021. Instead, it's a one-time deal for 2025, providing an extra layer of relaxation during what's already a hectic season. Trump framed it as a way to recognize the hard work of federal employees, though the order doesn't delve into deep motivations beyond the standard holiday spirit. For those affected, it means paid time off without dipping into vacation days, which is a welcome relief especially with family gatherings, travel, and last-minute shopping on the agenda. But the key word here is "most"—not every federal worker will automatically get these days free and clear. Agency heads have the discretion to keep certain operations running if they're deemed critical, so it's worth checking with your supervisor if you're unsure. As of now, with the current date being December 22, 2025, folks are already adjusting plans, and the order has been met with a mix of gratitude and practical questions about implementation. This kind of executive flexibility isn't new, but granting two extra days in one go stands out as particularly generous compared to recent years.

The timing couldn't be more spot-on, with Christmas smack in the middle of the week. Imagine wrapping up work early on Tuesday, December 23, and not heading back until Monday, December 29—that's potentially a five-day weekend if your agency fully complies. Of course, the order emphasizes that this closure applies unless the head of the agency determines that employees need to report for reasons tied to national security, defense, or other public necessities. It's a pragmatic approach that balances goodwill with responsibility, ensuring that vital services don't grind to a halt. Reactions have poured in online, with many federal employees expressing excitement about the extended break, while others in essential roles prepare for business as usual. Overall, this move underscores the president's ability to influence federal operations swiftly, bypassing the slower legislative process for immediate impact.

Who Benefits and Who Might Miss Out?

At its core, Trump's order targets the vast federal workforce, which includes everyone from postal workers to IRS agents and beyond. If you work for an executive department or agency, chances are high you'll get December 24 and 26 off, turning the holiday into a mini-vacation. This affects millions of employees nationwide, from bustling offices in Washington, D.C., to regional hubs in states like Wisconsin. However, the "most" qualifier is important—exceptions are built in to keep the country running smoothly. For instance, roles involving national security, such as those in the Department of Defense or intelligence agencies, might require staff to show up. Similarly, public health, emergency response, and law enforcement positions could stay operational. It's up to each agency's leadership to decide, so there's no one-size-fits-all answer. If you're a federal contractor or work in a non-executive branch like the judiciary or Congress, this order might not apply directly, though some might follow suit informally.

Diving deeper, the order doesn't extend to the private sector, meaning your average office worker, retail employee, or small business owner won't automatically get these days off. Employers in the private world can choose to close or offer paid time off, but they're not obligated. This creates a bit of a divide: While feds might be lounging with eggnog, others could be clocking in. For families with mixed employment, it might mean staggered celebrations or creative scheduling. On the flip side, this could boost local economies if more people have free time to shop or travel. Questions have arisen about overtime pay for those who do work—typically, federal holidays mean time-and-a-half for essential staff, but details depend on individual contracts. All in all, the beneficiaries are clear: Rank-and-file federal employees get a well-deserved extension to their holiday cheer, provided their roles aren't mission-critical.

To clarify the scope, here's a quick rundown of key groups:

• Executive Branch Employees: Primary beneficiaries, with agencies closing unless exceptions apply.
• Essential Workers: May still report, including those in security, health, and defense.
• Postal Service Staff: USPS plans to operate normally on both days, so mail carriers and counter workers keep going.
• Contractors and Non-Execs: Not directly covered; depends on their agreements.
• State and Local Government: Unaffected—Wisconsin state offices, for example, close on 24 and 25 but open on 26.

This breakdown helps demystify who gets the gift and who might not, ensuring no surprises come holiday time.

How Presidents Have Handled Holiday Time Off

Trump's decision isn't pulling a rabbit out of a hat—it's part of a long tradition where commanders-in-chief use executive orders to sprinkle extra days off around major holidays. Looking back, during his first term, Trump granted Christmas Eve as a day off in 2018, 2019, and 2020, setting a precedent for generosity. Before that, President Joe Biden did the same for Christmas Eve in 2024, keeping the streak alive. Going further, Barack Obama stepped in twice: Once for December 26 in 2014 when it landed on a Friday, and again for December 24 in 2012. Even George W. Bush got in on the action, declaring December 24 off in 2007 and 2001. These moves often happen when holidays fall mid-week, creating opportunities for longer weekends without disrupting too much. What makes 2025 stand out is the double dip—two extra days instead of the usual one, which hasn't been seen in recent memory.

This historical pattern shows how presidents can boost morale with minimal fuss, especially during politically charged times. It's a low-cost way to say "thanks" to the federal workforce, who often face budget uncertainties and public scrutiny. Critics sometimes argue it's more symbolic than substantive, but employees appreciate the gesture. In contrast, permanent holidays like Martin Luther King Jr. Day or Juneteenth required full legislative buy-in, highlighting the temporary nature of these orders. For 2025, with Christmas on Thursday, the setup is ideal for maximizing downtime. As we reflect on these precedents, it's clear that holiday executive orders are a bipartisan tool, used by leaders across the spectrum to foster goodwill. Whether this becomes a new norm or a one-off remains to be seen, but it adds a festive footnote to presidential history.

The evolution of these perks also ties into broader workforce trends, like the push for better work-life balance post-pandemic. Federal employees, often bound by rigid schedules, value these extras as much-needed relief. Historians note that such orders date back decades, with variations based on the calendar and current events. For instance, in years when holidays align awkwardly, presidents step in to smooth things out. This year's order fits that mold perfectly, offering a bridge over the mid-week hump.

Impact on Private Sector and Daily Life

While the spotlight is on federal workers, the rest of America is wondering: Does this change anything for me? The short answer is probably not, unless your boss decides to join the party. Private companies aren't bound by federal holiday schedules, so expect most businesses to chug along on December 24 and 26. That said, some might close early on Christmas Eve as a tradition, especially in retail or service industries winding down for the big day. For the average person, this means holiday shopping, banking, and errands can proceed without major hitches. Major chains like Walmart, Target, and Costco have announced they'll stick to their usual plans: Open with possibly reduced hours on the 24th, closed on the 25th, and back to normal on the 26th. Target, for example, is eyeing 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Eve, giving last-minute shoppers a window.

Banks follow suit, operating on regular schedules for the 24th and 26th, per Federal Reserve guidelines—only shuttering for Christmas Day. This ensures checks clear and ATMs hum along. The U.S. Postal Service is another holdout: Post offices will handle retail and mail delivery on both extra days, though nothing moves on the 25th. For gig workers, delivery drivers, or hospitality staff, it's likely full steam ahead, as these sectors ramp up during the holidays. Economically, the order might indirectly boost spending if feds have more free time, but it's not a game-changer for GDP. Societally, it highlights disparities between public and private employment perks, sparking debates on equity. Some advocates push for more universal paid holidays, but that's a congressional conversation. In the end, while feds celebrate, the private world keeps turning, reminding us of the varied rhythms of American work life.

State Spotlight: What It Means for Wisconsin Folks

Zooming in on Wisconsin, the executive order plays out much like it does nationwide, but with local flavors. Federal workers in the Badger State—from VA hospitals to FBI field offices—will generally get the 24th and 26th off, barring essential duties. This includes spots like Milwaukee's federal buildings or Madison's agencies. However, state and local governments march to their own beat: Wisconsin state offices close on Christmas Eve and Day but reopen on the 26th, same for Milwaukee city halls. That means state employees get a solid two-day break, but not the extra post-Christmas day unless their bosses opt in.

For Wisconsin residents, daily life won't shift dramatically. Banks and credit unions stay open on the designated days, postal services continue, and retailers gear up for post-holiday rushes. In a state known for its winter festivities, this could mean more time for federal families to hit the slopes or enjoy cheese curds at home. Local media has fielded questions from confused workers, clarifying that the order is federal-only. It's a good reminder to check your employee handbook—private firms in industries like manufacturing or agriculture might not budge. Overall, Wisconsin mirrors the national picture: A win for feds, business as usual for others, with the holidays bringing everyone together regardless.

Banks, Mail, and More During the Break

Navigating the holidays means knowing what's open when, and Trump's order doesn't upend much beyond federal offices. Banks, for starters, will follow their typical routines: Doors open on December 24 and 26, with online services uninterrupted. The Federal Reserve's holiday list only includes the 25th as a closure, so transactions flow freely. Mail-wise, the USPS has confirmed retail counters and deliveries on both days—perfect for those last Amazon returns or greeting cards. No blue boxes emptying on Christmas Day, though.

Retail giants are prepped: Walmart's 24/7 spots might trim hours on Eve but stay operational, Target aims for early birds on the 24th, and Costco resumes post-25. This setup keeps the economy humming, especially with after-Christmas sales kicking off. For travelers, airports and trains (federal oversight notwithstanding) should run smoothly, though check for staffing tweaks. In essence, the order's ripple is contained, ensuring Americans can bank, shop, and ship without festive frustrations.

Sam Smith