Trump’s Executive Order Gives Federal Workers Extra Christmas Days Off

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday granting federal employees an extended Christmas break, effectively creating a five-day weekend for many by closing government offices on Christmas Eve. With Christmas Day falling on Thursday in 2025, the order excuses federal workers from duty on Wednesday, December 24, in addition to the federal holiday on December 25. This move follows a longstanding presidential tradition of providing an extra day off when Christmas lands on a Tuesday or Thursday to avoid a single isolated workday.

The executive order applies exclusively to executive branch federal employees and does not extend to private sector workers or most state and local government staff. Many private companies and non-federal organizations are unlikely to follow suit, meaning the extended break will remain limited to federal offices. The tradition dates back decades, with presidents from both parties often issuing similar orders for efficiency and employee morale.

Previous administrations have employed the same practice under the Federal Holidays Act, which allows the president to designate additional time off around holidays. For instance, when Christmas falls mid-week in a way that splits the workweek awkwardly, the extra day helps reduce commuting and operational costs for the government. Trump's order aligns with actions taken by predecessors like Barack Obama and George W. Bush in comparable years.

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Federal workers will thus enjoy December 24-28 as consecutive days off, assuming no weekend shifts or essential duties. Agencies designated as essential, such as those involving national security or public safety, may require some staff to remain on duty.

While the gesture boosts morale for federal employees, private sector workers will likely stick to standard holiday schedules. Companies may offer flexible arrangements individually, but no widespread five-day break is expected outside government offices.

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