January 20, 2025, marks a dual celebration in the United States, with both Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Inauguration Day falling on the same date. Here’s what you need to know about the observances and their impact on work, government services, and federal holidays.
Is January 20 a Holiday?
Yes, January 20, 2025, is a holiday due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday commemorating the birth of the civil rights leader. This holiday is observed annually on the third Monday of January.
Inauguration Day: A Partial Holiday
Although Inauguration Day is not a federal holiday, it is treated as a holiday for federal workers in the Washington, D.C. area. This special observance applies to employees within the District of Columbia and certain surrounding regions—Montgomery and Prince Georges Counties in Maryland, and parts of Virginia, including Arlington, Fairfax, and the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, and Fairfax. The holiday for these workers is designed to ease traffic congestion and allow attendance at the presidential event.
Federal Holidays Overview
The U.S. government observes a number of federal holidays throughout the year. These include:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
- Washington’s Birthday (Third Monday in February)
- Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
- Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (First Monday in September)
- Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Stock Market and USPS on MLK Day
On MLK Day, the U.S. stock market will be closed, marking the third closure of the year after New Year’s Day and the National Day of Mourning for Jimmy Carter. The New York Stock Exchange will resume operations on January 21, 2025.
In addition, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will also be closed on MLK Day, meaning there will be no mail delivery or pickup.
Conclusion
January 20, 2025, is a significant day in American history, with both the national observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the ceremonial swearing-in of the new president. While MLK Day is a federal holiday observed nationwide, Inauguration Day is a localized holiday for federal workers in D.C. and nearby regions, impacting traffic and government operations in those areas.
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