National Holiday vs. Federal Holiday — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 12, 2023
A National Holiday is recognized and celebrated by an entire country, while a Federal Holiday is specific to federal employees and the federal government in the U.S.
Difference Between National Holiday and Federal Holiday
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A National Holiday is an occasion that commemorates an important event or figure and is observed throughout a country. Such holidays might be recognized by various institutions, businesses, and communities nationwide. On the other hand, a Federal Holiday, particularly in the United States, pertains to holidays that are recognized by the federal government, and on these days, non-essential federal government offices are closed.
When discussing a National Holiday, it implies a unified acknowledgment of the significance of the day across the entire nation. It's a time when citizens come together, regardless of their state or region, to celebrate or commemorate. In contrast, a Federal Holiday is more specific to the operations of the federal government. While many people outside of the government might observe it, its primary implication is for federal entities.
There can be overlap between National Holidays and Federal Holidays, especially in the United States. For instance, Independence Day on July 4th is both a National Holiday, celebrated by all Americans, and a Federal Holiday, meaning federal offices are closed. However, not all National Holidays are Federal Holidays, and the distinction is essential in terms of operations and observances.
The terminology might differ based on the country in question. While the U.S. uses the term "Federal Holiday" because of its federal system of government, other nations might not make such distinctions. Instead, their National Holidays might automatically imply closures and observances across all levels of government and society.
Comparison Chart
Definition
A holiday celebrated by the entire country.
A holiday recognized by the U.S. federal government.
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Observance
Nationwide recognition and celebration.
Federal government offices are closed.
Applicability
Relevant to an entire nation's population.
Specific to U.S. federal employees and offices.
Scope
Broader in terms of recognition.
Narrower, focusing on federal entities.
Global Usage
Used in many countries to indicate national celebrations.
Primarily a U.S. term tied to its federal system.
Compare with Definitions
National Holiday
A holiday acknowledged and often celebrated by a country's citizens.
Diwali is a National Holiday in India, celebrated with fervor.
Federal Holiday
Days in the U.S. calendar designated for federal observance.
Labor Day, a Federal Holiday, is celebrated on the first Monday of September.
National Holiday
A day that commemorates a significant event or figure for a country.
Bastille Day is a significant National Holiday in France.
Federal Holiday
A holiday recognized by the federal government of the United States.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a Federal Holiday observed in January.
National Holiday
An official day off recognized by an entire country.
New Year's Day is a National Holiday in many countries.
Federal Holiday
A specific list of days in the U.S. when non-essential federal work stops.
Veterans Day is a Federal Holiday honoring military veterans.
National Holiday
A day of celebration or observance recognized by an entire nation.
July 4th is a National Holiday in the U.S.
Federal Holiday
A day when U.S. federal government offices are closed.
On Thanksgiving, a Federal Holiday, most federal employees have the day off.
National Holiday
A day when a nation collectively marks an occasion.
Canada Day is a National Holiday celebrated with pride.
Federal Holiday
A U.S. holiday that affects federal operations.
On Federal Holidays, mail delivery might be affected.
Common Curiosities
Who decides on a Federal Holiday in the U.S.?
U.S. Congress has the authority to designate Federal Holidays.
What does Federal Holiday mean?
A Federal Holiday is a day recognized by the U.S. federal government, leading to the closure of non-essential federal offices.
Are all Federal Holidays also National Holidays?
In the U.S., most Federal Holidays are celebrated nationally, but not all National Holidays are Federal Holidays.
Can states have their own holidays separate from National Holidays?
Yes, states can and often do have their own holidays that might not be nationally recognized.
Do businesses always close on Federal Holidays?
Not necessarily. While federal offices close, private businesses can choose whether to operate.
Is Christmas a National or Federal Holiday?
In the U.S., Christmas is both a National Holiday and a Federal Holiday.
Do National Holidays always reflect a country's most significant events?
Generally, yes. National Holidays often commemorate pivotal events or figures in a country's history.
Do all countries have the concept of a Federal Holiday?
No, the term "Federal Holiday" is primarily U.S.-centric due to its federal system of government.
Are schools closed on Federal Holidays?
Often, but it depends on the school district's calendar.
Can a day be a National Holiday in one country and a regular day in another?
Absolutely. National Holidays are often specific to a country's history or culture.
How many Federal Holidays are there in the U.S.?
As of my last update, there are ten Federal Holidays in the U.S.
Are Federal Holidays paid holidays for federal employees?
Typically, yes. Federal employees usually receive pay for Federal Holidays.
What is a National Holiday?
A National Holiday is a day recognized and celebrated by an entire country.
How do countries without a federal system define their main holidays?
They typically refer to them as National Holidays or public holidays.
Can a new National Holiday or Federal Holiday be created?
Yes, through legislative processes or governmental decrees, new holidays can be established.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
