On October 19, 2023, President Joe Biden announced through the White House’s executive order, federal agencies will close on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, granting workers the day off before Christmas Day. This decision is seen by many as a gift to the nation’s over two million federal employees, who will find themselves excused from duty the day before the holiday.
The executive order declared, "All executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government will be closed and their employees excused from duty on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, the day before Christmas Day." Although Christmas Day itself is always recognized as a federal holiday, Christmas Eve is not officially designated as one. Therefore, it's up to the sitting president to make this call each year, impacting how federal employees plan their holidays.
This move marks the first time Biden has enacted this specific holiday closure during his presidency. Historically, different administrations have treated Christmas Eve variously. President Donald Trump provided this day off to federal workers during his term from 2018 to 2020. Conversely, Barack Obama opted to designate December 26, 2014, as a holiday instead.
While many federal employees will enjoy this time off, certain government sectors necessary for national security or public needs will remain operational. It’s important for employees and the public alike to understand what this means for various services and businesses on Christmas Eve.
Local businesses and services also grapple with holiday scheduling. For example, mail delivery will continue, as the United States Postal Service confirms its operations will proceed on Christmas Eve, but customers are advised to check specific location hours. Many grocery stores and major retailers will operate on modified hours as well. Target, for example, will be open on Christmas Eve from 7 AM to 8 PM, allowing last-minute holiday shoppers some extended time before the holiday. Other stores, like Kroger and Walmart, will keep their doors open with limits, as many expect to close earlier than usual.
Behind these changes lies the backdrop of Congress’s recent activities to avert a government shutdown. Shortly after reaching bipartisan agreement to temporarily fund the federal government, Biden's order appears to be part of his administration’s effort to maintain employee morale during tumultuous times.
This holiday closure is set against the larger framework of federal holidays recognized each year. Under current law, the federal government listens to the president's discretion on matters such as Christmas Eve. It has become evident how the specific handling of holidays can impact workforce sentiment among federal employees. This recognition may lift spirits as families prepare for holiday celebrations.
Despite the impending closure, various questions about holiday operations arise. Will banks operate as usual? According to reports, many banks plan to remain open but with adjusted hours. For example, several local banks, such as Chase, will have reduced hours to accommodate the festive season and employee needs.
Service updates span beyond banks to include public transportation and municipal services. Garbage collection, for one, remains scheduled for Christmas Eve; localities like Chicago plan to adjust their schedules for Christmas Day but maintain services the day before.
This initiative aligns with Biden’s broader focus on employment and benefits for federal workers. Historically, federal employees have been vocal about wanting more flexibility and time off, especially surrounding major holidays when family gatherings and traditions take center stage.
Public responses have varied, but the consensus seems to reflect appreciation for the extra time off. Many individuals express gratitude for the opportunity to enjoy Christmas Eve festivities and family time without the stress of juggling work obligations.
Reflecting on the historical approach to federal holidays and the unique handling of Christmas Eve, each president has left their mark. The executive order not only affects workers but can influence holiday planning for millions of Americans, as families coordinate their seasonal activities.
The straightforward nature of the executive order indicates the administration's intention to promote good work-life balance. It is yet another step taken by Biden’s team to champion employees' rights and benefits at the federal level.
Moving forward, the order is part of what many hope will be a larger movement to prioritize employee welfare within the government sector. Expectations remain high as to whether future administrations will continue this practice of recognizing Christmas Eve as an extended holiday for federal workers.
Given this executive order, we can anticipate more conversations about workplace culture and holiday observances. It seems appropriate to reflect on how closures like these can contribute to morale, something particularly needed during challenging times.
With the details of Christmas observance set, families can now relish the thought of preparing for the holiday without the pressures of work looming overhead.
