The start of 2025 is bringing with it significant dates for public holidays and school terms across various regions, making it the perfect time to plan vacations and getaways. With several federal holidays slated for the United States, long weekends blooming for Thailand, and school terms firmly established for South Africa, there is plenty for individuals to anticipate this year.
According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Americans can look forward to 11 federal holidays during 2025. These include established dates such as New Year’s Day on January 1, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 20, and Independence Day on July 4. The complete list of federal holidays is:
- Wednesday, January 1: New Year's Day
- Monday, January 20: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Monday, February 17: President's Day/Washington's Birthday
- Monday, May 26: Memorial Day
- Thursday, June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- Friday, July 4: Independence Day
- Monday, September 1: Labor Day
- Monday, October 13: Columbus Day
- Tuesday, November 11: Veterans Day
- Thursday, November 27: Thanksgiving Day
- Thursday, December 25: Christmas Day
On top of these, January 20 will mark the observation of the inauguration day as well, solely for federal employees located in Washington, D.C.
Meanwhile, Thailand offers its residents and visitors nine spectacular long weekends to enjoy throughout the year. For those craving rich culture and tropical landscapes, 2025's holidays form the perfect backdrop for exploration. Notable long weekends include:
- April 5–7: Chakri Memorial Day
- April 12–16: Songkran Festival
- May 3–5: Coronation Day
- May 10–12: Visakha Bucha Day
- June 31–June 3: H.M. Queen’s Birthday
- July 26–28: H.M. King’s Birthday
- August 9–12: Queen Mother’s Birthday
- October 11–13: King Bhumibol Memorial Day
- December 5–7: Father's Day
- December 31 - January 4: New Year’s Holiday
For planning purposes, travelers are encouraged to book accommodations early, particularly during peak periods, and to explore lesser-known locations alongside popular tourist attractions. Embracing local culture and customs will enrich the travel experience.
Turning to South Africa, the Department of Basic Education has outlined the complete school calendar for 2025, which will begin on January 15 and conclude on December 10. The academic year incorporates 200 days across four terms, with notable public holidays intertwining with the school schedule, thereby providing families opportunities for extended breaks.
The significant public holidays coincide with school terms, including:
- New Year’s Day: January 1
- Human Rights Day: March 21
- Good Friday: April 18
- Family Day: April 21
- Freedom Day: April 27 (observed on April 28 due to being on Sunday)
- Workers’ Day: May 1
- Youth Day: June 16
- National Women’s Day: August 9
- Heritage Day: September 24
- Day of Reconciliation: December 16
- Christmas Day: December 25
- Day of Goodwill: December 26
This year also marks the introduction of additional public holidays as mandated by legislation aiming to grant teachers and learners extra time to rejuvenate.
Lastly, South Australia has seen recent legislative changes to its public holiday structure, mandatorily observing Christmas Day as a public holiday every year. Notable holiday dates for South Australian schools include: the Christmas and New Year period and various events like Good Friday and ANZAC Day.
For 2025, public holidays aim to enrich both personal and family times, and with proper planning, individuals can maximize their experiences. Whether you're seeking to enjoy the festivities of Thailand, explore U.S. holidays, or navigate South African school terms, 2025 promises to be filled with anticipated joyous moments.
