Even as many of us take time off in the next few weeks, we can’t help but fantasize about a vacation in 2026. And it’s never too early to start planning!
It’s essential to maximize rest and relaxation—turning holidays into extended getaways or long weekends without sacrificing a single vacation day.
Here’s what you need to know about time off in 2026.
Chicago public holidays in 2026:
- New Year’s Day—Thursday, January 1, 2026
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday—Monday, January 19, 2026
- Lincoln’s Birthday—Thursday, February 12, 2026*
- Washington’s Birthday—Monday, February 16, 2026
- Pulaski Day—Monday, March 2, 2026
- Memorial Day—Monday, May 25, 2026
- Juneteenth Day—Friday, June 19, 2026
- Independence Day—Friday, July 3, 2026
- Labor Day—Monday, September 7, 2026
- Columbus Day—Monday, October 12, 2026
- Veterans Day—Wednesday, November 11, 2026
- Thanksgiving Day—Thursday, November 26, 2026
- Christmas Day—Friday, December 25, 2026
(Note: Lincoln’s Birthday is a floating holiday and may only apply to some employees.)
Chicago Long Weekends in 2026:
- MLK Jr. Day—January 17–19 (Monday)
- President’s Day—February 14–16 (Monday)
- Memorial Day—May 23–25 (Monday)
- Juneteenth—June 19–21 (Friday–Sunday)
- Independence Day observed—July 3–5 (Friday–Sunday)
- Labor Day—September 5–7 (Monday)
- Columbus Day—October 10–12 (Monday)
- Thanksgiving—November 26–29 (Thursday–Sunday)
- Christmas—December 25–27 (Friday–Sunday)
If you’re keeping track, that’s 9 long weekends and 13 public holidays in Chicago in 2026!
