Minnesota Legal Holidays Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
The federal government and state governments recognize certain days of remembrance, commemoration, or religious and social holidays as "legal holidays." While quite a few other holidays and days of remembrance are not included, those officially recognized by the state (including federal legal holidays) are paid holidays for most state workers. Those who work on legal holidays are eligible for premium holiday pay (usually time and one-half).
Legal Holidays in Minnesota at a Glance
Minnesota's legal holidays are identical to federal legal holidays, such as Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The only distinction is that Columbus Day is not a holiday for the executive branch, while the Friday after Thanksgiving is (other branches of government may choose between the two). When holidays fall on Saturday or Sunday, they often are "observed" on a weekday.
The chart below lists Minnesota's legal holidays, with links to additional resources.
| Code Section | 645.44 subd. 5 |
| Holidays | New Year's Day; Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday; Washington's and Lincoln's Birthday; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day; Columbus Day (not a holiday for executive branch); Veterans Day; Thanksgiving; Friday after Thanksgiving (for executive branch); Christmas |
Note: State laws are constantly changing, whether through case law, ballot initiatives, or legislation -- contact a Minnesota employment attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Are Private Employers Subject to Legal Holiday Laws?
Private employers often give their employees a paid day off, or pay them extra if they work on those days, as a perk. But they are not required to do so. However, it's important to note that employers are legally required to follow the terms of your employment contract, which may include such holiday perks.
Do You Have a Claim for a Breach of Wage and Hour Law?
If your employer fails to pay you in accordance with the terms of your contract (private employment) or state legal holiday law (public), you may have a claim for damages. Legal matters of pay and time are collectively referred to as wage and hour laws. See FindLaw's Wages & Benefits Resources page or contact a local wage and hour law attorney for more information.
Research the Law
- Minnesota Law
- Official State Codes - Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and DC.
Minnesota Legal Holiday Laws: Related Resources
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life
Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.