New York Legal Holidays Laws

Legal holidays are days on which most government offices are typically closed, while government employees receive holiday pay (which is equal to their regular rate of pay). Many private sector employees who work on holidays may qualify for holiday pay (150% of hourly rate), or get paid days off, but it’s up to the employer and may be included in your employment contract.

Federal legal holidays include New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Labor Day, and Christmas, just to name a few.

New York Legal Holiday Laws at a Glance

As is required of all states, New York recognizes the same legal holidays as the federal government. While some states have additional legal holidays that reflect the history and culture of the state, New York does not. However, public schools in the Empire State are closed on the following holidays, which are not always on the same date each year:

• Lunar New Year (often referred to as "Chinese New Year" but celebrated throughout Asia)
• Eid al-Fitr (marks the end of Muslim holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with a feast)
• Eid al-Adha (Muslim holiday marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca)
• Diwali (Hindu festival of lights, celebrated each autumn)

Need Legal Help with a New York Wage and Hour Violation?

Employers are required to pay minimum wage, provide breaks, pay overtime (where applicable), and generally follow the wage and hour requirements imposed by state and federal law. Also, employers must follow any contractual agreements with employees. Courts may award lost wages and other damages to plaintiffs for violations of labor laws.

If you believe you are entitled to holiday pay, as provided by the terms of your employment contract, or you have any other questions about wage and hour laws, an employment lawyer may be able to help.

Legal holidays in New York are listed in the table below. See FindLaw’s Wages and Benefits section for more information.

Note: State laws are constantly changing — contact a New York attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Research the Law:

• New York Code
  
• Official State Codes – Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and DC.

Related Resources for Legal Holidays Laws:

• Fair Pay and Time Off FAQ
• Employee Rights Center
• Find an Employment Attorney

Get a Legal Evaluation of Your New York Employment Matter

If you’re entitled to premium pay for working on a holiday, you shouldn’t have to worry about whether you’ll actually be paid properly. Get a handle on your particular wage-related concerns with a legal evaluation by an experienced New York employment law attorney.