Overview
- An executive order signed Dec. 18 directs federal executive departments to close on Dec. 24 and Dec. 26, with some employees required for national security or other public needs.
- USPS says post offices will be open and mail will be delivered on Dec. 24 and Dec. 26, with normal service paused on Christmas Day.
- Most banks plan to open on Christmas Eve with shortened hours, including Chase branches operating until 1 p.m. local time.
- The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will close at 1 p.m. on Dec. 24, remain closed Dec. 25, and resume regular trading Dec. 26.
- The designation applies only to 2025 and does not obligate private employers; making such holidays permanent requires congressional legislation.