Why are federal holidays skewed?

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  • Thread starter Loren Booda
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In summary, there is a discussion about whether the Federal Holidays in the U.S. could be more effectively timed. It is pointed out that there are 2 holidays from March through August and 8 from September through February, which may not be evenly distributed. It is suggested that employees may prefer to take their holidays in the summer when their children are out of school. However, it is noted that most holidays fall on a Monday or Friday. One person suggests moving Christmas or New Years Day to June, while another suggests implementing double daylight savings time during the summer months.
  • #1
Loren Booda
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Do you think our Federal Holidays in the U.S., with 2 during the half-year from March through August, and 8 during that from September through February, could be more effectively timed?
 
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  • #2
employees probably plan vacation time in the summer when their children are out of school. so naturally, they'd want their holidays at another time.
 
  • #3
That spate of holidays between Labor Day and Christmas is kinda nice, for me. My employer let's us work on holidays (with permission) and take the holiday at a later date (within three months). For some reason people almost inevitably take those "banked" holidays somewhere between December 20 and 30.
 
  • #4
Have you noticed that most holidays fall on a Monday or a Friday. Far too many to be coincidence alone.
 
  • #5
Loren Booda said:
Do you think our Federal Holidays in the U.S., with 2 during the half-year from March through August, and 8 during that from September through February, could be more effectively timed?

It's even more skewed than you think. You have fewer days between the autumnal equinox and vernal equinox than you do between the vernal equinox and the autumnal equinox, yet you have more holidays.

I'm all for more time off in the Summer (I'm also for going to double dog daylight savings time from June 1 to Sep 1, where the clocks are advanced two hours past standard time.)
 
  • #6
So, should we move Christmas or New Years Day to June?
 

1. Why are federal holidays in the United States unevenly distributed throughout the year?

Federal holidays are determined by the federal government and are based on historical and cultural significance. This means that some holidays, like Christmas and Thanksgiving, have been celebrated for centuries and are deeply ingrained in American culture, while others, like Columbus Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, were added more recently.

2. How do federal holidays affect businesses and the economy?

Federal holidays have a significant impact on businesses and the economy. Many businesses close on federal holidays, which can result in lost productivity and revenue. However, some industries, such as retail and hospitality, may see an increase in business during holidays. Additionally, federal holidays often mean increased travel and tourism, which can boost the economy.

3. Is there a reason why federal holidays are clustered in certain months?

The clustering of federal holidays in certain months is mostly due to the historical and cultural significance of those holidays. For example, December is a month with several federal holidays, such as Christmas and New Year's Day, because of their religious and traditional importance. Additionally, holidays such as Memorial Day and Labor Day are placed in the summer months to give workers a break during the busy season.

4. Are there any plans to add or remove federal holidays in the future?

The decision to add or remove federal holidays is ultimately up to the federal government. There have been proposals to add holidays, such as Election Day and Juneteenth, as federal holidays, but these have not yet been officially approved. The government may also consider removing or consolidating holidays in the future, but this is typically a rare occurrence.

5. How do other countries determine their national holidays?

Each country has its own unique way of determining national holidays. Some countries may have a mix of religious, historical, and cultural holidays, while others may have more political or commemorative holidays. Some countries also have regional or local holidays in addition to national holidays. Ultimately, the determination of holidays varies greatly between countries and is influenced by their unique histories and cultures.

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