When is Christmas Day 2021?

What is Christmas Day?

Christmas Day is a US federal holiday. Christmas Day is December 25. When December 25 falls on a weekend, federal observance may move to Friday or Monday.

Americans use this date for planning time off, travel, school events, and retail promotions. Mark it on your 2021 calendar early so team schedules and family plans stay aligned with public closures and local observances.

When is Christmas Day?

Christmas Day is December 25. When December 25 falls on a weekend, federal observance may move to Friday or Monday. The countdown and next-ten-years table above lists exact weekdays for 2021 and future years, including how many days remain until the next occurrence.

Floating holidays shift on the calendar; fixed dates like July 4 or December 25 stay on the same month and day every year. If the date falls on a weekend, federal observance may move to an adjacent weekday—confirm with your employer for time-off policies.

History and background

Celebrates the birth of Jesus in Christian tradition; secular customs and gift-giving expanded widely. Congress recognized December 25 as a federal holiday in 1870.

Understanding the history helps explain why schools, media, and local governments schedule related events around the same season each year.

How people observe Christmas Day

Religious services, gift exchange, family gatherings, decorations, and charitable giving. Retail peaks in the weeks before December 25.

Neighborhoods and workplaces vary: some close entirely on federal holidays, while cultural observances may continue with normal business hours. Check local listings for parades, sales, or volunteer opportunities tied to this date.

Calendar planning tip

Mark December 25 and any observed weekday in 2021. Shipping deadlines for gifts usually fall one to two weeks earlier.

Add Christmas Day to any printable month or year grid in our editor—the same holiday engine powers this page and your customized PDF. Browse 2021 holidays, open the monthly calendars hub, or print a 2021 yearly calendar with one-click holiday markers.