Make December 26th a National Holiday: A Day to Rest, Recover, and Reconnect

The Issue

We respectfully request the U.S. government to recognize the day after Christmas (December 26th) as a federal holiday. This additional day of rest would allow individuals and families to recover from holiday travel, gatherings, and festivities, promoting mental well-being and work-life balance.
 

The holiday season is a cherished time for family, community, and celebration. However, the current schedule often leaves Americans returning to work immediately after Christmas, limiting the opportunity to recharge and properly conclude the holiday. Declaring December 26th a federal holiday would:

1. Promote Mental Health: The holiday season can be both joyous and stressful. An extra day to decompress would alleviate post-holiday burnout.


2. Boost Productivity: Studies show that well-rested employees return to work more focused and effective.


3. Encourage Family Time: Many families are unable to fully enjoy Christmas Day due to travel or other commitments. December 26th would provide an opportunity to extend these meaningful moments.


4. Align with Global Practices: Countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia already recognize December 26th as a public holiday (Boxing Day).



We believe this change would have a positive cultural and economic impact, fostering a more balanced and healthy workforce while respecting the spirit of the holiday season.

We urge the administration to consider this proposal and take steps to make December 26th a federal holiday.

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The Issue

We respectfully request the U.S. government to recognize the day after Christmas (December 26th) as a federal holiday. This additional day of rest would allow individuals and families to recover from holiday travel, gatherings, and festivities, promoting mental well-being and work-life balance.
 

The holiday season is a cherished time for family, community, and celebration. However, the current schedule often leaves Americans returning to work immediately after Christmas, limiting the opportunity to recharge and properly conclude the holiday. Declaring December 26th a federal holiday would:

1. Promote Mental Health: The holiday season can be both joyous and stressful. An extra day to decompress would alleviate post-holiday burnout.


2. Boost Productivity: Studies show that well-rested employees return to work more focused and effective.


3. Encourage Family Time: Many families are unable to fully enjoy Christmas Day due to travel or other commitments. December 26th would provide an opportunity to extend these meaningful moments.


4. Align with Global Practices: Countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia already recognize December 26th as a public holiday (Boxing Day).



We believe this change would have a positive cultural and economic impact, fostering a more balanced and healthy workforce while respecting the spirit of the holiday season.

We urge the administration to consider this proposal and take steps to make December 26th a federal holiday.

The Decision Makers

Kamala Harris
Former Vice President of the United States

Petition Updates