The United States federal government recognizes 11 official holidays annually. These holidays not only mark significant cultural, historical, and societal milestones but also serve as peak moments for live events, concerts, and festivals. Here’s a complete list of federal holidays for 2025, along with notable live events happening around these dates:
January 1 — New Year’s Day (Wednesday)
Events:
- New Year’s Eve Concerts (December 31): Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas host high-energy concerts featuring top artists. Times Square’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop often includes performances by global music icons.
- Miami Beach Party Scene: Clubs and live music venues feature international DJs and artists, attracting partygoers from around the world.
January 20 — Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Monday)
Events:
- MLK Day Parades & Concerts: Atlanta, Washington D.C., and Memphis host concerts celebrating civil rights through music, including gospel and R&B.
- “I Have a Dream” Tribute Concert: Annual musical tributes in Birmingham, Alabama, feature artists performing songs of hope and equality.
February 17 — George Washington’s Birthday (Monday)
Events:
- President’s Day Weekend Shows: Live performances in Washington D.C. and Mount Vernon include classical and historical music performances celebrating American heritage.
- Winter Jazz Fest: New York hosts this renowned festival in February, drawing jazz lovers from across the globe.
May 26 — Memorial Day (Monday)
Events:
- Best of the Best (Miami): This iconic reggae and dancehall music festival takes over Miami every Memorial Day weekend, featuring artists like Shabba Ranks, Beenie Man, and more.
- National Memorial Day Concert (Washington D.C.): A patriotic event with orchestras, choirs, and performances honoring fallen U.S. servicemen and women.
- EDC Las Vegas (late May): One of the world’s largest electronic music festivals takes place around Memorial Day weekend.
June 19 — Juneteenth (Thursday)
Events:
- Juneteenth Music Festival (Denver, CO): A vibrant celebration of Black culture and music, featuring live performances by hip-hop, gospel, and soul artists.
- Juneteenth Celebration in Galveston, TX: The birthplace of Juneteenth hosts concerts and parades, with performances from local and national artists.
July 4 — Independence Day (Friday)
Events:
- Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular: A free outdoor concert featuring the Boston Pops Orchestra and special guest artists.
- A Capitol Fourth (Washington D.C.): A nationally televised concert on the National Mall with performances by top artists and a massive fireworks display.
- Nashville’s Let Freedom Sing: Country music’s biggest stars perform free concerts in downtown Nashville.
September 1 — Labor Day (Monday)
Events:
- Made in America Festival (Philadelphia): Founded by Jay-Z, this two-day festival features top hip-hop, R&B, and pop artists.
- Electric Zoo Festival (New York): A massive electronic music festival held over Labor Day weekend on Randall’s Island.
- West Indian Day Parade (Labor Day Parade) (New York): Since the 1930s, Caribbean People gather on the first Monday in September. Artist from across the Caribbean perform as revelers fill the street in a multicultural carnival.
- Burning Man (Nevada): Ending Labor Day weekend, this unique art and music festival concludes with performances and installations in the Nevada desert.
October 13 — Columbus Day (Monday)
Events:
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebrations: Cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, and Albuquerque host concerts and events featuring Native American music and culture.
- Austin City Limits Music Festival: October weekends feature a diverse lineup of global artists in Austin, Texas.
November 11 — Veterans Day (Tuesday)
Events:
- Veterans Day Concerts (Washington D.C.): Performances by military bands and national artists at the National Mall and Arlington National Cemetery.
- NYC Veterans Day Parade After-Parties: Local venues host live music and events celebrating veterans.
November 27 — Thanksgiving Day (Thursday)
Events:
- Thanksgiving Eve Concerts: Known as the biggest party night of the year, cities host concerts in venues and clubs.
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (New York): Features live musical performances from Broadway stars, pop artists, and marching bands.
- Native American Heritage Month Events: Musical events and concerts celebrating Native American culture and history.
December 25 — Christmas Day (Thursday)
Events:
- Christmas Concerts: Cities like New York and Chicago feature classical music performances, including Handel’s Messiah and holiday-themed jazz shows.
- Holiday Tours by Top Artists: Artists like Mariah Carey often perform holiday concerts during December, celebrating the season with live music.
These holidays not only offer a chance to pause and reflect but also showcase the United States’ vibrant live music culture. Stay tuned to World Music Views for more updates on concerts and live events across the U.S.
