Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued a proclamation amending the previously announced Administrative Leave holiday work schedule for the 2025–2026 Christmas and New Year holiday season.
The president of the United States issued an executive order Thursday declaring Christmas Eve and Dec. 26 as federal holidays this year.
Governor Bryan confirmed that Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, 2025; Christmas Second Day, Friday, December 26, 2025; New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, 2026; and Three Kings’ Day, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, remain recognized legal holidays in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Under the amended proclamation, commissioners and agency heads are authorized to grant Administrative Leave territory-wide on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to allow government employees to observe and honor Christmas Eve.
Administrative Leave Provisions
Territory-Wide
- Wednesday, December 24, 2025 — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to observe and honor Christmas Eve
- Friday, January 2, 2026 — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to allow participation in the St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival Children’s Parade
St. Croix Only
- Wednesday, December 31, 2025 — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to participate in J’Ouvert, the St. Croix Crucian Festival Food Fair, and New Year’s Eve activities
St. Thomas–St. John Only
- Wednesday, December 31, 2025 — 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., to observe New Year’s Eve and engage in appropriate festivities
Governor Bryan emphasized that the amended schedule reflects the Administration’s continued support of cultural traditions and family-centered holiday observances across the territory.
The administrative leave granted under this proclamation does not apply to essential employees, employees on regular or rotating shifts, or employees who are on annual or sick leave.
Government agencies are advised to ensure continuity of essential services during the designated administrative leave periods.
