Traveling to the United States in 2025? Buckle up and mark your calendars, because public holidays can turn your travel plans into a wild ride. If you don’t want to accidentally find yourself in the middle of a Thanksgiving turkey stampede or dodging fireworks on the Fourth of July, you’ll want to know these dates. Let’s unpack the major holidays in 2025 that could shake things up a bit.
New Year’s Day: January 1
First off, we kick off the year with New Year’s Day. Now, this is usually a time for recovery from the wild parties of the night before, but don’t be fooled! Many people take this opportunity for a long weekend getaway. Airport chaos? Yep. Hotel prices? Sky-high. If you’re planning to fly on January 1, prepare for a crowd that may resemble a scene from a zombie movie—everyone looking bleary-eyed and desperate for coffee.
If you can, plan your travel for the days before or after. You’ll find fewer people and more room in those cozy airport chairs. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might score some post-holiday sales. Who doesn’t love a good bargain? Just remember to pack your patience along with your favorite travel pillow.
Independence Day: July 4
Next up is Independence Day, which is a big deal in the U.S. Think fireworks, parades, and barbecues. If you want to see the spectacular fireworks display over the Washington Monument, you better have a plan. Hotels will be booked solid, and traffic will be a nightmare. Seriously, it’s like everyone in the country suddenly decides they want to be at the same barbecue on the same day.
Here’s the scoop: consider visiting a smaller town for a more intimate celebration. You might even find a hidden gem of a local parade. Just don’t forget your red, white, and blue attire. It’s basically a requirement. And if you’re not into crowds, sneak away to the mountains or a beach a few days before. Trust me, nothing says freedom like avoiding a jam-packed city.
Labor Day: September 1
Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer, and it’s a popular time for family vacations. Many people take advantage of the long weekend, which means you’ll encounter more people at beaches, parks, and campgrounds than you’d see at a Black Friday sale. If you’re planning a trip, book your accommodations ahead of time, or consider a destination that’s off the beaten path.
Want to avoid the hustle? Hit the road a few days before the weekend. You’ll find that sweet spot where the weather is still warm, but the crowds have thinned out. Plus, there’s something about the last gasp of summer that makes everything feel a little more special. Perfect for a spontaneous road trip with friends or family!
Thanksgiving: November 27
Ah, Thanksgiving. The holiday when everyone travels to visit family, eat their body weight in turkey, and inevitably get into a debate about politics. If you’re planning to travel during this time, you better have your game face on. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel days of the year. Think of it as the Super Bowl of travel—everyone is trying to get home.
Book your flights early, and consider flying on Thanksgiving Day itself. Yes, it’s a little unconventional, but you might find that the airports are less crowded, and you can enjoy a slice of pie somewhere along the way. Plus, you’ll have a solid excuse to skip the awkward family banter—“Sorry, can’t talk, I’m in the air!”
Christmas: December 25
And lastly, we have Christmas. It’s magical, it’s festive, but it’s also a travel nightmare. Airports become chaotic, and everyone seems to be in a hurry to get somewhere. If you’re venturing out during Christmas week, expect long lines and possibly missing bags. Pro tip: pack a carry-on with your essentials, just in case your checked bag decides to take a holiday of its own.
If you want to experience the magic without the madness, consider taking a trip in early December. The holiday lights are up, the atmosphere is jolly, and crowds haven’t peaked yet. Plus, you’ll have your pick of holiday markets and events before everyone else flocks in. Just remember to sip hot cocoa and enjoy the festive spirit while you can!
Tips to make your travel smoother
- Book well in advance. Seriously, like, yesterday. The earlier, the better.
- Consider alternative travel days. Sometimes flying a day before or after can save you from the madness.
- Use apps to track flight prices and book hotels. You’ll be amazed at how much you can save.
- Plan for local events. Each holiday brings unique festivities. Check out what’s going on in the area you’re visiting.
Traveling in the U.S. during public holidays can feel like a rollercoaster ride, full of ups and downs. But with the right planning, you can enjoy the journey and make the most of your experience. So pack your bags, throw in some snacks, and get ready for an adventure. After all, what’s a little chaos when there are memories to be made?
