Georgia State Holidays 2026: Employer Guide

Georgia observes 12 state holidays in 2026, including unique observances like Confederate Memorial Day and Robert E. Lee’s Birthday. The Peach State has a distinct holiday calendar that affects state employees and may impact private employer scheduling.

Here’s your complete guide to Georgia state holidays in 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Georgia observes 12 paid holidays for state employees in 2026
• Georgia has unique holidays like Confederate Memorial Day and Robert E. Lee’s Birthday
• Private employers are not required to close on holidays or pay premium rates
• Georgia’s holiday rules differ from federal holidays in several ways
• Atlanta may have additional local requirements for certain industries

Georgia State Holiday Calendar 2026

Note: Georgia observes Confederate Memorial Day (April 27) and Robert E. Lee’s Birthday (November 10) as state holidays. These are not observed by most other states.

Employer Obligations for Georgia Holidays

State Employees

Georgia state employees receive paid time off for all 12 holidays listed above. When a holiday falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday is observed. When it falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed.

Private Employers

Georgia law does not require private employers to close on holidays or pay premium rates for holiday work. However:

• Company policy — If your handbook promises holiday pay, you must honor it
• Collective bargaining agreements — CBAs may require holiday premiums
• Atlanta — May have additional requirements for certain industries
• Georgia Wage Payment Law — Promised holiday pay must be paid on time

Georgia’s Right-to-Work Status

Georgia is a right-to-work state, which affects how unions can negotiate holiday premiums. If you have unionized employees, their CBA may specify holiday pay, but non-union employees generally have no statutory holiday rights.

Georgia-Specific Holidays

Confederate Memorial Day

Confederate Memorial Day (April 27) is observed as a state holiday in Georgia. This holiday is controversial, and many private employers choose not to observe it. State offices close, and cultural events are held across the state.

Robert E. Lee’s Birthday

Robert E. Lee’s Birthday (November 10) is observed as a state holiday in Georgia. State offices close, and it is often observed in conjunction with Veterans Day, creating a longer break for state employees.

Common Mistakes Georgia Employers Make

1. Forgetting Confederate Memorial Day — This holiday catches many multi-state employers off guard
2. Ignoring Robert E. Lee’s Birthday — This unique holiday is often overlooked
3. Not accounting for long weekends — Veterans Day and Robert E. Lee’s Birthday create consecutive holidays
4. Confusing state and federal holidays — Georgia observes several holidays not on the federal calendar
5. Missing Atlanta requirements — The city may have additional regulations

This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment attorney for guidance specific to your situation.