Hawaii State Holidays 2026: Employer Guide

Hawaii recognizes 13 state holidays in 2026, including unique observances like Prince Kūhiō Day and King Kamehameha Day that reflect the islands’ distinct cultural heritage. If you employ workers in Hawaii, you need to understand these holidays and your obligations as an employer.

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

Key Takeaways

• Hawaii observes 13 paid holidays for state employees in 2026
• Several Hawaiian holidays are unique to the state and not observed elsewhere
• Private employers are not required to close on holidays but must follow specific pay rules
• Hawaii’s holiday observance rules differ when holidays fall on weekends
• Tracking Hawaiian holidays accurately is essential for multi-state employers

Hawaii State Holiday Calendar 2026

Note: Hawaii observes Good Friday as a state holiday. King Kamehameha Day (June 11) and Prince Kūhiō Day (March 26) are unique to Hawaii.

Employer Obligations for Hawaii Holidays

State Employees

Hawaii state employees receive paid time off for all 13 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

Hawaii 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
• Tourism industry — Hotels and resorts may have specific holiday requirements under their CBAs
• Restaurant and food service — May have industry-specific holiday rules

Hawaii Vacation and Holiday Interaction

Hawaii has unique rules about how holidays interact with vacation time. If a holiday falls during an employee’s vacation, it generally does not count as a vacation day. This is an important distinction for employers who track vacation accruals and usage.

Hawaii-Specific Holidays

Prince Kūhiō Day

Prince Kūhiō Day (March 26) honors Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole, a delegate to the US Congress who fought for Hawaiian rights. State offices close, and cultural events are held across the islands.

King Kamehameha Day

King Kamehameha Day (June 11) celebrates King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands. It is one of Hawaii’s most significant holidays, with statewide celebrations, floral parades, and cultural events.

Statehood Day

Statehood Day (August 21) commemorates Hawaii’s admission as the 50th state in 1959. State offices close, and community events are held across the islands.

Common Mistakes Hawaii Employers Make

1. Forgetting unique Hawaiian holidays — Prince Kūhiō Day and King Kamehameha Day catch many mainland employers off guard
2. Misapplying weekend rules — Hawaii’s rules for when holidays fall on weekends differ from other states
3. Not accounting for vacation interaction — Holidays during vacation don’t count as vacation days
4. Ignoring tourism industry CBAs — Hotels and resorts often have specific holiday requirements
5. Confusing federal and state holidays — Hawaii observes several holidays not on the federal calendar

Tracking Hawaii Holidays Across Time Zones

If you manage employees across multiple time zones, including Hawaii, your leave management system needs to account for the time difference and Hawaii’s specific holiday calendar. Leave Balance supports all 50 states with accurate holiday tracking and leave management.

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