A group of kids playing with sparklers on the Fourth of July.
HR

What Happens When a Holiday Falls Midweek?

The Fourth of July is a summer favorite for employees across America. Whether you celebrate the nation’s independence with family, friends, or fireworks, there’s no better way to celebrate than with freedom from the office. While most offices are closed in observance of the holiday, there are some years where July 4th falls on a Monday or a Thursday.


While many employees are expected to report to work the days before and after the holiday, some companies are getting into the patriotic spirit by giving employees a four day weekend when the holiday falls on a Monday or Thursday by giving employees July 5th off as well. Could this be the new normal for holidays that fall midweek? We looked at Namely’s database of over 250,000 employees to learn more about this emerging trend.


Patriotic PTO

In 2018, the Fourth of July fell on a Wednesday, leaving employers even more baffled. However, that didn’t stop employees from taking advantage of the mid-week holiday. Namely data revealed that Thursday, July 5 and Friday, July 6 were the two most popular requested days off of the summer in 2018. In 2019, the Fourth landed on a Thursday—even closer to the weekend—so it was no surprise that 8.5 percent of employees took Friday off to extend their weekend.


Would your company give employees time off on Friday, July 5th if July 4th fell on a Thursday?

Yes
No


Some companies are taking an even bolder stance on the Fourth of July long weekend. About 20 percent of Namely clients are giving July 5 the “day after Thanksgiving” treatment and giving employees an additional day off. Since it is not an official holiday, here’s how companies are recording the extra day off in their system:

  • July 5th
  • 5th of July
  • Bonus Holiday
  • Day after the 4th of July
  • Day After Independence Day
  • Floating Holiday
  • Independence Day Extended Weekend
  • Independence Day Extra Day
  • Post-Independence Day
  • Summer Office Closure

Fireworks aren’t the only way to get your employees attention this week! Adding an extra day of PTO can help encourage some much needed relaxation and leave employees refreshed and ready to hit the ground running on Monday. Too last minute to give employees the fifth off this year? Why not continue the celebration in the office with a catered barbecue lunch or team picnic?

Happy Independence Day!

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