Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued a proclamation outlining the Government of the Virgin Islands’ official holiday work schedule for the 2025–26 season and authorizing commissioners and agency heads to grant administrative leave to nonessential employees. The measure is intended to give public workers time to observe Christmas and New Year traditions and participate in the Crucian Christmas Festival, which the proclamation highlights as a significant cultural and economic event for the territory.
The governor noted the meaning of the season, describing Christmas as a period marked by joy, family gatherings, and cultural celebration. He also spoke to the role of the Crucian Christmas Festival in showcasing Virgin Islands heritage and supporting local businesses. “As Virgin Islanders, we use this season to gather with our families, show hospitality to visitors and celebrate the traditions that make our islands unique,” Governor Bryan said. “This administrative leave allows our public servants to share in the joy of the Crucian Festival, support our small businesses and be present with their loved ones during the holidays.”
Under the proclamation, commissioners and agency heads may grant administrative leave to nonessential employees on the following dates:
Administrative Leave — St. Croix Only
Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025
Administrative leave from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for nonessential employees on St. Croix to participate in J’ouvert, the St. Croix Festival Food Fair, and New Year’s Eve activities.
Administrative Leave — St. Thomas-St. John Only
Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025
Administrative leave from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for nonessential employees on St. Thomas and St. John to observe New Year’s Eve and take part in festivities.
Administrative Leave — Territory-wide
Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025
Administrative leave from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for nonessential employees across the territory to observe and honor Christmas Eve.
Friday, Jan. 2, 2026
Administrative leave from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for nonessential employees across the territory to participate in the St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival Children’s Parade.
The proclamation reiterates the cultural and economic significance of the season’s major events, including the Food Fair, J’ouvert, Children’s Parade, and Adults’ Parade. It also encourages Virgin Islanders to use the holidays as a time for fellowship, reflection, and prayer for continued growth and restoration across families, the economy, and the broader community.
The administrative leave provisions exclude essential employees, employees on rotating or regular shifts, and those already on annual or sick leave during the designated periods.
Legal holidays for the 2025–26 season remain unchanged under Title 1 V.I.C. § 171. These include Christmas Day on Thursday, December 25, 2025; Christmas Second Day on Friday, December 26, 2025; New Year’s Day on Thursday, January 1, 2026; and Three Kings Day on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
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