Want to turn your limited vacation days into extended getaways? Smart planning around federal holidays can effectively double your time off without using extra PTO. In 2025, strategic scheduling of just 10-12 vacation days can create multiple long weekends and even a few 9-day breaks. We’ve analyzed the 2025 calendar to identify the most advantageous days to request off, helping you maximize your precious vacation time. Whether you’re planning a dream vacation or just need extra time with family, these carefully selected dates will help you make the most of your paid time off.
- January 2 – January 3 – Take 2 days after New Year’s Day for a 5-day weekend
- January 17 – Take Friday before MLK Day for a 4-day weekend
- February 14 – Take Friday before Presidents Day for a 4-day weekend
- May 23 – Take Friday before Memorial Day for a 4-day weekend
- July 3 – Take day before Independence Day for a 4-day weekend
- August 29 – Take Friday before Labor Day for a 4-day weekend
- October 10 – Take Friday before Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day for a 4-day weekend
- November 10 – Take Monday before Veterans Day – for a 4-day weekend
- November November 24 – November 26 – Take three days before Thanksgiving for a 9-day break (Best Value!)
- December 26 – Take day after Christmas for a 4-day weekend
Best Value: November 24-26 Take these three days before Thanksgiving to get a full 9-day vacation (including weekends) while only using 3 vacation days.
Remember, the key to maximizing these opportunities is planning ahead. Many employers require vacation requests months in advance, especially around popular holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. By submitting your requests early for these strategic dates, you’ll be well-positioned to enjoy multiple extended breaks throughout the year. Consider sharing this schedule with your HR department or supervisor early in the year to ensure you can take advantage of these optimal dates. With this strategic approach to planning your 2025 time off, you can enjoy more vacation time while using fewer PTO days – making your time off work harder for you.
