U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has announced the administrative leave schedule for the 2026–2027 holiday season, providing eligible Government of the Virgin Islands employees with opportunities to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s, participate in the Crucian Christmas Festival, and observe the gubernatorial inauguration.
In issuing the proclamation, Governor Bryan recognized the holiday season as an important time for Virgin Islanders to honor the Territory’s history and cultural traditions, gather with family and friends, and participate in community and civic activities. The proclamation also recognizes the Crucian Christmas Festival as an important expression of the Territory’s cultural heritage.
“The Christmas season is a special time in the Virgin Islands, when families come together, communities celebrate our traditions, and we reflect on the blessings of the year,” Governor Bryan said. “The Crucian Christmas Festival is also a treasured expression of our culture and identity. We want our employees, where operations allow, to have the opportunity to participate in these traditions and enjoy meaningful time with their families and communities.”
Territory-Wide Administrative Leave
Under the proclamation, eligible non-essential employees of the Executive Branch will receive administrative leave with pay on the following dates and times:
- Thursday, December 24, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m. for Christmas Eve
- Thursday, December 31, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m. for New Year’s Eve
- Monday, January 4, 2027, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the gubernatorial inauguration ceremony
St. Croix Festival Administrative Leave
To facilitate participation in two signature Crucian Christmas Festival activities, eligible non-essential employees in the District of St. Croix will receive additional administrative leave:
- Wednesday, December 30, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m. for the Crucian Festival Food Fair
- Thursday, December 31, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon for Crucian Christmas Festival J’ouvert
Eligible St. Croix employees therefore receive administrative leave throughout the regular workday on December 31, with Festival-related leave from 8 a.m. to noon followed by the territory-wide New Year’s Eve administrative leave from noon to 5 p.m.
Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are legal holidays. The proclamation provides additional administrative leave surrounding those holidays to give eligible employees time for reflection, fellowship, celebration and participation in the Territory’s cultural traditions.
Government services will continue without interruption throughout the holiday period. The administrative leave does not apply to essential employees, employees working regular or rotating shifts, or employees who are on annual or sick leave.
The January 4 administrative leave recognizes the gubernatorial inauguration ceremony marking the commencement of the term of the 10th elected Governor of the Virgin Islands.
Governor Bryan encourages residents and government employees to enjoy the holiday and Festival season safely and responsibly while celebrating the traditions that bring Virgin Islanders together.
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure and future through transparent governance, responsible fiscal management and initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders.
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