Is Good Friday a holiday in Texas? Here’s what to know
Texas is one of the most religious states in the country, with many residents identifying as Christian.
So when Good Friday, one of the most important days in the Christian faith, comes around, you might expect it to be widely recognized across the state.
But in Texas, it’s not treated the same as major holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving.
Instead, it falls into a different category under state law.
Here’s what’s to know.
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, a central event observed across the Christian faith.
While the name may seem confusing, many Christians consider it “good” because they believe Jesus’ sacrifice brought redemption and restored a relationship between humanity and God, according to the Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land.
Across traditions, the day is typically marked by church services, prayer, fasting and reflection, with some denominations observing it as one of the most solemn days of the year.
In 2026, Good Friday falls on April 3 for Catholics and most Protestant denominations, while Orthodox Christians observe it on April 10.
Is Good Friday a holiday in Texas?
Yes, but not in the traditional sense.
In Texas, Good Friday is listed as an optional holiday for state employees, meaning state offices aren’t automatically closed, and employees can choose whether to take the day off or work.
In some cases, local governments do choose to close.
For example, in Tarrant County, officials have approved a full closure for the holiday.
Some Texas court holiday calendars also list Good Friday as a closure day.
Is there controversy around Good Friday in Texas?
Yes. In March, Texas Values, a conservative Christian advocacy group, called on Austin Independent School District to restore Good Friday as a school holiday after the district chose not to close.
“Canceling Good Friday is punishing Christian students by forcing them to attend school instead of attending religious services on that day,” the group wrote in a letter to the district.
The organization also pointed to Texas Education Code, which requires schools to excuse students who are absent to observe a religious holy day and allow time to make up missed work.
Despite those concerns, Austin ISD decided to keep schools open on Good Friday for the current school year.
