California has officially recognized Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays.

The move gives formal recognition to two of the most important religious occasions observed by Muslims. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2017 on September 27, 2026.

The legislation adds both Eid celebrations to the state’s list of officially recognized holidays.

Assemblymember Matt Haney authored AB 2017.

With the new law, California becomes the second U.S. state to formally recognize both major Islamic festivals after Washington.

California Adds Eid Holidays Under AB 2017

The legislation is designed to make Eid observance easier for Muslim families, students and public employees.

Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr after the completion of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Eid al-Adha is another major Islamic festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide.

It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Both festivals follow the Islamic lunar calendar. Therefore, their dates change each year on the Gregorian calendar.

The legislation provides several options for observing these occasions.

What the New Eid Holiday Law Allows

Under AB 2017, public schools and community colleges can close for Eid observances.

Students observing Eid can also receive excused absences. State employees can use existing paid holiday credits to observe Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

These provisions can make it easier for Muslims to balance religious observance with education and work responsibilities.

The legislation does not mean every school or public office will automatically close for Eid.

Instead, it creates formal recognition and provides options for observance under state rules.

Bill Passed California Assembly 64-1

AB 2017 received strong support when it passed the state Assembly in May.

Background

The Assembly approved the legislation by a 64-1 vote before it moved through the remaining legislative process. California already recognizes several holidays associated with different religious and cultural communities.

These include Lunar New Year and Diwali.

Diwali was also added to the state holiday framework in 2026.

Move Affects California’s Muslim Communities

The recognition is expected to be significant for the state’s large Muslim population.

Muslim students may benefit from clearer provisions for excused absences during Eid. Public employees can also use available holiday credits for religious observance.

The change gives Eid formal recognition within the state calendar.

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For Muslim families across California, the law provides additional flexibility when observing the two major Islamic festivals.