Holy Days of Obligation 2026 (United States)
Besides every Sunday, Catholics in the United States are obliged to attend Mass on the holy days below. When a date shows No, the feast is still celebrated but the obligation to attend is lifted for that year under the norms of the U.S. bishops.
| Holy Day | Date | Obligation |
|---|---|---|
| Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God | Thursday, January 1, 2026 | Yes |
| The Ascension of the Lord A holy day of obligation; transferred to Sunday in most U.S. dioceses. |
Thursday, May 14, 2026 | Yes |
| Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Obligation abrogated this year (falls on a Saturday or Monday). |
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | No |
| All Saints | Sunday, November 1, 2026 | Yes |
| Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Patronal feast of the United States; always a holy day of obligation. |
Tuesday, December 8, 2026 | Yes |
| The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) Always a holy day of obligation. |
Friday, December 25, 2026 | Yes |
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Holy days vary by country and, for the Ascension, by diocese. This list reflects the norms for the United States. Source: USCCB.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many holy days of obligation are there in 2026?
In the United States in 2026, there are 5 holy days on which Catholics are obliged to attend Mass (in addition to every Sunday).
Why are some holy days not obligatory this year?
In the United States, when the Solemnity of Mary (January 1), the Assumption (August 15), or All Saints (November 1) falls on a Saturday or a Monday, the obligation to attend Mass is abrogated, though the feast is still celebrated.
Are Sundays holy days of obligation?
Yes. Every Sunday of the year is a holy day of obligation, the foremost of all, on which Catholics are bound to participate in Mass.