August 2026 Calendar

August 2026 has 31 days. August is one of seven months in the calendar year with 31 days (January, March, May, July, August, October, and December). August is named after Augustus Caesar, the first Roman emperor.

August 2026 starts on Saturday, August 1st, 2026. This means the month begins on a weekend, providing five full weekends throughout August. Starting on Saturday creates a nice pattern of weekends and weekdays throughout the month, with 21 weekdays and 10 weekend days total.

No, August 2026 does not have any federal holidays in the United States. August is one of only four months without a federal holiday (along with March, April, and August). The previous federal holiday is Independence Day in July, and the next federal holiday is Labor Day on the first Monday of September. Despite having no federal holidays, August is significant as back to school month.

Most schools in the United States start between mid-August and early September. The exact date varies significantly by state and school district. Southern states often begin earlier, sometimes in the first or second week of August, while northeastern and midwestern states may start in late August or even after Labor Day. Many schools begin during the third or fourth week of August 2026. Parents should check with their local school district for specific start dates.

August 2026 has 21 weekdays (Monday through Friday) and 10 weekend days (Saturdays and Sundays). Since there are no federal holidays in August 2026, all 21 weekdays are standard working days for most employees. August provides five full weekends, making it excellent for end-of-summer activities and family time before school starts.

August is traditionally back to school month because most K-12 schools and colleges begin their academic year during the latter half of August or early September. This tradition dates back to when America was primarily an agricultural society, and students needed summers off to help with farming. The extended summer break became standard, with most schools starting in late August. This timing allows for approximately 180 days of instruction before the school year ends in late May or early June.

August offers many summer activities including: last beach trips and lake vacations before school starts; state fairs and county fairs with rides, food, and competitions; outdoor concerts and music festivals; camping and hiking trips; water parks and amusement parks; back to school shopping for supplies and clothes; family vacations before the school year begins; outdoor sports like swimming, boating, and fishing; and BBQs and outdoor dining. Many families try to squeeze in final summer adventures before returning to school and work routines.

Labor Day 2026 falls on Monday, September 7th, 2026. This federal holiday marks the unofficial end of summer and is celebrated with barbecues, outdoor activities, and often the final beach trips of the season. Labor Day weekend (Saturday, September 5th through Monday, September 7th) is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. By the time Labor Day arrives, most schools have already started their academic year.