Thanksgiving is almost here, and Orange County families are already planning trips, family dinners and childcare. Here’s everything you need to know about Thanksgiving break for Orange County Public Schools this year.
Thanksgiving Break Dates
OCPS students will be off for the full week:
- Break starts: Monday, Nov. 23, 2026
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026
- Break ends: Friday, Nov. 27, 2026
- Students return: Monday, Nov. 30, 2026
Counting the weekends on both sides, that’s nine days in a row without school, from Saturday, Nov. 21 through Sunday, Nov. 29.
Could Any Break Days Become School Days?
There’s one thing parents should keep in mind. The OCPS calendar lists Monday, Nov. 23 and Tuesday, Nov. 24 as possible severe weather make-up days. They are third and fourth on the district’s priority list, behind Presidents’ Day (Feb. 15) and the April 23 professional day.
That means the district would only use those Thanksgiving days if school had been canceled earlier in the year and the first two make-up days weren’t enough. In most years, OCPS uses few or none of these days. Still, it’s smart to keep an eye on district announcements before locking in travel plans.
Other Breaks Coming Up
If you’re already thinking ahead, here are the next big breaks on the 2026-27 calendar:
- Winter break: Monday, Dec. 21, 2026 through Friday, Jan. 1, 2027
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, Jan. 18, 2027 (no school)
Tips for Families
- Book travel early. Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel times of the year at Orlando International Airport.
- Plan childcare now. If you work during the break, local rec centers and libraries often host holiday programs, but spots fill up fast.
- Double-check the official calendar. School calendars can be updated during the year, so always confirm dates on the official OCPS website at ocps.net.