Are you ready to discover the fascinating world of US holidays? From the cheerful spirit of New Year’s Day to the patriotic fervor of Independence Day, the United States is a country that celebrates a wide array of holidays with great enthusiasm. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the order of US holidays, one by one, and delve into the rich history and traditions behind each of them. Get ready to be amazed by the diversity and vibrancy of American culture as we take a journey through the year’s most significant celebrations.
US Holidays by Month
January
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, which falls on January 1st, is a public holiday in the United States. It marks the beginning of a new year and is often celebrated with festive gatherings, fireworks displays, and the exchange of gifts. The day is also commonly associated with making resolutions for the upcoming year.
National Heroes Day
National Heroes Day, also known as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is a federal holiday that honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent civil rights leader who fought for racial equality and justice in the United States. The holiday is observed on the third Monday of January and is a day of service and reflection for many Americans.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday that honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent civil rights leader who fought for racial equality and justice in the United States. The holiday is observed on the third Monday of January and is a day of service and reflection for many Americans. It is also a day when many organizations and communities come together to volunteer and support causes related to social justice and equality.
February
Groundhog Day
- Occurs on February 2nd
- Tradition dating back to 1887 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
- Features a groundhog named Phil who emerges from his burrow to predict the weather
- Celebrated with parades, festivals, and various events across the country
Presidents’ Day
- Held on the third Monday of February
- Honors all U.S. presidents, both past and present
- Originally established to celebrate George Washington’s birthday
- Many businesses and government offices closed in observance
National Inventors’ Day
- Observed on February 11th
- Recognizes the contributions of inventors to society
- Marks the anniversary of the patent granted to Thomas Edison for his electric lamp
- A day to acknowledge and appreciate the innovations that shape our daily lives
March
St. Patrick’s Day
- Description:
- St. Patrick’s Day is a festive holiday celebrated annually on March 17th in the United States, honoring the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick.
- It originated as a religious feast day for Saint Patrick, but has since become a celebration of Irish culture and heritage, marked by parades, music, dancing, and traditional Irish food and drink.
- The day is also associated with the color green, which is believed to be the color of Saint Patrick’s clover, and is often worn or displayed by participants in the celebrations.
- Importance:
- St. Patrick’s Day is an important cultural holiday for people of Irish descent and a fun and festive occasion for many others in the United States.
- It provides an opportunity to learn about and celebrate Irish traditions and customs, and to honor the contributions of Irish-Americans to the country’s history and culture.
- Customs and Traditions:
- Participating in parades or attending local parades.
- Wearing green clothing or accessories.
- Enjoying traditional Irish food and drink, such as corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, and green beer.
- Listening to Irish music and dancing, or participating in Irish dance performances.
- Attending Irish cultural events or festivals.
National Puppy Day
+ National Puppy Day is an annual holiday celebrated on March 23rd in the United States, dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of puppies and promoting the adoption of shelter dogs.
+ It was founded by Colleen Paige in 2006 and has since become a popular holiday, encouraging people to give a "forever home" to a puppy in need.
+ The day also promotes the importance of responsible pet ownership and the positive impact that dogs can have on their human companions.
+ National Puppy Day is an important holiday for animal lovers and advocates, as it raises awareness about the issues facing puppies and encourages people to make a positive impact by adopting a dog in need.
+ It highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the benefits that dogs can bring to their human companions, such as providing love, companionship, and security.
+ Adopting a puppy or donating to a local animal shelter or rescue organization.
+ Sharing photos and stories of adopted puppies on social media using the hashtag #NationalPuppyDay.
+ Volunteering at a local animal shelter or participating in puppy-related events or activities.
+ Donating to animal-related charities or organizations.
National Day of Observance
+ The National Day of Observance is a holiday celebrated on March 30th in the United States, recognizing the importance of observation and observance in science, education, and research.
+ It was established by the National Observatory in 2018 and aims to promote the value of observation and the scientific method in understanding the world around us.
+ The day also highlights the role of observation <strong>in advancing knowledge and understanding</strong> in various fields, including astronomy, biology, and physics.
+ The National Day of Observance is an important holiday for promoting the importance of observation and scientific inquiry in our daily lives and <strong>in advancing knowledge and understanding</strong> in various fields.
+ It encourages people to think critically and to observe and study the world around them, and to appreciate the value of scientific inquiry and the scientific method <strong>in advancing knowledge and understanding</strong>.
+ Participating in scientific or educational activities or events, such as stargazing, birdwatching, or visiting a science museum or planetarium.
+ Learning about the history and significance of scientific observation and the scientific method.
+ Sharing observations and discoveries on social media using the hashtag #NationalDayOfObservance.
+ Volunteering or donating to scientific or educational organizations or institutions.
April
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is observed on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox, which typically falls between March 22nd and April 25th. Easter is a time for Christians to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus and the hope of eternal life through his resurrection.
National Siblings Day
National Siblings Day is a holiday celebrated on April 10th in the United States. It was first established in 1998 by the late President of the United States, Bill Clinton, to honor the special bond between siblings. It is a day to recognize the positive impact that siblings can have on each other’s lives and to appreciate the unique relationship that they share.
National Tax Day
National Tax Day is a holiday that falls on April 15th each year. It is the deadline for filing your annual income tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This holiday is an important date for many Americans, as it marks the end of the tax season and the final deadline for submitting tax returns.
May
May is a month filled with various holidays in the United States, each celebrating different aspects of American culture and heritage.
Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is a special day dedicated to honoring mothers and mother figures who have made a significant impact on our lives. It is celebrated on the second Sunday of May in the United States.
- History of Mother’s Day: Mother’s Day has been celebrated in various forms since ancient times, but it was officially recognized as a holiday in the United States in 1914.
- Traditions: Mother’s Day is often celebrated with family gatherings, gift-giving, and special gestures of appreciation for mothers and mother figures.
- Symbols: The most common symbols associated with Mother’s Day are flowers, particularly carnations, and cards.
National Maritime Day
National Maritime Day is celebrated on May 22nd in the United States and commemorates the nation’s maritime heritage.
- History of National Maritime Day: National Maritime Day was first celebrated in 1933 to honor the nation’s maritime industry and its contribution to American commerce and defense.
- Significance: National Maritime Day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of the maritime industry to the American economy and to honor the men and women who work in this field.
- Observances: National Maritime Day is observed with parades, ceremonies, and other events that celebrate the maritime industry and its contribution to American history and culture.
National Police Week
National Police Week is an annual observance held in the United States to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.
- History of National Police Week: National Police Week was established in 1962 and is held each year during the week of May 15th, which is Peace Officers Memorial Day.
- Significance: National Police Week is a time to remember and honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers who have given their lives to protect and serve their communities.
- Observances: National Police Week is observed with ceremonies, parades, and other events that pay tribute to fallen officers and their families.
June
June is a month filled with celebrations and observances in the United States. From Father’s Day to National Gardening Exercise Day, there is a holiday for everyone.
Father’s Day
Father’s Day is a holiday celebrated on the third Sunday of June in the United States. It was first observed in 1910 to honor fathers and father figures, such as grandfathers and uncles, who have made a significant impact on their children’s lives. Today, it is a time for families to come together and show appreciation for the father figures in their lives.
National Gardening Exercise Day
National Gardening Exercise Day is celebrated on June 14th in the United States. It is a day to encourage people to get outside and enjoy the benefits of gardening, including physical exercise and mental well-being. Gardening can be a great way to stay active and healthy while also enjoying the beauty of nature.
National Donut Day
National Donut Day is celebrated on the first Friday of June in the United States. It is a day to recognize the role that donuts have played in American culture and history. Donuts have been a popular treat for generations, and National Donut Day is a time to celebrate this delicious dessert.
Overall, June is a month filled with a variety of holidays and observances, each offering an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate different aspects of American culture and history.
July
- Independence Day
- The Fourth of July is a federal holiday in the United States, celebrated on July 4th.
- It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring the 13 American colonies independent from British rule.
- The day is typically marked with parades, fireworks, and patriotic events.
- National Ice Cream Day
- National Ice Cream Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in July.
- It was first established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 and has since become a beloved American tradition.
- The day is a chance for Americans to enjoy their favorite ice cream flavors and celebrate the summer season.
- National Parks Service Birthday
- The National Parks Service was established on August 25, 1916, but its birthday is celebrated on July 31st.
- The agency is responsible for managing and preserving the nation’s national parks, monuments, and other protected areas.
- The day is a chance to honor the rich history and natural beauty of the United States and to appreciate the efforts of the National Parks Service to protect it.
August
August is a month filled with a variety of holidays in the United States, each with its unique significance and celebratory style.
National Aviation Day
National Aviation Day is celebrated on August 19th and is a day set aside to honor the achievements and contributions of the aviation industry. It is a day to commemorate the history of flight and to recognize the advancements that have been made in the field of aviation.
National Relaxation Day
National Relaxation Day is celebrated on August 15th and is a day to encourage people to take a break from their busy schedules and indulge in some self-care. It is a day to remind people to take time for themselves and to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate.
National Sisters Day
National Sisters Day is celebrated on August 4th and is a day to honor the bond and love between sisters. It is a day to celebrate the special relationship that sisters share and to express appreciation for the support and encouragement they provide to one another.
These holidays are a great opportunity to learn about the history and significance of aviation, to prioritize self-care, and to cherish the relationships with our siblings.
September
- Labor Day
- Origins and History
- The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City.
- The holiday was created to recognize the contributions of workers to the economy and to advocate for better working conditions.
- Traditions and Celebrations
- Many Americans celebrate Labor Day by enjoying a day off from work, attending parades, and participating in outdoor activities.
- Some communities also hold festivals and events to honor the holiday.
- Origins and History
- National Grandparents Day
– National Grandparents Day was first observed on September 1, 1979, by the U.S. Senate.
– The holiday was established to honor grandparents and to recognize the important role they play in families.
– On National Grandparents Day, many families take the time to visit with their grandparents, send them cards or gifts, or simply call to wish them well.
– Some communities also hold events and activities to celebrate the holiday. - National Punctuation Day
– National Punctuation Day was founded by Jeff Rubin in 2004 to promote the proper use of punctuation in the English language.
– The holiday is celebrated on September 24th each year.
– On National Punctuation Day, many people take the time to review their writing and make sure they are using punctuation correctly.
– Some schools and libraries also hold events and activities to teach about the importance of punctuation in communication.
October
Halloween
Halloween, also known as All Hallows’ Eve, is a yearly holiday celebrated on October 31st. It originated as a pagan festival over 2,000 years ago and has since become a widely recognized secular holiday in the United States. The tradition of Halloween involves dressing up in costumes, trick-or-treating, and attending parties. Children and adults alike often participate in the festivities, with the latter often hosting elaborate Halloween-themed parties. The popularity of Halloween has led to an increase in spending on costumes, candy, and decorations, making it a significant economic holiday in the US.
National Fitness Day
National Fitness Day is a holiday dedicated to promoting physical fitness and healthy living. It is observed on the first Wednesday of October each year. The day encourages individuals to prioritize their health and well-being by engaging in physical activity, such as exercise or sports. Many gyms and fitness centers offer special classes or events on this day to encourage participation. Additionally, employers and schools may organize activities or challenges to promote a healthy lifestyle. National Fitness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and promotes the idea that physical activity can be fun and enjoyable.
National Cat Day
National Cat Day is a holiday dedicated to celebrating the joys of cat ownership and raising awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership. It is observed on October 29th each year. The day encourages cat owners to show their cats extra love and affection and to provide them with the care and attention they need. It also serves as a reminder to spay or neuter cats to prevent overpopulation and to support local animal shelters and rescue organizations. National Cat Day has gained popularity on social media, with many cat owners sharing photos and stories about their feline companions. It has become a fun and lighthearted way to celebrate the unique bond between cats and their owners.
November
Thanksgiving Day
- Occurs on the fourth Thursday of November
- Celebrates the harvest and the blessings of the past year
- Traditional feast with family and friends, including roasted turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie
- Originated as a religious holiday for the Pilgrims, who gave thanks for their survival and first harvest in the New World
- Traditional parades, such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, are held on this day
National Day of Giving
- Takes place on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving Day
- Encourages individuals to donate to charitable causes and support their communities
- Many organizations and businesses participate in fundraising campaigns and volunteer activities
- Created to kick off the holiday season with a focus on giving and generosity
National Family Health & Fitness Day
- Occurs on the last Saturday of November
- Promotes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for families
- Encourages physical activity and healthy eating habits
- Many events and activities take place across the country, including fitness classes, health fairs, and community walks
- Aims to raise awareness about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and the importance of family involvement in maintaining it
December
December is a month filled with festive holidays in the United States. Christmas Day, which falls on December 25th, is a federal holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, and enjoying the winter season.
In addition to Christmas Day, December also marks National Christmas Lights Day on December 10th. This holiday celebrates the tradition of decorating homes and businesses with Christmas lights. Many people take great pride in their light displays and compete in neighborhood contests to see who can create the most spectacular display.
Another holiday celebrated in December is National Boxing Day, which falls on December 26th. This holiday originated in the United Kingdom and is celebrated in some parts of the world, including the United States. It is a day for charitable giving and for giving boxes of food and gifts to those in need.
Overall, December is a month filled with holidays that celebrate the joy and generosity of the holiday season. Whether you are celebrating Christmas Day, National Christmas Lights Day, or National Boxing Day, December is a time to cherish the traditions and customs that make this time of year so special.
Special Occasions and Observances
The United States celebrates numerous special occasions and observances throughout the year, which serve to honor significant events, people, and causes. These special occasions and observances can be categorized into three main categories: National Awareness Days, National Awareness Months, and Special Celebrations.
National Awareness Days
National Awareness Days are special days designated to raise awareness about a particular issue or cause. These days are often observed by individuals, organizations, and communities across the country. Some examples of National Awareness Days include:
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Observed on the third Monday of January, this holiday honors the life and legacy of the civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr.
- Earth Day: Observed on April 22, this holiday encourages individuals to take action to protect the environment and promote sustainability.
- National Day of Prayer: Observed on the first Thursday of May, this holiday encourages individuals to pray for the country and its leaders.
National Awareness Months
National Awareness Months are special months designated to raise awareness about a particular issue or cause. These months are often observed by individuals, organizations, and communities across the country. Some examples of National Awareness Months include:
- Black History Month: Observed in February, this month honors the contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history.
- National Hispanic Heritage Month: Observed from September 15 to October 15, this month celebrates the contributions and achievements of Hispanic Americans.
- National Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Observed in October, this month focuses on promoting online safety and security.
Special Celebrations
Special Celebrations are events that are observed throughout the year to commemorate significant historical events or cultural traditions. Some examples of Special Celebrations include:
- Chinese New Year: Observed in late January or early February, this holiday marks the beginning of the Chinese lunar calendar and is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and other cultural events.
- St. Patrick’s Day: Observed on March 17, this holiday honors the patron saint of Ireland and is celebrated with parades, parties, and Irish food and drink.
- Halloween: Observed on October 31, this holiday involves dressing up in costumes and trick-or-treating.
In conclusion, the United States observes a wide range of special occasions and observances throughout the year, each with its own unique history and traditions. By understanding and appreciating these special occasions and observances, we can better appreciate the diversity and richness of American culture.
US Holidays FAQs
What are the most important holidays in the US?
The most important holidays in the US are New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
What are the dates of US holidays?
The dates of US holidays vary, but some of the most common holidays include New Year’s Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January), Presidents’ Day (third Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (first Monday in September), Columbus Day (second Monday in October), Veterans Day (November 11), Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November), and Christmas (December 25).
How are holidays celebrated in the US?
Holidays in the US are celebrated in a variety of ways, depending on the holiday and the cultural background of the people celebrating. Some holidays are celebrated with religious ceremonies, while others are celebrated with parades, parties, and family gatherings.
What are some unique holidays celebrated in the US?
Some unique holidays celebrated in the US include Groundhog Day (February 2), which marks the beginning of spring, and Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday), which is celebrated before the start of Lent. Other unique holidays include National Donut Day (first Friday in June), National Ice Cream Day (third Sunday in July), and National Cat Day (October 29).
What is the history behind US holidays?
The history behind US holidays is rich and varied, with many holidays having roots in cultural or religious traditions. For example, Independence Day commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, while Thanksgiving has roots in the celebrations of early American colonists. The history of each holiday provides insight into the values and beliefs of the American people.
FAQs
1. What are the holidays celebrated in the US?
The United States celebrates a wide range of holidays, including both national holidays and cultural holidays. Some of the most commonly celebrated holidays in the US include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
2. What is the order of US holidays throughout the year?
The order of US holidays throughout the year begins with New Year’s Day, which is celebrated on January 1st. Next comes Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is celebrated on the third Monday of January in honor of the civil rights leader. In February, Presidents’ Day is celebrated, which honors all the US presidents, including George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. In May, Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of the month to honor those who have died while serving in the US armed forces. Independence Day, which celebrates the Declaration of Independence, is celebrated on July 4th. Labor Day, which honors the contributions of workers, is celebrated on the first Monday of September. Columbus Day, which honors Christopher Columbus, is celebrated on the second Monday of October. Veterans Day, which honors all those who have served in the US armed forces, is celebrated on November 11th. Thanksgiving, which is a time for families to gather and give thanks, is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Finally, Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, is celebrated on December 25th.
3. How are holidays celebrated in the US?
Holidays in the US are celebrated in a variety of ways, depending on the holiday and the culture. Some holidays, such as New Year’s Day and Independence Day, are celebrated with parades, fireworks displays, and other public events. Other holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, are typically celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and gift-giving. Some holidays, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Veterans Day, are celebrated with speeches, ceremonies, and other events to honor those who have made significant contributions to the country.
4. Are there any other holidays celebrated in the US?
Yes, there are many other holidays celebrated in the US, both nationally and culturally. Some examples include Easter, Halloween, Cinco de Mayo, and St. Patrick’s Day. Additionally, some states and communities celebrate local holidays and events, such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans and the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.