Federal holidays in the United States

Federal holidays in the United States

There are eleven federal holidays in the United States, designated as non-workdays for federal employees. Most states and private businesses also recognize these holidays, though some states have additional ones.

Here's a breakdown of the federal holidays:

New Year's Day (January 1st): Marks the start of a new year and is a time for celebrations and resolutions.

Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. (Third Monday in January): Honors civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr., whose activism and nonviolent resistance led to significant progress in racial equality.

Washington's Birthday (Third Monday in February): Also known as Presidents Day, this holiday pays tribute to the birthdays of George Washington, the nation's first president, and Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president who played a pivotal role in abolishing slavery.

Memorial Day (Last Monday in May): A solemn day to remember and honor members of the United States Armed Forces who have died while serving their country.

Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19th): Commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. Juneteenth, also known as Jubilee Day, became a federal holiday in 2021.

Independence Day (July 4th): Celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, marking the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation. Fireworks displays and patriotic gatherings are common traditions.

Labor Day (First Monday in September): Honors the contributions that workers have made to the country's economy. Observed with parades and picnics, Labor Day also signifies the unofficial end of summer.

Columbus Day (Second Monday in October): Celebrates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. It's a day to recognize the historical significance of this event, while some have also highlighted the impact of European exploration on Native American populations.

Veterans Day (November 11th): Honors veterans of the United States Armed Forces, a day to express gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November): A national day of giving thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. Feasts with family and friends are a central tradition.

Christmas Day (December 25th): A Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Many attend church services, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.