The country of the USA has a diverse landscape and numerous states, which tourists plan to explore each year. The holidays in the USA represent the rich cultural side of the country as well as its values and traditions. People celebrate the holidays here to honor the leaders and historical or cultural milestones and each holiday comes with a whole new meaning that brings people together.
In this post, we will share insights regarding why holidays matter so much in American culture, as well as everything you need to know before you plan your visit during these times.
National Holidays in the USA (Federal Holidays)
National holidays in the USA are the ones that are officially recognized by the US federal government and are also referred as federal holidays. There are a total of 11 public holidays each year here and during these times you may observe that all the federal offices are fully closed. Even, most of the institutes also observe paid holidays, including schools and banks.
Here is a quick breakdown of these holidays that you need to know before planning your USA holidays and deciding on the right time to visit:
1. New Year’s Day
Date: January 1
As the name suggests, this holiday marks the beginning of the year and is celebrated with full zest on the first of January each year with all the government offices and firms officially closed. New Year’s Eve fireworks are the main highlight of this day, followed by dance parties and concerts.
2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Date: Third Monday in January
This holiday honors the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Government offices and other institutions are closed as people remember his fight for justice and promote social equality.
3. Presidents’ Day
Date: Third Monday in February
It is a federal holiday celebrated to commemorate the birthday of the first president of the US George Washington. Now this day recognizes all US presidents. This day refers to a patriotic day, marked by educational programs and government closures.
4. Memorial Day
Date: Last Monday in May
This day is observed to honor US military personnel who lost their life in service. It is a federal holiday marked by ceremonies, military parades, flag displays, and visits to the cemetery. It also marks the unofficial start of summer.
5. Juneteenth National Independence Day
Date: 19th of June
This holiday is celebrated to honour the end of slavery in the US and is also considered the day of freedom by many. In actual, this day pays a strong tribute to the African-American heritage with parades and prayers.
6. Independence Day
Date: July 4
This holiday in the US is celebrated as the independence or freedom day here, as a memory of getting free from the British rule. The day is celebrated with full zest, with events, fireworks, and what not. And overall, this holiday represents the country’s pride.
7. Labor Day
Date: First Monday in September
Labor Day recognizes the contributions of American workers to the nation’s strengths and prosperity. People celebrate with barbecues, festivals, and time off work, reflecting on the value of hard work and labor rights. It also marks the unofficial end of summer.
8. Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Date: Second Monday in Octobe
This day celebrates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the United States. It is a federal holiday but many states do not observe this holiday. Few states recognize this holiday as Indigenous People’s Day honoring Native American history.
9. Veterans Day
Date: November 11
Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans who have served the country. It’s a federal holiday marked by ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence. Schools and government offices close, and many communities host events to thank veterans for their bravery, sacrifice, and service to the nation.
10. Thanksgiving Day
Date: Fourth Thursday of Nov
This holiday is celebrated for paying gratitude and focusing on all the positive things that happen in life. Everyone gets two days off school or work, and it also marks the beginning of the Christmas Holiday season.
11. Christmas Day
Date: December 25
The day is celebrated on December 25, honoring the birth of Jesus Christ, with the spirit of giving and thankfulness. All the houses and buildings are fully decorated with lights and Christmas trees. Families and friends spend their time together while keeping all the routine chores behind and try to create and collect as many memories as they can.
Total state holidays in the US
In the US, each state can declare its holidays to honor its great history, local heroes, or cultural traditions. Several holidays are celebrated across different states in the US. The following are the most popular ones among them.
Major State Holidays in the U.S.:
- César Chávez Day – March 31
- Texas Independence Day – March 2
- Emancipation Day (D.C.) – April 16
- Patriots’ Day – Third Monday in April
- Pioneer Day – July 24
- Statehood Day (Hawaii) – Third Friday in August
- Alaska Day – October 18
- Prince Kūhiō Day – March 26
- Nevada Day – Last Friday in October
Hope you found the information helpful. Stay in touch for more relevant posts.
