US Federal Holidays

The following is a list and short description of the Federal holidays in the United States of America.

New Year’s Day: (January 1st): The night before, known as New Year’s Eve, is usually celebrated with friends. There are large fireworks displays and many special events. Many people decide to make a New Year’s resolution in order to change something in their life. Just before mid-night there is a big countdown for the new year. 
 
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (3rd Monday of January): This day honors Reverend Dr. MLK Jr. for his achievements during the civil rights movement. This day is also the start of Black History Month, which takes place throughout February. 
 
Washington’s Birthday (3rd Monday in February): This is also known as Presidents’ Day. This day is used to celebrate America’s first president George Washington as well as the presidents that have served America. 

Memorial Day (last Monday of May): This holiday honors American soldiers who died during service. Originally, it was to honor Union soldiers during the Civil War.
Many people visit cemeteries and war memorials with their families. It is also common for people to fly their flags at half-staff until noon.

Independence Day (July 4th): America officially became independent from England on this day in 1776. On Independence Day, there are very big fireworks displays, parades, family gatherings, and parties with friends. 
 
Labor Day (1st Monday in September): This was made a holiday following a major strike between labor unions and railway companies. During the strike, multiple people were killed and many were wounded by U.S. Marshals and Army troops. 
 
Typically, families get together to relax and many families have a barbecue. This holiday also marks the beginning of the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletics Association) and NFL (National Football League) seasons. 




Columbus Day (2nd Monday in October): This celebrates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas. Depending upon the state, the celebration varies. ***There are two states that do not even recognize this as a holiday. Hawaii has Discover’s Day, which celebrates Polynesian discoverers of Hawaii. South Dakota celebrates this day as Native American Day. 
 
Veterans’ Day (November 11th): American, as well as Allied forces, troops are honored on this day. This also marks the end of World War I.
 
Thanksgiving Day (3rd Thursday in November): During this day, Americans sit down to eat with their families. This holiday was said to have been a celebration between Wampanoag native Americans and the pilgrims in 1621. In general, people give thanks for all that they have. 

Christmas Day (December 25th): Despite having a separation of church and state law, the U.S. reserves this day to commemorate the birth of Jesus. In America, people open their presents on the morning of the 25th.