NYREADERS.COM - The United States officially recognizes 12 federal holidays, marking occasions ranging from New Year's Day to Christmas. These holidays often result in closures for government offices and some private businesses. Weekend holidays may be observed on alternate days.
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. (Third Monday in January)
- Inauguration Day (January 20, every 4 years following a presidential election)
- Washington's Birthday (Also known as Presidents Day; third Monday in February)
- Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
- Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (First Monday in September)
- Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Memorial Day and Veterans Day, while linked, honor distinct aspects of military service. Memorial Day commemorates those who died while serving, while Veterans Day celebrates all who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
Individual states and the District of Columbia may establish their own holidays, like Emancipation Day or Indigenous Peoples Day, recognizing milestones or figures significant to their regional histories.
Additionally, numerous cultural holidays like Flag Day and Halloween, while not federally recognized, hold importance for many Americans. Presidential proclamations may highlight specific holidays or observances.
The United States also embraces a rich tapestry of religious and ethnic holidays, including Easter, the High Holy Days, Ramadan, Day of Vesak, and Diwali, reflecting the nation's diverse population.