How many national holidays does America have? This is a question that many people, both locals and tourists, often ponder. In the United States, there are a total of 10 federal holidays, which are observed nationwide. These holidays are set by Congress and are meant to celebrate important events, honor historical figures, and commemorate the nation’s achievements.
Among the 10 federal holidays, the most well-known are Independence Day on July 4th, Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November, and Christmas on December 25th. Independence Day commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Thanksgiving celebrates the harvest and the Pilgrims’ first successful harvest in 1621, and Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ.
Other notable federal holidays include New Year’s Day on January 1st, Memorial Day on the last Monday of May, and Labor Day on the first Monday of September. New Year’s Day celebrates the beginning of a new year, Memorial Day honors those who have died in military service, and Labor Day celebrates the achievements of American workers.
Additionally, there are four holidays that are observed by most Americans, though they are not federal holidays: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is celebrated on the third Monday of January, Inauguration Day, which is held on January 20th, and Columbus Day, which is celebrated on the second Monday of October. Lastly, Veterans Day, which is celebrated on November 11th, honors all military veterans.
While the number of national holidays in America may seem limited compared to some other countries, these holidays hold significant cultural and historical importance. They serve as a reminder of the nation’s values, history, and achievements, and provide an opportunity for Americans to celebrate and reflect on the country’s past and future. Moreover, these holidays also offer a chance for families and friends to come together and enjoy quality time, which is an essential aspect of American culture.
