The United States’ national holidays are a kaleidoscope of its past events, cultural variations and morals. Different traditions, observances and at times days off for millions of Americans are always associated with different holidays. In 2024, the United States will observe 11 federal holidays, each significant in its own right. The American life is woven with these holidays, either to remember certain events in history, remember some prominent personalities or celebrate some national ideals. Let’s delve into each of these holidays, exploring their origins, significance, and how they are observed today.
The New Year’s Day – January 1, Monday
New Year’s Day which is the first day of the year; this is one of the most globally celebrated occasions, while in America it is revered as a time of both introspection and resolution. People tend to welcome the new year by engaging in various activities on January 1, 2024. These include watching the famous ball drop in New York City’s Times Square, attending parties, making resolutions, and spending time with loved ones. The holiday symbolizes fresh starts and new beginnings, with many people setting personal goals for the year ahead.
In addition to personal resolutions, New Year’s Day often features parades, such as the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, which showcases elaborate floats adorned with flowers. Football also plays a significant role, with major college bowl games like the Rose Bowl attracting millions of viewers.
The Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday – January 15th Monday
It is on third Monday in January that this day is celebrated; it promotes Dr. Martin Luther king who was an eminent player in the American civil rights movements. In 2024, this day falls on January 15, coinciding with Dr. King’s birthday. In order to foster certain improvements with respect to civil rights and other forms of justice still being struggled for, we are reminded by this day.
A few of Dr. King’s exceptional traits include his leading role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, participation in March on Washington where he delivered the timeless “I Have a Dream” speech, and non-violent means proposed by him against racial segregation and discrimination. His legacy persists in serving as a source of motivation for others who seek social justice.
Presidents’ Day – Monday 19th February
Presidents’ Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February commemorates all US presidents’ birthdays and contributions including George Washington (who was the first US president) and Abraham Lincoln who led America through its civil war. In 2024, Presidents’ Day falls on February 19.
Initially established in 1885 to honor George Washington’s birthday, the holiday was later moved to the third Monday in February as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which aimed to provide workers with more three-day weekends. Over time, the day evolved to honor not just Washington but all U.S. presidents.
Memorial Day—Monday, May 27
The last Monday in May is strictly observed as Memorial Day, which is a day that is used to honor the brave souls who died fighting for America.
Memorial Day shall fall on May 27 in year 2024. The holiday has its roots in the aftermath of the Civil War, when various communities began holding springtime tributes to the countless fallen soldiers.
Over time, Memorial Day has transformed into more than just a day of sorrow and respect; it has also included things such as parades, family get-togethers and the unofficial launch of summer. Therefore, many people across America visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their tributes. Moreover, flagging graves with flags or flower arrangements stands as a custom during this day-of remembrance.In addition to these observances, Memorial Day is a time for patriotic events and a reflection on the sacrifices made by service members.
This day serves as a reminder of how much freedom actually costs. It also emphasizes the need to honor those who have served the army selflessly.
Juneteenth National Independence Day- Wednesday June 19th
Juneteenth otherwise known as Juneteenth National Independence Day marks the emancipation of African Americans from slavery.
This holiday commemorates June 19th, 1865 when union troops entered Galveston Texas announcing that Civil War was over with no mention of slavery being there anymore at least not legally speaking. The Emancipation Proclamation however was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1st 1863 but surprisingly enough it took more than 2 years before this news reached Texas.
In 2024, Juneteenth falls on a Wednesday, June 19.
Juneteenth otherwise known as Juneteenth National Independence Day marks the emancipation of African Americans from slavery. This holiday commemorates June 19th, 1865 when union troops entered Galveston Texas announcing that Civil War was over with no mention of slavery being there anymore at least not legally speaking. The Emancipation Proclamation however was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1st 1863 but surprisingly enough it took more than 2 years before this news reached Texas.
Independence Day – Thursday, July 4
The Fourth of July commonly called Independence Day is among the most celebrated holidays in America. It marks the anniversary of signing into action the Declaration of Independence on 4th July 1776 when thirteen American colonies broke free from England. In 2024, the holiday falls on a Thursday.
Fireworks, parades, barbecues and concerts are among the enshrined patriotism associated with Fourth of July. People come together to celebrate America’s birthday while towns have events like fireworks displays and festivals open to everyone. For this holiday every American has an opportunity to show their love for their nation as well as think about freedom and democracy ideals that this country was founded on.
Moreover, historical reenactments alongside reading of the Declaration can also be found in specific places especially in Philadelphia where this ancient paper was signed.
Labor Day – Monday, September 2
Labor Day honors the contributions made by American workers and recognizes the labor movement for its part in these accomplishments as a celebration that takes place on the first Monday of September each year. In 2024, Labor Day will be observed on September 2. This holiday was created during periods characterized with numerous strikes and protests within labor organizations in the United States at a time when they were under heavy attack from government forces, but later established itself as an occasion for rest and joy to many employed people.
Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, with many families taking one last vacation or enjoying outdoor activities like barbecues and picnics. In addition, it is often associated with back-to-school preparation in certain parts of some states while others will begin playing football which coincides gets along the time of year that signifies return to school season for most families across America.
Various town hold holiday parades/ festivals where workers’ rights are celebrated as well as their achievements, thus reminding Americans about progress made so far concerning work conditions and labor laws.
Columbus Day – Monday, October 14
Celebrated on the second Monday in October, Columbus Day serves as a remembrance of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on 12th October, 1492.
In 2024, Columbus Day falls on October 14. The holiday has traditionally celebrated Columbus’s achievements and his role in opening the Americas to European exploration.
However, recently Columbus Day has come under controversy over the harmful effects of European colonization for Indigenous people. Therefore, some states and cities have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day which recognizes Native American history and cultures.
Yet despite this backlash against it Columbus Day remains a federal holiday celebrated with parades and other activities in some places. a time to think about how complicated European colonization was and how it still affects America today.
Veterans Day – Monday, November 11
On November 11th every year, Veterans Day honors every military veteran who served in United States Armed Forces.
Veterans Day falls on a Monday in the year 2024. The holiday was originally created to remember World War I’s armistice day known as Armistice Day; it marked the end of that war by marking an agreement between warring parties on November 11th 1918.
Veterans are honored every year by the Americans on the Veterans Day to show their gratitude towards them. Honors are given to war veterans, removal of the gallows and many more programs, in honor of veterans who have defended the country’s freedom and safety.
This day is not like Memorial Day that only celebrates those who died while serving in military forces; it also includes all those that once served, both living and dead. It provides an opportunity to remember the sacrifices made by people who defended America and express patriotism.
Every November’s last Thursday is Thanksgiving Day.
As an American tradition, Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November when families get together to say thank you for whatever good things happened during the previous year.
In 2024, Thanksgiving falls on November 28. This holiday started during colonial times when the Pilgrims celebrated with Native Americans bountiful harvests at Plymouth Massachusetts.
Today, Thanksgiving is characterized by large family gatherings, elaborate meals featuring turkey and other traditional dishes, and expressions of gratitude.It’s also seen as a launching pad into subsequent holidays leading till X-mas or New Year.
The main attraction of this annual event includes gigantic inflatables, floats, and performers that lure millions of spectators; this is known as Macy’s Thanksgiving parade which takes place in New York City. Many organizations offer meals to help needy individuals during Thanksgiving time.
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