American holidays

Many government offices and some private businesses close on annual federal holidays. If the holiday falls during the weekend, the government may observe it on a different day.

Find out the history and how holidays are celebrated in the U.S.

Learn the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day

On Memorial Day, America honors those who died while serving in the military. On Veterans Day, the country celebrates everyone who has served in the military.

States and the District of Columbia may recognize their own holidays, such as Emancipation Day or Indigenous Peoples Day. These holidays recognize events and people important to a state’s history and culture.

Some holidays honor specific groups and events, such as Flag Day and Halloween. These are not federal holidays. Some holidays and observances receive presidential proclamations.

Various ethnic and religious groups in the United States celebrate days with special meaning to them. These holidays include Easter and Christmas for Christians, the High Holy Days for Jews, Ramadan for Muslims, Day of Vesak for Buddhists, and Diwali for Hindus.