COMMON QUESTIONS
Uniquely American Questions
This section discusses holidays in the United States as they apply to international visitors.
U.S. HOLIDAYS
January 1"New Year's Day. Starting with the night before (New
Year's Eve on December 31st), this is a celebration to welcome the new
year.
January (3rd Monday of the month)"Martin Luther King Day. This
is a holiday commemorating the birthday of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.
(1929-1968), an African-American civil rights leader who was awarded the
1964 Nobel Peace Prize.
February (3rd Monday of the month)"President's Day. This day honors
past U.S. presidents, commemorating the February birthdays of George Washington
(the first president and Commander of the Armies that won U.S. independence)
and Abraham Lincoln (the 16th U.S. president who held office during the
U.S. Civil War and was known for abolishing slavery).
February 22 (often observed on the nearest Monday)"Washington's Birthday.
Honors the birthday of the first U.S. president, George Washington.
May (last Monday of the month)"Memorial Day. A holiday in remembrance
of members of the armed forces killed in war.
July 4"Independence Day. On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence
was signed as thirteen colonies declared their independence from England
and became the first thirteen states of the United States. Fireworks displays
mark this holiday.
September (1st Monday of the month)"Labor Day. This is a holiday
honoring the contributions and efforts of laborers.
October (2nd Monday of the month)"Columbus Day. A holiday honoring
the landing of Christopher Columbus, traditionally considered to be the
discoverer of America, in the West Indies (in the year 1492).
November 11"Veterans Day. A holiday in commemoration of the end
of World War I and in honor of veterans of the armed forces (the people
who served).
November (last Thursday of the month)"Thanksgiving Day. This is
a day of feasting and giving thanks. This feast was initiated by the Pilgrims
(the first settlers in the thirteen colonies of the U.S.) and Native Americans
who already lived on the land.
December 25"Christmas Day. The annual holiday of the Christian
church commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. As Christianity is widely
celebrated in the United States, this is a national holiday. Many people
exchange gifts with family and friends at this time of year. Some celebrate
the night before (Christmas Eve).
Some other Celebrations that are not Holidays:
February 14"Valentine's Day. This has become a day to celebrate
love and romance. ๑Valentines๎ or tokens of love (cards, candy, gifts)
are exchanged.
March 17"St. Patrick's Day. Parades and parties mark this day
honoring the patron saint of Ireland.
April 1"April Fools' Day. Jokes or tricks are traditionally played
on the unsuspecting.
May (the 2nd Sunday)"Mother's Day. As the title suggests, many
people choose to honor their mothers on this day with cards, gifts, etc.
June (the 3rd Sunday)"Father's Day. On this day, many people choose
to honor their fathers with cards, gifts, etc.
October 31"Halloween. The eve of All Saint's Day, where many dress
in costume (often scary ones!) for parties and candy is given to children.
|
