There are many reasons to celebrate in the United States. The following is a list of holidays and traditions that are observed by Americans every year.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Observed on the
third Monday in January, this day honors the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King
Jr., who led the fight for racial equality in the United States in the late
1950s and early 1960s.
Groundhog Day
This is an American
tradition observed on February 2. On this day, legend has it that a groundhog
named Punxsutawney Phil comes out of his hole after a winter of hibernation to
look for his shadow. If it is a sunny day and he sees his shadow, he is scared
back into hibernation for another six weeks of winter. But if it is a cloudy
day and he does not see his shadow, he stays above ground and spring is on its
way.
Valentine's Day
On February 14,
sentimental Americans shower their loved ones with cards and gifts to symbolize
their love. The most popular gifts are flowers and candy.
St. Patrick's Day
This lively
Irish American holiday, named after St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland,
is celebrated on March 17. Many Americans celebrate by wearing green and
drinking green beer, and cities such as Chicago, Illinois, and Boston,
Massachusetts, hold parades that attract people by the thousands.
Memorial Day
This holiday,
observed on the fourth Monday in May, honors all the fallen American soldiers
throughout history.
Independence Day
Also known as
the “Fourth of July,” this day is recognized as the birthday of the United
States. It was on July 4, 1776, that the Declaration of Independence was
adopted by Congress, declaring the
United States a free and independent nation. Americans celebrate with picnics
and elaborate fireworks displays.
Labor Day
This holiday,
observed on the first Monday in September, honors America's workforce. The
holiday also signifies the end of summer and the beginning of the school year.
Halloween
On October 31, many American
children dress up in funny or spooky costumes and go “trick or treating” –
knocking on doors around the neighborhood asking for candy.
Veterans Day
This holiday is
observed on November 11, the day World War I ended in 1918. Originally honoring
American soldiers who served in WWI, it now honors veterans of all wars in
which the United States has fought.
Thanksgiving Day, which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, dates back to 1620, when a group of English settlers landed in Massachusetts. After barely surviving a harsh winter in their new land, the settlers asked for the help of the neighboring Indians, who taught them to plant and harvest crops. The next fall brought a bountiful harvest, and the settlers and Indians celebrated together with an elaborate feast. The tradition is still observed today, as Americans gather to give thanks and to feast on foods such as turkey, cranberry sauce, potatoes, corn, and pumpkin pie.
