So, which holidays are America’s most patriotic days of the year? From Independence Day to Memorial Day, let’s go over the most well-known days celebrating America’s milestones, honorary dedications, and citizen appreciation.
Independence Day
Independence Day is one of the most important days in the history of the United States. The Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, marking America’s political independence from Great Britain. The five great signers of the document included John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Robert Livingston, and Roger Sherman.
Columbus Day
Columbus Day commemorates when Italian navigator Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas. It’s a federal holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. It was unofficially celebrated in many cities in the eighteenth century, then became a national holiday in 1937 to appreciate Italian-American heritage.
Veterans Day
Every year on November 11, Americans pay tribute to military veterans and their sacrifices to make the country safe. It’s considered a federal and state holiday throughout America, and President Dwight Eisenhower signed it into law in 1954. Veterans Day replaced the previous holiday, “Armistice Day,” which previously marked the end of World War I. Citizens will fly POW/MIA and military branch flags on this day to support veterans.
Memorial Day
Another patriotic day of the year is Memorial Day. On May 30, it’s a reminder to Americans of their fallen fellow citizens during wartime. The holiday helps preserve the memory of lost loved ones who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting their country. It’s customary for the U.S. flag to get lowered to half-staff during the morning hour, then raised to full-staff at noon.
Patriot Day
Patriot Day focuses on those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, during the World Trade Center attacks. Approved on December 18, 2001, Congress authorized the president to dedicate September 11 as “Patriot Day” to focus on the memory of those who perished in the attack and to pursue peace and justice worldwide. The day begins with a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. EDT, for remembrance services and candlelight vigils, along with American flags being flown at half-staff.
The United States of America has many days of the year to celebrate its people, veterans, active military personnel, and important moments in history that made it what it is today. Every country deserves to celebrate its victories and accomplishments, so take these days to enjoy what your country has done for you.
