The United States has
10 federal holidays. On these days, all federal offices are closed as well as
post offices. Most state offices also shut in observance of federal holidays,
and because the U.S. Federal Reserve is closed, the majority of banks also
suspend their operations.
The following list will give you a brief background of the federal
holidays:
New Year's Day - For this celebration of the new year, most
businesses and nearly all schools close. The holiday is traditionally
celebrated on January 1st, but if the date falls on a weekend it is usually
observed the first Monday of the new year.
Martin Luther King Day - A vacation day for most schools, Martin
Luther King Day celebrates the life of civil rights activist Martin Luther
King. The day is observed on the third Monday of January. Most private
businesses remain open on this day.
President's Day - Observed on the third Monday of February,
President's Day celebrates the birthdays of two of America's greatest
presidents - George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Most schools are closed on
this date, but the majority of private businesses are open.
Memorial Day - Held on the final Monday of May, Memorial Day honours U.S. service members
who were killed in the line of duty. Most businesses and schools close in
observance of the day.
Independence Day - This date celebrates America's birth and is
held on the 4th of July. Most businesses are closed for Independence Day, and schools
are typically on summer break during this time.
Labor Day - A celebration of the nation's working class, Labor Day is held on the
first Monday of September. Many businesses close for the holiday, while schools are generally closed.
Columbus Day - Although a federal holiday, Columbus Day is not widely observed by
businesses. The holiday celebrates the discovery of America and occurs on the
second Monday of October. Only some schools close for the holiday.
Veterans Day - On November 11th, Americans honour the service of those men and women
who were in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force or Coast Guard. Schools and
private businesses usually remain open.
Thanksgiving - A holiday observed by nearly every business and all schools,
Thanksgiving remembers the feast that the Pilgrims who founded the original 13
colonies shared with the Native Americans during their first year in the
country. Americans celebrate by eating a large meal, typically with turkey and
pumpkin pie, and giving thanks for the good things in their lives.
Christmas - In the U.S., Christmas is a federal holiday celebrated on December 25th.
As with New Years, if the date falls on the weekend, federal offices typically
remain closed on the Monday after the holiday. Most businesses and all schools
are closed for Christmas.
Chess Moving can
provide you with additional information about the culture and traditions of the
U.S. to help you prepare for your move. Contact us for more information.