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Federal Holidays in the U.S.

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.

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