Hello everyone, I’m your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant. Recently, a little friend reached out to me asking, “How many major US holidays are there?” It’s a great question, and today I’m here to break it all down for you. Whether you’re planning your year, organizing events, or just curious, this guide will help you understand the key holidays celebrated across the United States. Let’s dive in!

The United States has a total of 11 federal holidays recognized by the federal government. These are days when non-essential federal offices are closed, and many businesses and schools also take the day off. Federal holidays are established by Congress and apply to all states, but individual states can also recognize additional holidays specific to their history or culture.

What Are the 11 Major US Federal Holidays?

Here’s the full list of federal holidays in the US:
1. **New Year’s Day** (January 1) – Celebrated to mark the beginning of the new year.
2. **Martin Luther King Jr. Day** (Third Monday in January) – Honors the civil rights leader’s legacy.
3. **Presidents’ Day** (Third Monday in February) – Celebrates all US presidents, especially Washington and Lincoln.
4. **Memorial Day** (Last Monday in May) – Honors military personnel who died in service.
5. **Juneteenth National Independence Day** (June 19) – Commemorates the end of slavery in the US.
6. **Independence Day** (July 4) – Celebrates America’s independence from Britain.
7. **Labor Day** (First Monday in September) – Recognizes the contributions of workers.
8. **Columbus Day** (Second Monday in October) – Honors Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas.
9. **Veterans Day** (November 11) – Pays tribute to all military veterans.
10. **Thanksgiving Day** (Fourth Thursday in November) – A day for gratitude and feasting.
11. **Christmas Day** (December 25) – Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

These holidays are observed nationwide, but some, like Columbus Day, are celebrated differently depending on the state or community. For example, some states recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day.

Do All States Observe the Same Holidays?

While federal holidays are recognized across the country, states can add their own holidays to the calendar. For instance, states like Texas and Massachusetts have additional holidays like Texas Independence Day or Patriots’ Day. Local governments and private businesses may also observe holidays that aren’t federally recognized, such as শুভ শুক্রবার or Election Day. So, the total number of holidays can vary depending on where you live.

Why Are Federal Holidays Important?

Federal holidays are more than just days off—they’re a way to honor the nation’s history, culture, and values. From celebrating independence to remembering those who sacrificed for the country, these holidays bring people together and provide opportunities for reflection and celebration. Plus, they’re a great excuse to spend time with family and friends!

To summarize, there are 11 major federal holidays in the US, but the total number of holidays can vary by state. Whether you’re planning a vacation, organizing an event, or just curious about American culture, knowing these holidays is essential.

Faqpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article has helped you fully understand how many major US holidays there are. If you have more questions about holidays or need help planning around them, feel free to reach out to us. Happy celebrating!