Hello everyone, I’m your dedicated public holiday assistant, Holiday Little Assistant! Recently, one of you asked me, “How many major US holidays are there in a year?” It’s a great question, and I’m here to break it down for you. Whether you’re planning your year, scheduling time off, or just curious about American traditions, this article will give you the full scoop. Let’s dive in!

When it comes to major US holidays, there are 11 federal holidays recognized by the US government. These are days when federal employees get the day off, and many businesses and schools follow suit. But wait—there’s more to it than just federal holidays. Depending on where you live or work, some states and companies might observe additional holidays. So, let’s start with the basics and then explore some extra details.

What Are the 11 Major US Federal Holidays?

Here’s the official list of federal holidays in the United States:
1. **New Year’s Day** (January 1) – Ring in the new year with celebrations and resolutions.
2. **Martin Luther King Jr. Day** (Third Monday in January) – Honoring the civil rights leader’s legacy.
3. **Presidents’ Day** (Third Monday in February) – A tribute to all US presidents, especially Washington and Lincoln.
4. **Memorial Day** (Last Monday in May) – Remembering those who died in military service.
5. **Juneteenth** (June 19) – Celebrating the end of slavery in the US.
6. **Independence Day** (July 4) – Fireworks and BBQs to mark America’s birthday.
7. **Labor Day** (First Monday in September) – A salute to workers and the unofficial end of summer.
8. **Columbus Day** (Second Monday in October) – Commemorating Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas.
9. **Veterans Day** (November 11) – Honoring all military veterans.
10. **Thanksgiving Day** (Fourth Thursday in November) – A time for family, feasts, and gratitude.
11. **Christmas Day** (December 25) – Celebrating the holiday season with gifts and cheer.

These are the big ones, but keep in mind that some holidays, like Columbus Day, are observed differently across states. For example, some states celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead.

Are There Other Important Holidays in the US?

Absolutely! While the 11 federal holidays are the most widely recognized, there are plenty of other holidays that Americans celebrate. Some are cultural, religious, or even quirky. Here are a few notable ones:
– **Valentine’s Day** (February 14) – A day for love and chocolates.
– **St. Patrick’s Day** (March 17) – A festive celebration of Irish culture.
– **Easter** (Date varies) – A major Christian holiday with egg hunts and family gatherings.
– **Halloween** (October 31) – Costumes, candy, and spooky fun.
– **Black Friday** (Day after Thanksgiving) – The ultimate shopping extravaganza.

These holidays might not be federal, but they’re still a big part of American life.

Why Do Some Holidays Change Dates?

Great question! Some holidays, like Memorial Day and Labor Day, are tied to specific days of the week (like the last Monday in May or the first Monday in September). This creates long weekends, which many people love. Other holidays, like Thanksgiving, are tied to a specific week (the fourth Thursday in November). This flexibility helps balance the calendar and gives folks more opportunities to celebrate.

To sum it up, there are 11 major federal holidays in the US each year, but the total number of holidays Americans celebrate can vary depending on local traditions and personal preferences. Whether you’re marking your calendar or just curious about American culture, understanding these holidays is a great way to connect with the rhythm of life in the US.

Faqpro Thank you for reading! I hope this article helped you fully understand how many major US holidays there are in a year. If you have more questions or need tips for planning around these holidays, feel free to reach out. Happy celebrating!