Holidays: History of Federal Holidays

Topics

Featured

Veterans Day 2024

Veterans Day is a U.S. public holiday honoring military veterans that is observed annually on or around November 11.

Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “sow‑win”) is a pagan religious festival originating from an ancient Celtic spiritual tradition. It is usually celebrated from October 31 to November 1 to welcome in the harvest and usher in “the dark half of the year.”

Columbus Day 2024

Christopher Columbus Christopher Columbus was an Italian‑born explorer who set sail in August 1492, bound for Asia with backing from the Spanish monarchs King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella aboard the ships the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria. Columbus intended to chart a western sea route to China, India and the fabled gold and […]

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa History The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili. Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal. On each of the seven nights, the family gathers and a […]

Videos

See All

2:53 minTV-PG

Play

Featured

Ramadan

Ramadan is the most holy Islamic holiday.

Veterans Day

Father Emil Kapaun gave his life during the Korean War, but his selfless faith saved and inspired his fellow soldiers. President Obama recognized the Army chaplain with the Medal of Honor in 2013.

Watch now