Every country has its own holidays. Although the term "holiday" literally means "holy day," most holidays in the United States are not related to religion; their essence and origin are commemorative. The rich cultural heritage of the United States has given different cultural roots and traditions to some holidays, but all holidays have formed a unique American character. In the United States, "holidays" mean "celebration!"
Strictly speaking, there are no national holidays in the United States. The regulations regarding holidays vary among the 50 states. However, in practice, most states observe federal ("statutory") public holidays, although the President and Congress can designate holidays for federal government employees by law.
The federal government has declared ten holidays throughout the year, namely:
Christmas: December 25
Thanksgiving: The fourth Thursday in November
Veterans Day: November 11
Columbus Day: The second Monday in October
Labor Day: The first Monday in September
Independence Day: July 4
Memorial Day: The last Monday in May
Washington's Birthday: The third Monday in February
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: The third Monday in January
New Year's Day: January 1
In 1971, then-President Richard Nixon officially moved many federal holidays to the nearest Monday.
Four holidays do not necessarily fall on a Monday: Thanksgiving, New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Christmas.
If New Year's Day, Independence Day, or Christmas falls on a Sunday, the following day is still a holiday; if it falls on a Saturday, the preceding day is also a holiday.
On federal holidays, federal government agencies typically do not operate, including post offices.
Schools and businesses may close on major holidays, such as Independence Day and Christmas, but this may not be the case for Washington's Birthday or Veterans Day.