Every country has its traditions, which should always be taken into account when making business deals. A regular day in one country can be a national holiday in another. In the US, ten days of the year are considered federal holidays, meaning all non-essential government offices and banks, as well as the stock market, are closed. It does not always mean that all businesses are closed. Whether or not a holiday is a day off work varies from state to state and often depends solely on the employer. Check the US holidays of .
US Holidays
Most US holidays are observed on a different day each year. That is because they are celebrated on, for example, the third Monday of the month instead of one set date. It is also worth keeping in mind that holidays often cause delays and traveling or shipping products in the US around that time might not be the best idea. Here is a list of all ten of the most important US holidays along with their observed dates, together with how likely they are to be considered days off.
US Holidays : the first half
New Year’s Day
January 1st
Same as in other countries using the Gregorian calendar, January 1st is considered the first day of the new year. Cities often organize parades and concerts to celebrate, and families and friends meet up for private dinners or parties. The year is started with fireworks and wishes for the upcoming year.
January 1st is almost always a day off work, and the majority of companies are closed, so it is not advised to try to contact business partners that day.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 18th
Celebrated on the third Monday of January of each year, this holiday honors Martin Luther King Jr., the chief spokesperson, and leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Even though it is a relatively young holiday, it already has distinct traditions. Americans are encouraged to spend the day volunteering for a good cause, and numerous organizations launch service activities for the day. Many workplaces give their employees leave, although it is not mandatory.
President’s Day
February 15th
Also called Washington’s Birthday, this holiday is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It used to honor George Washington only, later adding Abraham Lincoln and other presidents. A cherry pie is a traditional food eaten on the day. It refers to the old myth of the six-year-old Washington cutting down his father’s cherry tree and immediately admitting it when accused, alluding to the honesty he always prided himself on as president.
All banks, federal offices, and public schools are closed, but private companies can decide whether to grant their workers a day off.
US Holidays
Most US holidays are observed on a different day each year. That is because they are celebrated on, for example, the third Monday of the month instead of one set date. It is also worth keeping in mind that holidays often cause delays and traveling or shipping products in the US around that time might not be the best idea. Here is a list of all ten of the most important US holidays along with their observed dates, together with how likely they are to be considered days off.
US Holidays : the first half
New Year’s Day
January 1st
Same as in other countries using the Gregorian calendar, January 1st is considered the first day of the new year. Cities often organize parades and concerts to celebrate, and families and friends meet up for private dinners or parties. The year is started with fireworks and wishes for the upcoming year.
January 1st is almost always a day off work, and the majority of companies are closed, so it is not advised to try to contact business partners that day.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 18th
Celebrated on the third Monday of January of each year, this holiday honors Martin Luther King Jr., the chief spokesperson, and leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Even though it is a relatively young holiday, it already has distinct traditions. Americans are encouraged to spend the day volunteering for a good cause, and numerous organizations launch service activities for the day. Many workplaces give their employees leave, although it is not mandatory.
President’s Day
February 15th
Also called Washington’s Birthday, this holiday is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It used to honor George Washington only, later adding Abraham Lincoln and other presidents. A cherry pie is a traditional food eaten on the day. It refers to the old myth of the six-year-old Washington cutting down his father’s cherry tree and immediately admitting it when accused, alluding to the honesty he always prided himself on as president.
All banks, federal offices, and public schools are closed, but private companies can decide whether to grant their workers a day off.
