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The Fourth of July, known as Independence Day,
is the nation's birthday. Many Americans fly the national flag, the
Stars and Stripes, from their homes and businesses. Communities sponsor
parades and picnics during the day and at night there are concerts and
fireworks displays. Thanksgiving, held on the fourth Thursday of November, is a time to spend with family. The holiday commemorates a feast the Pilgrims shared with the local Wampanoag people in the 17th century. The feast was held in celebration of the bountiful harvest that saved the Pilgrims from starvation. Traditionally, Americans enjoy a dinner of roast turkey, cranberry sauce, potatoes and pumpkin pie. Some say grace before the meal to give thanks for all their blessings. |
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Christmas is a very important holiday in the United
States, not just for Christians. People decorate their houses with coloured
lights, hang ornaments on a Christmas tree and exchange gifts and cards.
Easter Sunday is the Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus
Christ. Most Christians go to church on this day. Children decorate eggs
and adults give them chocolates shaped like eggs, chickens or rabbits. National holidays include Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which honours the civil rights activist who struggled to win civil rights for African-Americans through non-violence. Presidents' Day combines the celebrations of George Washington's and Abraham Lincoln's birthdays. Today, Presidents' Day acknowledges all the American presidents. |
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Memorial Day honours the war dead of the United States.
It was first held after the Civil War. Special ceremonies are held in cemeteries,
churches and at war memorials. Labor Day recognizes working people. Some cities
and unions sponsor Labor Day parades. Veterans' Day was originally called
Armistice Day. It began as a day to honour Americans who fought in the First
World War. Today it honours all veterans.
Some regions hold special festivals. Mardi Gras is an
important celebration in New Orleans, where people hold large parties and
parades. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated in New York City, Boston and
Savannah.
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