National Holidays

"Holidays" Key Vocabulary

Holiday, holiday
Didn't have to go to school today
A special American day
But what's the celebration?

In 1882, 10,000 people had a parade in New York City to honor the nation's working people. Without their efforts, our country wouldn't be as strong and prosperous. It happens at the end of summer on the first Monday in September.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
LABOR DAY

On the second Monday in October, we honor an explorer who knew the world was not flat. He traveled the seas to find a quicker route to India and Asia. He is given credit as the first European to have discovered the New World of the Americas.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
COLUMBUS DAY

In 1918, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month, a peace treaty was signed to end World War I. This day was originally called Armistice Day and honors the brave Americans who have fought in all wars.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
VETERAN'S DAY

Native Americans helped the Pilgrims survive the rough winter months by teaching them how to plant corn and other crops. Americans give thanks to this tradition of sharing with a feast on the fourth Thursday in November.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
THANKSGIVING DAY

Holiday, holiday
Didn't have to go to school today
A special American day
But what's the celebration?

He helped win civil rights for his people without using violence. He said, "I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." It's the third Monday in January.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

There used to be two holidays in February for the birthdays of two great Americans. But in 1971, President Nixon proclaimed one holiday to honor George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and all of the others just like them.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
PRESIDENT'S DAY

This holiday originally honored those who died in the American Civil War. Today it honors the memories of all loved ones that have died. We place flowers on their graves and wave the flag on the last Monday in May.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
MEMORIAL DAY

You won't be in school for this holiday, unless you're in summer school. It's the birthday of the United States and the day that the Declaration of Independence was signed. Be cautious of fireworks, please.
What do we celebrate? Every year on this date?
INDEPENDENCE DAY

Holiday, holiday
We didn't have to go to school (hooray!)
My cousins came over and we all played
Stuffing our faces with food all day
Watched cartoons on TV all day
I wish every day was a holiday...