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Holidays and Observances

This guide provides information about diverse cultural celebrations and religious holidays. It includes calendars and brief descriptions of the events. This resource can assist in event planning and classroom activities.

National observances – Greece

Polytechneio (November 17) – Commemoration of the 1973 student demonstrations. Classes do not meet.

Pan-African holidays and observances

Day Event
December 26 Kwanzaa begins
January 1 Kwanzaa ends

U.S. federal holidays

The United States recognizes 12 federal holidays, with government office closings and sometimes business closings.

Holiday (official name) Date
New Year's Day January 1
Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Third Monday in January
Washington's Birthday (Presidents' Day) Third Monday in February
Memorial Day Last Monday in May
Juneteenth National Independence Day June 19
Independence Day July 4
Labor Day First Monday in September
Columbus Day Second Monday in October
Veterans Day November 11
Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November
Christmas Day December 25

U.S. interfaith holidays and observances

Day Event
May 2 National Day of Prayer