The next public holiday in the country is near. In the United States there are 11 holidays recognized by the federal government, from New Year’s Day to Christmas, with Juneteenth Day being the most recent after being established as a holiday in 2021.
Five holidays have already been celebrated in 2024: New Year’s Day on January 1, Martin Luther King Day, George Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, and Juneteenth Day, But what’s next? We’ll explain.
Independence Day, the next federal holiday in the USA
The next holiday is Independence Day, celebrated every year on July 4.
Independence Day was ratified on June 28, 1870, when Congress declared July 4 as a federal holiday. Although it is established on July 4, when the date falls on a Saturday, the labor holiday is celebrated on Friday, and if it falls on a Sunday, it is moved to the following Monday.
The origin of this celebration dates back to 1776 when representatives of the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain, the document recognizing the United States as an independent nation.
How is Independence Day celebrated?
The 4th of July is celebrated with activities such as fireworks, ceremonies, speeches, parades and concerts, among others. Additionally, Americans have family gatherings and barbecues. On the other hand, stores take the opportunity to offer great discounts.
It may interest you: American flag: why does it have 13 stripes and 50 stars and what is its origin and meaning?
Is there work during this holiday?
By law, during these holidays, federal offices close, Government employees therefore have the day off and are paid. However, other establishments, such as schools, businesses, banks and supermarkets, decide whether to close or not.
Generally, During Independence Day, banks, post offices, stock exchanges and schools close, but pharmacies and restaurants remain open. In the case of supermarkets, some are open, while others, like Costco, are closing.
Complete calendar of federal holidays in the USA 2024
Of the 11 official federal holidays, there are some that are celebrated on specific dates, while others change dates each year. Besides, Holidays may be observed a day earlier or later if they fall on a weekend.
If a holiday falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday will be treated as a holiday for pay and leave purposes. On the other hand, if a holiday falls on a Sunday, it will be observed on the following Monday. Here is the list of holidays this year:
- New Year’s Day – January 1st
- Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday (Third Monday in January) – January 15, 2024
- Washington’s Birthday or Presidents’ Day (third Monday in February) – February 19
- Memorial Day (last Monday in May) – May 27
- Juneteenth Day – June 19
- Independence Day – July 4th
- Labor Day (first Monday in September) – September 2
- Columbus Day (Second Monday in October) – October 14
- Veterans Day – November 11
- Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November): November 28
- Christmas Day – December 25th
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