Observances & Traditions
From religious and patriotic holidays to celebrations of ethnic pride, explore the history of Easter, New Year's Day, Veterans Day and more annual observances, plus traditions and rituals that take place all year long.
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Native American Heritage Month is celebrated each November to honor the history and culture of American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Daylight savings time, when clocks "spring forward or fall back," has been controversial since it was first proposed in 1895.
The November holiday is dedicated to all U.S. veterans. Formerly called Armistance Day, Veterans Day began after World War I.
The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year. In 2026, in the Northern Hemisphere, it takes place on December 21.
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year in San Francisco
New Year's celebrations in China are thousands of years old, but across the Pacific, the holiday took on a life of its own.
3 Holidays Honoring U.S. Military Personnel
Armed Forces Day
Celebrated annually on the third Saturday in May, Armed Forces Day thanks those currently serving in the military for their service. It was created in 1949 by then-Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force Days.
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Tens of millions of Americans have served in the armed forces since the country’s founding. Read quotes by and about U.S. servicemembers.
Both holidays honor U.S. military personnel, but they arose for different reasons.
Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Learn about the holiday and the population of American veterans today.
The November holiday is dedicated to all U.S. veterans. Formerly called Armistance Day, Veterans Day began after World War I.
Five American veterans share stories of courage, camaraderie and sacrifice across generations of military service.
The holiday takes a similar form for Hindus and others around the world.
The British holiday, celebrated with fireworks and bonfires, commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
From the start, the 39-time Grand Slam winner showed that she wasn’t just an ace on the tennis courts, but also in the long fight for gender equity.
Samhain is an ancient Celtic festival celebrated from October 31 to November 1. It marks the end of the harvest and the oncoming winter.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates the culture, history and contributions of Native Americans. The holiday is usually celebrated on Oct. 12.
Many rituals that mourn fallen U.S. soldiers originated in European battlefield customs.
Holi, often called the “festival of colors,” is a vibrant and joyful Hindu celebration that marks spring’s arrival.
The White House Easter Egg Roll is an annual Easter tradition dating back to 1878 and the presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes.
Eid al-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is one of Islam’s most important holidays, honoring the Prophet Ibrahim's sacrificial offering.
January’s rich history includes a brilliant meteor shower, a candy-colored ice festival and the celebrations of Epiphany and Twelfth Night.
