Day Federal Observances Month People U.S February American

Most Americans celebrate a "standard" (not changing) set of holidays, such as New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. But there are many unusual or "lesser-known" (not known by many people) "federal observances," or special days that have been declared by Congress or the U.S. President as days to remember or honor someone or something. "Federal employees" (people who work for the U.S. government) don't receive a "day off of work" (a day when they do not have to work) for observances, and many people are unaware that the federal observances exist, but it's interesting to consider the "range" (variety) of events and ideas they "cover" (are about).

Some of the federal observances are "patriotic" (showing love and respect for one's country). These include Constitution Day and Citizenship Day on September 17, Flag Day on June 14, National Freedom Day on February 1, and Patriot Day on September 11. "Collectively" (taken or considered together), the 21 days between Flag Day (June 14) and Independence Day (July 4) are known as "Honor America Days."

Other federal observances are "declared" (stated and made) for weeks or months rather than individual days. Many months are designated for honoring "cultural heritage" (the traditions of the places where one's ancestors came from: February is Black History Month, October is Filipino American History Month, and November is Native American Heritage Month. Other months "draw attention to" (help people focus on) health-related issues: February is American Heart Month, April is Cancer Control Month, and October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.