Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January) honors the legacy of the civil rights leader who fought for racial equality through nonviolent activism. Schools and communities host educational programs, parades, and volunteer initiatives. It is a federal holiday - federal offices, banks, and many schools are closed.

Washington's Birthday, commonly known as Presidents’ Day (third Monday in February), originally celebrated George Washington’s birthday but now honors all U.S. presidents. Patriotic events, historical reenactments, and retail sales are common. It is a federal holiday - government offices and banks are closed, though many private businesses remain open.

Memorial Day (last Monday in May) honors U.S. military personnel who died in service. Families decorate graves, attend parades, and gather for barbecues and outdoor events that mark the unofficial start of summer. Federal offices and banks are closed; most retailers stay open.

Labor Day (first Monday in September) celebrates the contributions of American workers and labor movements. It is a time for family picnics, last summer vacations, and the start of football season. It is a federal holiday - schools, banks, and offices close, while many retailers hold big sales.

Columbus Day (second Monday in October) commemorates Christopher Columbus’s 1492 arrival in the Americas. In many states, it is observed instead as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, recognizing Native American history and cultures. Federal offices and banks are closed, though most private businesses remain open.

Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November) celebrates gratitude, harvest traditions, and family unity. Americans gather for a turkey feast with stuffing, pies, and cranberry sauce, watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, and enjoy football games. It is a federal holiday - banks, schools, and most businesses close, though many retailers prepare for Black Friday sales the following day.