Pre-Departure Orientation Manual - US Agency for International ...

INDEPENDENCE DAY – JULY 4
06/14/2012 New Edition
On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence, a document the United States used to declare its
independence from England, was signed. Americans celebrate this holiday with picnics and fireworks.
LABOR DAY – FIRST MONDAY IN SEPTEMBER
This holiday recognizes the efforts of American workers.
COLUMBUS DAY – SECOND MONDAY IN OCTOBER
Celebrated since 1792 in New York City, honors Christopher Columbus, who landed on Haiti (which at
the time was part of the Arawak Islands and belonged to the Taino people) on October 12, 1492.
VETERANS DAY – NOVEMBER 11
Also known as Armistice Day, and (although rarely in the U.S.) occasionally called "Remembrance Day,"
'Veterans Day' is the American name for the international holiday which commemorates the signing of
the Armistice ending World War I. In the United States, the holiday honors all veterans of the United
States Armed Forces, whether or not they have served in a conflict.
THANKSGIVING DAY – LAST THURSDAY IN NOVEMBER
According to legend, the first European settlers of the United States gave thanks for their first harvest
season by eating a feast with Native Americans. This is a traditional time for families and friends to eat a
large dinner together.
CHRISTMAS DAY – DECEMBER 25
This holiday, at one time a traditionally Christian one, is now a time for most people to exchange gifts,
decorate homes, and attend gatherings and parties for the few weeks preceding December 25.
33