Holidays and traditions vary across the globe, from hemisphere differences to religious, cultural and historical observances.
In this article, we look at American holidays and traditions that may impact international students studying in the U.S.
The American holidays cycle
The American holiday system is slightly different from the rest of the world. Most people in the U.S. reserve the term “holidays” for the Christmas period, using terms such as “break” or “vacation” to describe the other days and observances when schools and businesses are closed.
Many states observe their own special dates, traditions and observances. California, for example, marks César Chávez Day on March 31; Floridians celebrate the state’s 1512 discovery every April 2; and Texas observes its very own April 21 independence day. However, all recognize the U.S. federal holidays. So holidays and observances may vary depending on which state you’re studying in.
Not all holidays fall on the same date every year. For example, Independence Day is celebrated annually on July Fourth, the day the U.S. signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. But Thanksgiving – another important U.S. federal holiday – is observed on the fourth Thursday of November.
Federal holidays
There are 11 recognized federal holidays in the U.S. and a 12th every four years following a presidential election. These cover traditional holidays celebrated across much of the globe, including New Year’s Day and Christmas, as well as unique American observances, such as Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Here’s a list of federal holidays, along with their dates and a brief description of each.
- New Year’s Day – January 1: The first day of the year, celebrated around the world.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – The third Monday of January: Celebrates the birthday of the iconic civil rights leader.
- Inauguration Day – Once every four years on January 20: Follows the November presidential election to swear in the president of the United States.
- Washington’s Birthday – Each third Monday of February: Marks the birthday of the first U.S. president, George Washington.
- Memorial Day – The last Monday every May: Commemorates the members of America’s armed forces who have lost their lives in service to their country.
- Juneteenth National Independence Day – June 19: A relatively new federal holiday (since 2021) to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.
- Independence Day – July 4: Observes the ratification of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, officially establishing the United States of America. An important date in American culture.
- Labor Day – The first Monday in September: Recognizes the U.S. labor movement and celebrates the achievements and contributions of workers in the United States.
- Columbus Day – The second Monday in October: Marks the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. Some groups do not recognize this holiday or instead observe the day as Indigenous People’s Day.
- Veterans Day – November 11: Honors the military veterans of the United States Armed Forces (also observed in most Western countries as Armistice or Remembrance Day).
- Thanksgiving Day – The fourth Thursday in November: A U.S. holiday where families and friends come together – usually over a large, home-cooked meal – to give thanks for the good things in life.
- Christmas Day – December 25: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely celebrated.
Many people don’t have to work on national holidays, and schools are often closed if the holiday falls during the academic term.
Unofficial American holidays and observances
In some states and cities, Americans observe non federal holidays or traditional, religious and even political dates. These can vary significantly from state to state. The government doesn’t officially recognize these as days where businesses and schools are closed.
Religious observances
The U.S. values the right to celebrate religious observances without fear or prejudice. It’s not uncommon to see many different religious and cultural activities across the nation.
- Eid al-Fitr – Marks the end of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan. Eid, as this day is often called, generally falls on a different date each year.
- Diwali – Usually falls between October and November and lasts for five days. This Hindu festival of lights is a popular observance among Indian Americans.
- Yom Kippur – The Jewish holiday often occurs during September and October and is seen as Judaism’s most important holiday.
- Easter – The Christian holy days of Good Friday and Easter Sunday mark the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
American cultural observances
While not official holidays, these American cultural observances are widely celebrated across the U.S. and enjoyed by almost everyone.
- Halloween – This popular celebration has spread worldwide, but Americans love to take it to another level. Creepy Halloween decorations and spooky events can be seen and enjoyed for days before the October 31 night of trick or treating.
- St. Patrick’s Day – Celebrated every March 17, no matter the day of the week. This popular date sees many people heading out to enjoy socializing in pubs and bars.
- Flag Day – The June 14 holiday commemorates the 1777 adoption of the American flag, popularly referred to as “Old Glory.” Though not a federal holiday, many American citizens use this day to express their patriotism to the U.S.
Academic year breaks
The American academic year for colleges varies widely. Most schools follow the two semester system, though there are many following quarter or trimester systems. Typically, there are school breaks between academic periods. Here’s a general overview of academic breaks:
- Winter break – Mid-December to early/mid-January | Around two to three weeks
The winter break usually commences after final exams in December and includes Christmas and New Year’s. Centered around celebrating the Christmas season, this break is often a great opportunity to travel home to spend time with family and loved ones.
- Spring break – During March or April | one to two weeks
The spring break holiday is known for being a time when young people can relax and unwind. Coming just as the weather in most U.S. states is warming up, the spring break often sees crowds heading to sunny spots around the country to enjoy a few days of fun in the sun.
- Summer break – Mid-May through late August | 12 to 16 weeks
Summer break is the longest break of the academic year and runs 12 to 16 weeks. Americans usually head outdoors to enjoy the warm weather, so this is a great opportunity to explore the country. Several national holidays fall during the summer break.
- Fall break– Usually at the end of November | About five days
Also called Thanksgiving break. May include a day or more before Thanksgiving Day and ends the day after the holiday. If time allows, many travel to spend time with their families.
American traditions on holidays and during observances
There are many traditions and practices associated with American holidays. These unofficial activities and exercises celebrate the diversity of American culture and, in some cases, hold special meaning to the people participating in them.
Here are a few iconic examples:
- Independence Day often involves outdoor barbeques or cookouts with friends and family followed by fireworks displays at dark. Some campuses host Independence Day events in the lead-up to the holiday.
- Thanksgiving traditions revolve around traveling to visit family to enjoy quality time with loved ones over a large meal. These meals often include staples like mashed potatoes, corn and turkey. Americans have a tradition of inviting people unable to travel over the break to Thanksgiving dinners, so don’t be surprised if you receive an invite or two.
- Saint Patrick’s Day is a well-known religious and cultural holiday in the U.S. Celebrated worldwide but especially prominent in the U.S., many love to dress up in green and head out for a drink. Saint Patrick’s Day often coincides with the beginning of spring break and includes large-scale events like parades in cities with a strong Irish heritage such as Boston and Chicago – which even dyes its river green.
- Halloween is an unofficial holiday revered in the U.S. Kids look forward to Halloween, excited to go “trick-or-treating” for candy after sunset on the last day of October. Many young people and adults attend costume parties to mark the observance.
- Christmas is an important day on the traditional calendar. While many families around the world open gifts on Christmas Eve, Americans prefer doing so on Christmas morning. Christmas traditions in the U.S. also include making eggnog, singing Christmas songs and wearing Christmas-themed sweaters.
How holidays impact international students in the U.S.
American holidays, breaks and observances provide a great chance for international students to take some time off from their studies. They’re also perfect opportunities to engage with American culture or travel home to visit friends and family.
Whatever you choose to do during these periods, remember to plan well and be safe.
Here are some tips and pointers for planning before an American holiday or observance:
- Travel smart – Americans love to travel over the holidays. Whether hopping onto a flight, hitting the road or taking the bus, the holidays can be a very busy time. Try to avoid traffic and make your plans and reservations well in advance.
- Spending – Some popular holiday destinations and cities tend to raise prices during the busy season. From skyrocketing accommodation and travel costs to premium charges for entertainment, holiday activities and even food, draw up a realistic holiday budget and stick to it.
- Local customs and laws – Rules and regulations vary from state to state, so be careful not to break local laws or violate customs unintentionally. A quick check online or chatting to a local on arrival at your holiday destination should prepare you adequately to avoid this.
- Remember to recharge – While the holidays can be a lot of fun and a great time to socialize and meet new people, remember to rest and recuperate. Returning to class with renewed vigor and energy is always a good idea.
- Stay focused – Don’t forget to check in with your teachers and course administrators to ensure you’re not missing out on any important holiday assignments. Also, avoid skipping opportunities to earn extra credit at summer schools or other on-campus holiday events. Review your financial aid or scholarship contracts for any holiday conditions.
Enjoying the holidays responsibly
One of the best things about studying in the U.S. is the opportunity to engage with the rich and vibrant American culture. Holidays are a great way to experience what the U.S. has to offer, and Americans take their national holidays, traditions and observances seriously.
Getting familiar with American holidays and traditions before starting your academic journey will help you to optimize your planning and get the most out of your time. Remember to be safe during the holidays and engage with locals for a truly American experience. For more on getting your international student journey started, visit International Student or check out our blog.
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