Patriots’ Day falls on Monday, April, marking a milestone years since the battles of Lexington and Concord ignited the American Revolution. But despite its deep roots in American history, many are surprised to learn that Patriots’ Day is not a federal holiday.
Patriots’ Day is officially recognized in Massachusetts, Maine, and a handful of other states, but it does not appear on the federal holiday calendar. This means most federal employees and many across the country will not have the day off. In Massachusetts and Maine, however, Patriots’ Day is a major observance, complete with reenactments, parades, and the world-famous Boston Marathon.
The holiday was first celebrated in to commemorate the “shot heard ’round the world” and the start of the American Revolution on April, 177. Since, it has been observed on the third Monday in April, creating a long weekend for many in the participating states.
This year’s Patriots’ Day is especially significant, with expanded celebrations and historical reenactments marking the 250th anniversary of the Revolution’s beginning. If you’re in Massachusetts or Maine, expect major events, but for most Americans, April will be business as usual.
