Thanksgiving has been held on the fourth Thursday in November since 1941, which means that the date of the holiday shifts each year. The earliest Thanksgiving can occur is November 22; the latest is November 28. President Roosevelt changed Thanksgiving from the fourth Thursday to the third Thursday in November in 1939. However, this was not a very popular move. Native Americans in North America celebrated harvest festivals for centuries before a Thanksgiving federal holiday was formally established in the United States. Colonial services for these festivals date back to the late 16th century. The autumnal feasts celebrated the harvest of crops after a season of bountiful growth. The first national Thanksgiving celebration was observed in honor of the creation of the new United States Constitution ! In 1789, President George Washington issued a proclamation designating November 26 of that year as a “Day of Public Thanksgiving” to re...
Veterans Day is a time for us to pay our respects to those who have served. For one day, we stand united in respect for you, our veterans. This holiday started as a day to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in our country's service and was originally called Armistice Day . It fell on Nov. 11 because that is the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. However, in 1954, the holiday was changed to "Veterans Day" in order to account for all veterans in all wars . We celebrate and honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. What do you need to know about celebrating Veterans Day? Veterans Day, a U.S. federal holiday, is a time to honor and thank those who are serving or have served in the military and are still with us. On Veterans Day, think about how you can show a veteran extra appreciation. Attend a Veterans Day parade or event in ...