Is Veterans Day a federal holiday? What you should know about November 11th

by Junna Base November 11, 2024

Monday, November 11th is Veterans Day.

The annual holiday in November recognizes and honors U.S. military personnel and their service.

The holiday was first established on November 11, 1919 as “Armistice Day” and was intended to commemorate the end of the First World War.

Congress later passed a resolution declaring it an annual holiday in 1926. And in 1938, Armistice Day was declared a national holiday.

But is Veterans Day a federal holiday?

You might be surprised to learn that there is a difference between a national holiday and a federal holiday.

A national holiday is recognized by most businesses, retailers and the government. However, a federal holiday is a holiday that the government designates specifically for federal institutions and their employees.

For example, the U.S. Post Office is a government facility and therefore opens and closes accordingly on federal holidays.

There are 11 federal holidays each year when the U.S. Post Office and other institutions, as well as most schools and banks, are closed. Find out what they are and whether Veterans Day is considered a federal holiday.

Is Veterans Day a federal holiday?

After Armistice Day was declared a national holiday in 1938, it was celebrated annually until President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a law changing the honor to “embracing.” all Military personnel who have served their country, whether in peace or war.

The holiday, renamed “Veterans Day,” was enshrined in law in 1954 and declared a federal holiday.

Yes, Veterans Day is a federal holiday, which means most government offices and institutions – as well as schools and banks – are closed on this day.

How is Veterans Day celebrated?

To mark Veterans Day, many communities and cities host parades, church services and other commemorations to honor veterans. There is also an annual ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery where a wreath is laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at 11 a.m

Many restaurants and businesses across the country celebrate the day by offering special discounts and free food to serving men and women, and citizens often show their support by raising flags and observing a moment of silence in honor of the fallen.