Holidays & National Days
Browse well-known national days and holidays: the usual date, where each began and simple ways to celebrate, from Valentine’s Day to New Year’s Eve.
Bastille Day History Explained: What July 14 Really Marks
Bastille Day is observed on July 14. This explainer covers the 1789 events, the 1790 festival, the 1880 holiday and ways to celebrate at home.
Veterans Day vs Memorial Day: What Each Observance Means
Veterans Day honors everyone who has served in the US military, while Memorial Day remembers those who died in service. Here is how they differ.
Halloween Party Planning Guide for Families and Friends
Plan a Halloween party that works for kids and adults with a simple timeline, stations, snacks and a quick explanation of the holiday's origins.
Groundhog Day Myths and Facts: What Phil’s Shadow Really Means
Does a groundhog really predict spring? Sort the folklore from the facts about Groundhog Day, from German roots to Punxsutawney Phil and a famous film.
Labor Day Weekend Checklist: Plan, Pack and Relax
A practical Labor Day weekend checklist covering travel timing, cookout food, packing and a lighter schedule, with a short history of the holiday.
International Friendship Day: 12 Easy Ways to Celebrate
International Friendship Day is observed on July 30, and these twelve low-cost ideas make it easy to reconnect, whether friends live close by or far away.
Earth Day Planning Checklist for Homes, Schools and Offices
Earth Day, observed on April 22, works best with a plan. This checklist covers timing, tasks and ideas for families, classrooms and teams of any size.
World Teachers’ Day: 15 Meaningful Ways to Say Thanks
World Teachers' Day is observed on October 5, and these fifteen thank-you ideas for students, parents and school staff cost little but mean a lot.
New Year’s Day Traditions and Where They Come From
Why does the year begin on January 1, and where did the lucky foods, countdowns and fresh-start rituals come from? Here is the story behind them.