The Rest of the Holiday Story

And here are the holiday origins for most of the holidays in the second half of the year.

July 4th, Independence Day, celebrates the Declaration of Independence also called Fourth of July. This could also be called the fireworks holiday since they always provide the evening climax.

First Monday in September, Labor Day, celebrates the achievements of workers and the labor movement, and of course it marks the unofficial end of summer.

Second Monday in October, Columbus Day, honors Christopher Columbus, traditional discoverer of the Americas. Of course, this would only be the case for those who don't know the Americas were really discovered by Amerigo Vespucci previous to that. But there is no holiday set aside for him so forget it, we'll carry on the charade.

November 11, Veteran's Day, honors all veterans of the United States armed forces. A traditional observation is a moment of silence at 11 AM remembering those who fought for peace. (Commemorates the cease-fire in the 1918 armistice which was scheduled for "the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.") This has certainly grown to include veterans of all wars or, in some cases, police actions (they didn't want to call Vietnam a war.

Fourth Thursday in November, Thanksgiving, traditionally celebrates the giving of thanks for the autumn harvest (supposedly started by the pilgrims - immigrants from England on the East coast). Traditionally includes the consumption of a turkey dinner. You could also say it's the traditional start of the "holiday season" with what has come to be known as "Black Friday" immediately following.

December 25, Christmas Day, celebrates the Nativity of Jesus which (traditionally) took place 25 December 1 BC. Some people consider aspects of this religious holiday, such as giving gifts and decorating a Christmas tree, to be secular rather than explicitly Christian. This would be especially true for the non-Christians who celebrate it. Even though the tree is more along pagan lines.

So, this ends the holiday expose. Live long and learn, and prosper too.