American Holidays and Celebrations

Halloween began as a Celtic festival called Samhain. Many Halloween traditions and symbols, such as bats and black cats, come from this festival. Find out more in Halloween, one of the titles in the American Holidays and Celebrations series.

On the third Monday of January, Americans celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This national holiday honors the life of one of America's greatest leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Find out more in Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, one of the titles in the American Holidays and Celebrations series.

Every year on May 5, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated across Mexico and the United States. This holiday celebrates the victory of the Mexican army over the French at the Battle of Puebla. Find out more in Cinco de Mayo, one of the titles in the American Holidays and Celebrations series.

The month of February is set apart as a time to study and reflect on Black history and the contributions of Black Americans. During Black History Month, a variety of events are held to showcase these achievements. Find out more in Black History Month, one of the titles in the American Holidays and Celebrations series.