Patriot Day, observed annually on September 11, is a National Day of Remembrance and Service in the United States, but it is not a federal holiday. This distinction means that federal government offices, banks, post offices, and most businesses and schools remain open. The day is designated to honor the memory of the nearly 3,000 individuals who were killed in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The status of Patriot Day is legally defined by public law and presidential proclamation. Following the attacks, President George W. Bush issued Proclamation 7463, establishing September 11 as a national day of remembrance. This was followed by the U.S. Congress passing Public Law 107-89, which designated the date as "Patriot Day." A key difference between a federal holiday and a national observance is the legal mandate for closures and paid time off. Federal holidays, such as New Year's Day or Independence Day, are established by Title 5 of the U.S. Code and require the closing of non-essential federal government functions. National observances like Patriot Day do not carry this requirement; instead, they serve to encourage specific commemorative activities.
In practice, Patriot Day is observed with solemn ceremonies and specific protocols. The President directs that the American flag be flown at half-staff on all U.S. government buildings and establishments worldwide. A nationwide moment of silence is also requested at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, marking the moment the first plane struck the World Trade Center. The day is characterized by memorial services, volunteerism, and tribute events, reflecting its purpose as a day of somber reflection rather than a celebratory holiday. It is also important not to confuse it with Patriots' Day, a state-level holiday in Massachusetts and Maine in April commemorating Revolutionary War battles.
