September 11 is not a legal state holiday in Massachusetts. It is officially designated as "Massachusetts 9/11 Day," a day of observance and remembrance. This distinction means that it is a formally recognized day but does not carry the legal status of a public holiday where government offices, schools, and many businesses close.
The status of this day is defined in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 6, Section 15AAAA. The statute directs the governor to issue an annual proclamation calling for the observance of the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. It specifically recommends that a moment of silence be observed at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center. Because it is an observance, not a legal holiday, state and municipal offices remain open, public schools hold classes, and it is a standard business day for private employers.
In practice, the designation serves to ensure a formal, statewide commemoration to honor the victims, first responders, and families affected by the terrorist attacks of 2001. Unlike official state holidays like Patriots' Day, "Massachusetts 9/11 Day" does not affect work or school schedules. Its purpose is solely one of solemn remembrance and civic reflection.
