An Iranian girl buys bean sprouts on the occasion of Norooz, the Iranian new year, in Tehran, March 2000.

Hamantaschen on a plate with mask and Purim Scroll.

From religious and patriotic holidays to celebrations of ethnic pride, explore the history of Easter, Passover, New Year's Day, Veterans' Day, Memorial Day and more annual observances.

Annual Observances

Holidays are an integral part of human history. Learn about Easter, New Year's Day, Valentine's Day, Memorial Day, pagan holidays and more.

Annual Observances: History of Federal Holidays | HISTORY

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The continent of Asia, home to the majority of the world's population and countries as diverse as China, South Korea and India, has thousands of years of rich history.

Asian History

Religion and spiritual issues, including Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, the Bible, Wicca, Buddhism and more, are at the core of human values and history.

Religion

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The Middle East is a large and diverse region composed of several countries and cultures in north Africa and western Asia. Its complex history includes the Persian Gulf War, the Iran Hostage Crisis, the Yom Kippur War, Zionism and more.

Annual Observances ‑ Topics

More to History: Armed Forces Day Began With the Stroke of a Pen

More to History: A Disaster for Veterans on Labor Day

Purim

Nowruz – Persian New Year

Holi: The Festival of Colors

Chinese New Year in San Francisco

Daylight Saving Time

St. Patrick’s Day and the American Revolution

The White House Easter Egg Roll

Mardi Gras in New Orleans Came from a Secret Society

New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

How Nutcrackers Became A Holiday Icon