Patriot Day, observed annually on September 11, is a national day of observance but is not a federal holiday. The central distinction lies in its classification; while it holds national significance, it does not carry the legal status of a public holiday designated by Congress, which would typically involve paid time off for federal employees and widespread closures.
A federal holiday in the United States is established by law under Title 5 of the U.S. Code. Such holidays result in the closure of non-essential federal government offices, the U.S. Postal Service, and federally chartered banks. In contrast, Patriot Day was established by a presidential proclamation following a joint resolution by Congress. It is officially designated as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. The proclamation directs that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff and calls for a national moment of silence to honor the individuals who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Consequently, the practical application of this status is that government agencies, educational institutions, and private businesses are not required to close. They generally operate on a normal schedule. The day's focus is on civic and commemorative activities, such as remembrance ceremonies and community service projects, rather than a day of leisure. Therefore, while it is a day of profound national reflection, it does not function as a public holiday.
