Patriots' Day is not an official public holiday in the state of Rhode Island. Consequently, state and local government offices, schools, and most businesses operate on a normal schedule on the third Monday of April.
The holiday specifically commemorates the opening battles of the American Revolutionary Warthe Battles of Lexington and Concord and the Siege of Bostonwhich took place on April 19, 1775. Its official observance is primarily concentrated in the states where these events occurred or have strong historical ties. Massachusetts and Maine have long recognized it as a state holiday. More recently, Connecticut (since 2018) and Wisconsin (since 2002) have also designated it as a statewide public holiday.
While Rhode Island played a crucial role in the American Revolution, its historical commemorations often focus on different events, such as the burning of the Gaspee in 1772. Therefore, despite its proximity to Massachusetts, Rhode Island does not formally participate in the Patriots' Day holiday observance. Any recognition of the day within the state is informal and does not carry the status of a legal holiday.
