Patriots' Day is a proper noun identifying a civic holiday observed in the United States, specifically in the states of Massachusetts and Maine. It is celebrated annually on the third Monday of April. The holiday commemorates the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which occurred on April 19, 1775, and marked the first armed conflicts of the American Revolutionary War.
The historical significance of the holiday is tied directly to the start of the American war for independence from Great Britain. The events commemorated include the famous "midnight ride" of Paul Revere and William Dawes, who warned colonial minutemen of the approaching British forces. Modern observances blend historical remembrance with contemporary traditions. These include historical reenactments of the battles, particularly in Lexington and Concord, as well as parades and civic ceremonies. The most widely recognized event associated with the holiday is the Boston Marathon, which has been held on Patriots' Day every year since 1897.
Functioning as a proper noun, the term "Patriots' Day" names a specific regional event that celebrates the origins of American liberty and the concept of the citizen-soldier. It is distinct from national holidays like Independence Day, which celebrates the formal declaration of independence, or Memorial Day, which honors those who died in military service. Its regional focus in New England underscores the pivotal role Massachusetts played in the inception of the United States.
