Patriot Day is the official United States national day of remembrance for the nearly 3,000 individuals killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. It is observed annually on September 11. In the year 2025, this solemn commemoration will take place on Thursday, September 11. The term "Patriot Day 2025" functions as a proper noun, naming the specific observance for that year.
The observance was established by U.S. Public Law 107-89, signed by President George W. Bush on December 18, 2001. By law, the President directs that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff at all U.S. government buildings, installations, and public vessels both domestically and internationally. A presidential proclamation also calls for a national moment of silence to be observed at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time, corresponding to the time the first aircraft struck the World Trade Center. It is a national day of observance and not a federal holiday; therefore, schools, banks, and businesses typically remain open.
This day is distinct from Patriots' Day, a state-level holiday in April celebrated in Massachusetts, Maine, and Wisconsin that commemorates the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The purpose of Patriot Day is to provide a dedicated time for national reflection, to honor the victims and first responders of the 9/11 attacks, and to encourage community service and charitable activities as a tribute. The 2025 event will mark the 24th anniversary of the attacks.
