The proper noun "Patriots' Day" is most commonly referred to informally as Marathon Monday. Historically, the observance also replaced earlier, localized commemorations known by the names Lexington Day and Concord Day.
The colloquial name "Marathon Monday" is directly linked to the Boston Marathon, which has been held on the holiday annually since 1897. This strong association has made the term a widely recognized synonym, especially within the New England region. The historical names, "Lexington Day" and "Concord Day," stem from the specific events the holiday commemorates: the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. Before Massachusetts officially consolidated the observance under the title "Patriots' Day" in 1894, individual communities often celebrated the anniversary by the name of the battle that took place in their town.
Therefore, while "Patriots' Day" is the official legal name for the holiday, the alternative nouns used to describe it reflect its dual identity. "Marathon Monday" highlights its modern cultural significance as the date of a major sporting event, while the historical names point to its specific origins in the foundational battles of the American Revolutionary War. The choice of which name to use often depends on the context, whether it be official, cultural, or historical.
