Patriots' Day is an official state holiday exclusively in Massachusetts and Maine. In addition, Wisconsin observes it as a public school holiday, and Connecticut marks the day with ceremonial observances, but it is not a legal public holiday in these latter states. Only in Massachusetts and Maine does it result in the closure of state and local government offices, schools, and many businesses.
The holiday commemorates the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which occurred on April 19, 1775, and marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War. It is officially observed on the third Monday in April in both Massachusetts and Maine to create a three-day weekend. The day is characterized by historical reenactments of the battles, parades, and other civic events. The most famous event associated with the holiday is the Boston Marathon, which has been held on Patriots' Day since 1897.
The observance of Patriots' Day is a significant example of a regional, rather than federal, holiday. Its legal status is confined to the states where the commemorated historical events took place, reflecting a strong connection to local heritage. This specificity distinguishes it from national holidays and underscores the unique role of Massachusetts and its then-district of Maine in the outbreak of the American Revolution.
