Christmas Federal Holiday 2018 In The United States

Christmas is one of the most significant and widely celebrated holidays in the United States, observed on December 25th every year. In 2018, Christmas fell on a Tuesday, making Monday, December 24th, Christmas Eve, and Tuesday, December 25th, a federal holiday.

Origins and History of Christmas

Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity. However, the origins of Christmas celebrations are complex and involve various cultural influences. Early European festivities, such as the Germanic festival of Yule and the Roman festival of Saturnalia, predated the Christian holiday. Over time, Christmas became a distinct Christian holiday and spread throughout the world, incorporating various traditions and customs.

Christian Significance of Christmas

For Christians, Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ, who is believed to be the son of God. According to the New Testament, Jesus was born to Mary, a virgin, and Joseph in Bethlehem. The birth of Jesus is seen as a significant event in Christian theology, marking the arrival of the savior who would redeem humanity from sin.

Traditions and Celebrations

Christmas is a time for celebration and merriment in the United States. Some common traditions and customs associated with Christmas include:

• Decorating homes and public spaces with lights, wreaths, and Christmas trees
• Exchanging gifts with family and friends
• Spending time with loved ones, often through family gatherings and meals
• Singing Christmas carols and listening to holiday music
• Attending church services and midnight mass

Christmas in the United States

Christmas is a federal holiday in the United States, which means that government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed on December 25th. Additionally, many organizations and institutions offer special holiday hours or events.

In 2018, many popular Christmas destinations and events were open to the public, including:

• The National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C.
• The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City
• The Disneyland and Disney World holiday celebrations
• The festive markets and events in cities like Chicago and Philadelphia

Observance and Holiday Hours

Christmas is a federal holiday, which means that many organizations and institutions observe special hours or closures. Here are some examples of holiday hours for 2018:

• Federal government offices: Closed on December 25th
• Post offices: Closed on December 25th
• Banks: Varying hours, with some branches closed on December 25th
• Schools: Closed on December 25th and possibly December 24th
• Retail stores: Varying hours, with some stores open on December 24th and closed on December 25th

Impact on Businesses and Economy

Christmas is a significant holiday for many businesses, particularly those in the retail and hospitality industries. In 2018, many businesses took steps to prepare for the holiday season, including:

• Hiring seasonal staff to handle increased demand
• Offering special promotions and discounts
• Extending holiday hours to accommodate shoppers
• Creating festive atmospheres and events to attract customers

Gallery of Christmas Traditions

In conclusion, Christmas is a significant holiday in the United States, observed on December 25th. The holiday has a rich history and is celebrated through various traditions and customs, including decorating homes, exchanging gifts, and spending time with loved ones. Whether you're a Christian or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, Christmas is a time for joy, giving, and celebration.

Gallery of Christmas Federal Holiday 2018 In The United States