What are the 12 paid holidays per year?
In many countries around the world, employees are entitled to a certain number of paid holidays each year. This not only provides them with a break from their daily work routine but also allows them to spend quality time with their families and engage in leisure activities. In this article, we will explore the 12 paid holidays that are commonly observed globally.
1. New Year’s Day (January 1)
New Year’s Day is a universal holiday celebrated on January 1st to mark the beginning of a new year. It is a time for reflection, celebration, and the anticipation of what the upcoming year will bring.
2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
Named after the renowned civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday of January. It commemorates King’s birthday and his contributions to the civil rights movement.
3. Washington’s Birthday (Third Monday in February)
Washington’s Birthday, also known as President’s Day, is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It honors the birthday of George Washington, the first President of the United States.
4. Good Friday
Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed on the Friday before Easter and is a day of mourning and reflection for many Christians.
5. Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors those who have died while serving in the military. It is observed on the last Monday of May and marks the beginning of summer for many people.
6. Independence Day (July 4)
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday celebrated on July 4th in the United States. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which declared the 13 American colonies’ independence from Great Britain.
7. Labor Day (First Monday in September)
Labor Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the first Monday of September in the United States. It honors the contributions of workers and is often marked by parades, picnics, and other festive activities.
8. Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
Columbus Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. It commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. In some countries, it is also known as Indigenous People’s Day, recognizing the impact of European colonization on Native American populations.
9. Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
Thanksgiving Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States. It is a day of giving thanks for the blessings received throughout the year and is often accompanied by a large family gathering and a traditional feast.
10. Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas Day is a federal holiday celebrated on December 25th to honor the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time of joy, celebration, and the exchange of gifts. In many countries, it is also a time for family reunions and festive decorations.
11. Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. The date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
12. Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is another important Muslim holiday. It commemorates the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. During this holiday, Muslims offer sacrifices, distribute meat to the poor, and celebrate with family and friends.
In conclusion, the 12 paid holidays per year provide employees with an opportunity to take a break from their work and engage in various cultural, religious, and social activities. These holidays are an essential part of many countries’ cultures and contribute to the overall well-being of their citizens.
