Labor Day: September 6

A national legal holiday that is more than a century old, Labor Day observes the commitment and sacrifices made by workers and laborers. For most people it's a day for rest and recreation. Since Labor Day marks the end of summer, campsites, beaches, and resorts are crowded with people enjoying the summer's final three-day weekend.

Labor Day originated from a celebration in honor of the working class held by the Knights of Labor in 1882. On September 5, 1884, the first Labor Day parade was held in New York City, where 20,000 workers carried banners which read "eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, eight hours for recreation."

Throughout the next few years, the idea spread from the East to the West, and eventually the entire U.S. participated. Colorado was the first state to declare Labor Day a state holiday in 1887; seven years later, in 1894, President Cleveland declared Labor Day a federal public holiday.

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Grandparent's Day: September 12

On Grandparents' Day, grandchildren show their appreciation for their grandparents by spending quality time with them and by sending cards, flowers, and gifts.

Grandparents' Day has three purposes: to honor grandparents; to give grandparents the opportunity to show their love for their grandchildren; and to help children realize the insight and guidance older people can offer. Every grandchild may be involved in the celebrations, as it's a day for discovering family roots and for learning patience and understanding.

Originally observed by the state of West Virginia, Grandparents' Day was declared a national holiday by U.S. congress in 1978. To signify the "autumn years" of life, September was chosen for the holiday. Today millions throughout the United States observe this event.

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Citizenship Day: September 17

Citizens of the United States honor the rights and privileges of their Constitution on Citizenship Day. It is also a special day to recognize individuals who became US citizens the year before.

Proclaimed by President Harry Truman on February 29, 1952, Citizenship Day replaced Constitution Day, which had also been observed on September 17 as the anniversary of the signing of the US Constitution in 1787.

Citizenship Day is sponsored by the National Conference of Citizens. It is celebrated with donations and exercises organized by patriotic and civic groups across the United States.

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Native American Day: September 24

Native American Day is a day for celebrating the unique cultures of Native American people from coast to coast. The first day set aside to honor Native Americans took place in 1912, in Rochester New York. Dr. Arthur C. Parker, director of the Rochester Museum of Arts and Sciences, suggested that the Boy Scouts of America observe an "American Indian Day."

In 1914, Red Fox James, a member of the Blackfoot Nation, sought the support of state governors in having a national American Indian Day proclaimed. New York State was the first to declare American Indian Day in May, 1916; in 1960 Governor Rockefeller declared Friday, September 23, as an official date dedicated to honoring Native American people.

Native American Day is observed nationally, although actual dates vary from state to state. While some states celebrate Native American Day in May or November, most celebrate it on the fourth Friday in September.

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Rosh Hashanah: September 16
Yom Kippur: September 25

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur make up the Jewish High Holy Days. Meaning "head of the year" in Hebrew, Rosh Hashanah is observed on Tishri 1 by the Hebrew calendar, which takes place in early autumn.

Rosh Hashanah celebrates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year. It's a time for reflecting on the past year and for making resolutions for the year ahead. Apples and honey are eaten in the hopes that the new year is "sweet."

Observance of Rosh Hashanah begins at sunset and lasts for two days. The synagogue service includes the blowing of the shofar (ram's horn) and a liturgy which emphasizes God's authority.

Rosh Hashanah begins the penitential season, then ends ten days later on Yom Kippur, the most important day in the Jewish year. Yom Kippur is also known as the "Day of Atonement." Observance of Yom Kippur begins at sunset with the Kol Nidre service of repentance, and ends at nightfall the following day with the sounding of the shofar. It is commonly observed by fasting and prayer.

The days between and including Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are recognized as "Days of Awe" or "Days of Repentance." During this time Jewish people seek out and ask forgiveness from those they've wronged. These reconciliations must take place before Yom Kippur.

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National Good Neighbor Day: September 26

Observed annually the fourth Sunday in September, National Good Neighbor day celebrates the spirit of community. On this day, neighbors show appreciation for one another by participating in community functions as well as sending c ards, flowers, and gifts.

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