September 11 is not a federal holiday in the United States. Consequently, federal government offices, schools, and most businesses operate on a normal schedule. It is, however, officially designated as a national day of observance through federal law.
The date is formally known as Patriot Day. A joint resolution approved by the U.S. Congress on December 18, 2001, and a subsequent presidential proclamation, designated September 11 of each year as Patriot Day. In 2009, Congress passed and President Obama signed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, which further designated the date as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. In accordance with federal law, the flag of the United States is flown at half-staff on all government buildings and establishments, and a moment of silence is often observed at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
The distinction between a day of observance and a federal holiday is significant. While federal holidays typically provide a day off from work for federal employees and are often associated with leisure or celebration, a national day of observance like Patriot Day is intended for solemn commemoration and civic engagement. The focus is on remembering the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, honoring the first responders, and encouraging volunteerism and community service as a tribute.
