The keyword "Patriot Day" is a proper noun. As a national designation, Patriot Day is an observance but not a federal holiday. Consequently, federal government offices, banks, schools, and most businesses do not close on September 11. It is a day of remembrance rather than a paid day off from work.
Established by Public Law 107-89, Patriot Day is formally designated as a "National Day of Service and Remembrance." The President of the United States directs that the American flag be flown at half-staff at all government buildings and establishments. The proclamation also calls for a moment of silence to be observed at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), marking the time of the first aircraft collision with the North Tower of the World Trade Center. This day is often confused with Patriots' Day, a state-level government holiday in Massachusetts, Maine, and Wisconsin that occurs in April to commemorate the Battles of Lexington and Concord.
The distinction between an observance and a holiday is critical. The purpose of designating Patriot Day as an observance is to encourage solemn commemoration and participation in community service, honoring the individuals who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 attacks. Its status ensures that the day is marked by reflection and tribute within the normal functions of society, rather than by the cessation of commerce and government activities that characterizes a federal holiday.
