September 11 is not a federal public holiday in the United States. It is officially designated as Patriot Day, a national day of observance and remembrance.
Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, a presidential proclamation declared September 11 as Patriot Day. This designation was later codified into law (36 U.S. Code 144). The day is marked by a directive for all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff at individual homes, the White House, and all U.S. government buildings and establishments, both at home and abroad. A nationwide moment of silence is also encouraged at 8:46 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
Unlike a public holiday, Patriot Day does not mandate the closure of federal government offices, schools, or private businesses. Its purpose is to serve as a solemn day for Americans to reflect, honor the victims, and pay tribute to the first responders and heroes of the 9/11 attacks through memorial services and other commemorative activities.
