Historical Holiday

Alaska Day
Alaska Day is a state holiday in Alaska to commemorate the formal transfer of Alaska from Russian to U.S. ownership. This event marked the culmination of the Alaska Purchase and a significant milestone in American history.

Hawke's Bay Anniversary Day
Hawke’s Bay Anniversary Day began in 1858 to mark the creation of the Hawke’s Bay Province. Although the provinces were abolished in 1876, the holiday survived as a regional public holiday.

Labour Day (New Zealand)
Labour Day in New Zealand commemorates the establishment of the eight-hour workday led by Samuel Parnell in 1840, celebrates workers’ rights, and serves today as both a historical reminder and a springtime holiday.

Republic Day in Turkey
Republic Day is Turkey’s most important national holiday. It commemorates the official proclamation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the victory of the Turkish War of Independence.

Nevada Day
Nevada Day is an annual state holiday celebrated in Nevada to commemorate the state’s admission to the United States as the 36th state on October 31, 1864. The holiday is a celebration of Nevada’s history, culture, and heritage, featuring various community events and festivities.

Marlborough Anniversary Day
Marlborough Anniversary Day began in 1859 with the creation of Marlborough Province after its separation from Nelson. Even though the provinces were abolished in 1876, the holiday survived as a regional anniversary day. It continues as a symbol of regional identity and pride, as well as a springtime holiday for residents.

Melbourne Cup Day
Melbourne Cup Day is one of Australia's most celebrated sporting events, held at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria. It is a 3200-meter (2-mile) race for thoroughbred horses aged three years and older, with a prize pool exceeding $8 million AUD.

Sint Maarten's Day
Sint Maarten’s Day commemorates both the naming of the island by Columbus in 1493 and honors Saint Martin of Tours. Today, it is a public holiday of unity, jointly celebrated by French Saint-Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten with ceremonies, cultural festivities, and community pride.

Canterbury Anniversary Day
Canterbury Anniversary Day commemorates the arrival of the First Four Ships in 1850 and the founding of the Canterbury Province. Though linked to December 16, it is now observed on the Show Day in November, marked by agricultural fairs, community events and a regional holiday.

Freedom and Democracy Day (Slovakia)
Freedom and Democracy Day in Slovakia commemorates both the 1939 student protests against Nazi occupation and the 1989 student-led Velvet Revolution, symbolizing the nation’s ongoing commitment to freedom, democracy, and civic courage.

Independence Day Suriname
Independence Day in Suriname commemorates the country's peaceful independence from the Netherlands in 1975. Marked by ceremonies, flag-raising, parades and cultural events, it is a national celebration of freedom and Suriname’s multicultural identity.

Chatham Islands Anniversary Day
Chatham Islands Anniversary Day commemorates the region’s historical settlement and provincial foundation. It remains a regional public holiday, giving residents of the Chatham Islands a long weekend for rest and community events.