Holidays

FALL

Labor Day
This holiday occurs the first Monday in September and there are no classes this day. This holiday began as a day to recognize workers and their rights. Some cities have parades and community picnics. Many politicians kick off their political campaigns by holding rallies on the holiday. Most Americans consider Labor Day the end of the summer, and the beaches and other popular resort areas are packed with people enjoying one last three-day weekend.
Fall Break
This university holiday occurs on a Friday in mid-October. There are no classes, so students will have a 3-day weekend to enjoy.
Halloween
October 31, is the next major celebration day. Classes will be held, but many,professors and students on campus may dress up as anything from witches to fairies to vampires. There is a big party on USU's campus called the Howl to celebrate Halloween-in fact, the Howl is the biggest Halloween party in Utah. Students come from all of the major universities in Utah to attend. History of Halloween
Thanksgiving
This is always celebrated on the 4th Thursday in November. You will generally receive three days of vacation--the Wednesday before and the Friday after. Today, Thanksgiving is all about family gatherings for a traditional meal of turkey, potatoes, stuffing and pumpkin pie. If you have made American friends while you're here, this is the best time to visit their home - you will get a real sense of 'Americana'.

Human Rights Day
Celebrates - you guessed it - Human Rights! It is based on the traditions of Martin Luther King, Jr as a civil rights activist in the US during the 1960's. There are no classes on this date, the second Monday in January. There may be peace vigils on campus or in the community in celebration of this day. Many students enjoy a skiing holiday!
Valentine's Day
February 14th, is a popular day to celebrate with a loved one and give your girlfriend a valentine--often a box of chocolates or flowers.
Presidents' Day
It is always on the third Monday of February. It is a day set up to honor all past presidents of the United States. There are no particular traditions, etc. associated with this holiday, except there are no classes and most government offices will be closed.
Spring Break
Most universities in the US give their students a one week break sometime in the spring. At USU, this is usually the second week in March. Some simply go home for a week, some go to Las Vegas, Hawaii or Mexico, or others do volunteer work or service during this week and participate in the alternative breaks program through the USU student club organizations.

Memorial Day
As Labor Day marks the end of summer, this holiday marks the beginning of summer. Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, is a holiday meant to honor those who have died in any war that the United States has been involved in. It is also the day when any and all grave sites are decorated by family. This is the busiest travel weekend of the year with tourists swarming all over the National Parks and tourist locations to celebrate warm weather. No classes will be held this day if you are attending summer semester.
Independence Day
July 4th, celebrates the independence of the United States from Great Britain. This is a major community holiday with parades, fireworks, barbecues and more. No matter what day July 4th falls on, be it a weekend or a weekday, there are no classes on this holiday.
Pioneer Day
July 24th, is strictly a Utah holiday in celebration of early pioneer settlements in Utah. There are no classes this day which celebrates the pioneer spirit. This is a major holiday in Utah with fireworks, parades, and community celebrations rivaling the Independence Day celebrations.