Patriots' Day is a civic holiday observed in several U.S. states, most notably Massachusetts and Maine, on the third Monday of April. It commemorates the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which took place on April 19, 1775. These engagements were the first armed conflicts of the American Revolutionary War and symbolize the beginning of the fight for American independence from Great Britain.
The holiday honors the actions of the colonial militiamen, or "patriots," who first confronted British forces. The historical events are commemorated through various activities, including parades and historical reenactments, particularly in the towns of Lexington and Concord. Prominent contemporary traditions associated with the day include the annual running of the Boston Marathon, which has been held on Patriots' Day since 1897, and a traditional morning home game for the Boston Red Sox baseball team at Fenway Park.
In essence, the holiday signifies a regional celebration of American liberty, civic duty, and the spirit of citizen-led resistance. Its observance connects historical memory with modern cultural and sporting events, creating a unique and deeply rooted tradition. It is crucial to distinguish Patriots' Day, the April holiday, from Patriot Day, which is a separate national day of observance on September 11 to remember the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
