The Fourth of July, or Independence Day, commemorates the ratification of the Declaration of Independence.
DI observes the Fourth of July if it falls on a weekday.
Juneteenth began as an emancipation celebration in Texas commemorating the emancipation of African Americans in Texas in 1865. Observance of the holiday has spread throughout the country, spurred by the Civil Rights Movement and again by current activism regarding systemic racism.
DI observes Juneteenth on June 19th, or the Friday closest to June 19th if it falls on a weekend.
Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that celebrates history, values, family, community and culture. Created in 1966 by Maulana Ron Karenga, Kwanzaa is observed from December 26 to January 1.
Many East Asian cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year on the same new moon in late January or early February.
Celebrations differ. The Celebration of Chinese New Year culminates in the Lantern Festival.
Many East Asian cultures celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, or Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival. It is celebrated on the full moon in September or October.
Nowruz, or Persian New Year, begins on the spring equinox.
Thanksgiving is celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November.
DI observes Thanksgiving by closing campus for the whole week. The administration works Monday and Tuesday remotely, and DI is completely closed Wednesday through Friday.