August Holidays and Events in the United States

Courtesy of Romolo Tavani - Fotolia.com

Why are special occasions and events important?
- Special occasions and events help to keep our days varied and exciting, giving us different things to look forward to at almost any time of year.
What makes holidays in the US unique?
- The US has a rich history of holidays, with many important historical dates to celebrate and plenty of reasons for people to come together and be happy, enjoying parties, food, festivals, parades, ceremonies, and more.
Are there holidays and events every month in the US?
- Yes! Each and every month of the American calendar has several great holidays and events for all to enjoy.

Are there any federal holidays in August?
- August is surprisingly light in terms of holidays, as there are no federal holidays in this month.
What is the most widely celebrated holiday in August?
- The only holiday that is truly celebrated nationwide in August is Women’s Equality Day.
Why do many people travel in August?
- August is the hottest month of the year for most states in the US, so many people take this time to go on vacation and travel around the country.
What types of special events happen in August?
- With so many people traveling and good weather to enjoy, August is a month for several big special events in the US, with many state fairs being held at this time of year.

127 Corridor Sale - First Thursday of August

What are yard sales, and why are they popular in the US?
- Yard sales are a distinctly American invention. While other countries hold second-hand sales in some form, the classic yard sale is a beloved part of American culture.
When does the biggest yard sale of the year take place?
- The biggest yard sale of the year happens in August. The 127 Corridor Sale, also known as the 127 Yard Sale, begins on the first Thursday of August each year along US 127.
What is special about the 127 Yard Sale?
- Known as the longest yard sale on Earth, this event started in 1987 and originally ran from Covington, Kentucky to Chattanooga, Tennessee.
How long is the 127 Yard Sale?
- Over the years, the sale has grown and expanded to the point that it now runs for almost 700 miles (1,110 km) in total.
Has the 127 Yard Sale been featured in the media?
- Yes! The yard sale has been featured on TV and is a key event of the year for many people.

What is the Burning Man Festival?
- Well known all over the world, the Burning Man Festival is an annual art and community event that has been held in the US every year since 1986.
Where was Burning Man originally held?
- The event was originally held on Baker Beach in San Francisco before moving to the Black Rock Desert in Nevada.
What makes Burning Man unique?
- Burning Man is a thoroughly unique event that cannot really be compared to any other festival or holiday due to its special forms of celebrations.
What is the theme of Burning Man?
- The festival is all about self-expression and helping others, featuring a lot of experimental art in the form of sculptures, painted cars, and more.
Does Burning Man have a different theme each year?
- Yes! Each year, a new theme is chosen, and participants create unique projects inspired by the year’s theme.
What are some core values of the Burning Man community?
- Gift giving and charity causes are a big part of the event. The Burning Man community also has a strong respect for the environment, making big efforts to clean up and leave no trace when the festival finishes.

When is Women's Equality Day celebrated?
- Women's Equality Day is held in the US on August 26 each year, honoring the Nineteenth Amendment, which was adopted on the same date in 1920 and gave women the right to vote.
When was Women's Equality Day first celebrated?
- Women's Equality Day was first celebrated in 1973, when Congress approved a bill to make the date official. Since then, it has been proclaimed every year by the President of the United States.
Which president first proclaimed Women's Equality Day?
- Richard Nixon was the first president to proclaim Women's Equality Day, citing women's suffrage and equality in his speech, while also acknowledging that much work still remained for women to enjoy the same rights and respect as men.
Why is Women's Equality Day important?
- Women's Equality Day is one of several holidays honoring women throughout the year. In recent years, it has taken on greater significance as people recognize both the progress made and the injustices women still face in modern society.
How is Women's Equality Day observed?
- Marches may be held on this date in support of women’s rights. Additionally, the internet has become a powerful tool for people to share their messages and views on this important occasion.