Every year, as spring ushers in sunnier, warmer days and fills us with an overall sense of renewal, people everywhere gather to celebrate a most significant and important holiday: Passover.
Like many other holidays, Passover is a celebration of rebirth, freedom, and gratitude. The story of Passover is one of persistence and bravery, and the holiday serves as a time for reflection as well as one when we remember the resiliency and quest for survival of the Jewish people.
Though it is traditionally a Jewish holiday, more than one in five Americans, recent surveys show, recognize and observe Passover in some form, making it an impactful occurrence for even those outside the Jewish faith.
“Passover is such a preeminent holiday religiously because it reminds us of God,” says philosopher and scholar Steven Katz, Ph.D., a professor of Jewish and Holocaust Studies at Boston University. “It marks the history of the world and the history of the Jewish people. When we celebrate Passover, we’re celebrating God’s power and the power of faith and redemption.”
When is Passover this year?
Passover will occur much later on the calendar in 2024 than is typical. The holiday will begin at sundown on April 22 and end eight days later on Tuesday, April 30, also at sundown.
In general, the holiday can take place anytime during the months of March or April. Its ultimate date is determined by the Hebrew calendar, which is based on lunar cycles — and also impacted by 2024 being a Jewish leap year. Passover typically falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, which is also the first night of a full moon after the spring equinox.
What is the history of Passover?
The epic and harrowing story of Passover (or “Pesach” as it’s referred to in Hebrew) can — and does — fill countless services, speeches, books, and films. Essentially, the holiday is an occasion to commemorate and celebrate the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt (almost 3,500 years ago), as narrated in the biblical book of Exodus.
As the story goes, after centuries of suffering and slavery, God sent a prophet named Moses to demand the Israelites’ release. When Egypt’s pharaoh, King Ramses II, refused, a series of plagues was brought upon Egypt, culminating in the 10th — the “death of the firstborn.” To protect the Israelites, families were instructed to mark their doorposts with the blood of a sacrificed lamb so that the Angel of Death would “pass over” their homes — hence the name of the holiday. Ultimately, the Pharaoh relented, allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt. They hurriedly departed, and this marked the beginning of an arduous journey to freedom — one that includes Moses parting the Red Sea to help his people escape from an approaching army and reach safety on the other side of the water.
“Passover is really the moment when the Jewish nation was formed,” Katz says. “It marks the Jews’ exodus from Egypt after centuries of slavery. It’s out of that experience — God’s redeeming the people and then bringing them to (Mount) Sinai to give them the Torah — that the Jewish existence was formed. It’s absolutely fundamental to our history.”
What is a Seder, and what does it typically include?
During the first two nights of Passover, families host what is called a Seder, or meal, which includes a retelling of the story of Exodus, ritual blessings and songs, and symbolic food and drinks. Typically, one person leads the Seder (the word “Seder” means “order” in Hebrew”), while others also participate and everyone follows along from a book called a haggadah.
“The Seder, or Passover meal, is the most celebrated event on the Jewish calendar,” Katz says. “It’s a very family-oriented, very interestingly constructed, and very happy occasion.”
The Passover meal is filled with traditions. The first, and most important, centers on matzah, a basic mixture of flour and water baked into an unleavened “flat” bread.
“We also sometimes call it the ‘bread of affliction,’” Katz says. “It can’t rise for more than 18 minutes. That’s because the Jews were in such a hurry to run away from Egypt that they didn’t take the time to bake the bread all the way to its normal level. When we eat matzah, it reminds us of the exodus from Egypt in the most visceral and fundamental way.”
Beyond matzah, a Seder menu also typically includes karpas, greens that have been dipped in salt water or vinegar (to symbolize rebirth and hope but also the tears shed to reach that moment); maror, a pungent herb used to represent the bitterness of slavery; beitzah, a roasted or hard-boiled egg that symbolizes spring and the circle of life; and charoset, a paste made of apples and nuts that is symbolic of the mortar the Jews used to build the pyramids.
Beyond the Seder — which happens the first and second nights of Passover — many people do not eat leavened bread for the entire eight days as a symbolic way of recognizing the sacrifices that took place during the exodus from Egypt.
How can you respectfully join in Passover celebrations?
The first step in embracing any holiday or tradition is learning about its history. Katz says to do some research, ask questions, and make a real effort to appreciate the significance of the day.
If you are invited to a Seder, be respectful. Dress appropriately (as you would if you were attending a place of worship), listen actively, and volunteer to help with preparations or clean-up, if needed.
Also, it’s a good idea to show your gratitude in the form of a gift, such as a bottle of kosher wine.
“However, don’t bring other items or foods without asking because you don’t want to introduce things into the home that aren’t allowed during Passover,” Katz says.
“As a child, I remember my parents used to send pieces of matzah to all the neighbors as a sign of friendship and camaraderie and to acknowledge the fact that we’re all in it together,” Katz adds.
“You can also look for Passover meals that are being hosted at churches or community centers and attend one,” he says. “That’s another great way to make a meaningful, symbolic gesture.”
Go ahead, crack open a cold one, or uncork a bottle of wine, and put your feet up. It’s a holiday, right? You deserve it — especially since the holiday you’re casually celebrating was probably a long time in the making and extremely hard won.
What is a holiday?
Although the word “holiday” derives from the term “holy day” and naturally first involved religious observances, the term is used broadly today and applies even to secular celebrations. (Some parts of the world use “holiday” to say they’re taking a vacation!)
Religious holidays like Christmas, Easter, Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Diwali are mostly self-explanatory. But America’s secular ones — the list of which is ballooning — generally commemorate important people and historic events or raise awareness about critical issues.
They also fall under specific designations. Officially speaking, holidays in the United States include “federal holidays,” “patriotic and national observances,” and “recognitions” of specific periods of time (days, weeks, or months). Others that aren’t sanctioned by religious institutions, or perhaps by any level of government, are lawfully designated as “celebrations,” “appreciations,” or “recognitions.”
What’s the difference and how do any of these days become a thing? Here’s the rundown.
Federal holidays
Only Congress can designate federal holidays, which are established under the constitutionally prescribed voting process. These are sometimes referred to as “national holidays,” but there’s really nothing national about them.
Individual states have the power to ignore federal holidays, and they’ve been doing so since 1870, when Congress approved the nation’s first set of official holidays: New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. In fact, states routinely opt out of holidays, and huge controversies have erupted over ones involving Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Columbus Day, and Juneteenth.
States can even designate their own official holidays. For instance, Massachusetts celebrates Patriots’ Day; Alaska celebrates Seward’s Day; Louisiana celebrates Mardi Gras; Illinois and Missouri celebrate Malcolm X Day; California celebrates César Chávez Day; Rhode Island celebrates Victory Day; and several states celebrate Arbor Day (it’s when you plant trees).
Nevertheless, the first four federal holidays were designated simply to exempt federal employees from work on such days. And even that exception originally applied only to the 5,300 federal workers in Washington, D.C., and not the other 50,600 stationed across the country. Not very democratic, right? This changed by 1885, and, as various states joined the party, people naturally began to think of these as “national holidays.”
There are presently 12 legal federal holidays (see graphic). The fact that Congress has only approved a dozen over 247 years of our nation’s history — and just four in the past 100 years —speaks volumes about how difficult it is to get D.C. lawmakers, of any era, to agree on anything, even holidays. You could chalk that up to federal holidays costing taxpayers more than $800 million per day off at last estimate, but it mainly has to do with the politically charged reasons our elected officials propose holidays, which don’t often play well on the national stage. Thanksgiving, our nation’s first and most original holiday, drives this point home. Although the Pilgrims first celebrated it in 1621, it took another 249 years — during which time there were some very heated debates, particularly between 1789 to 1870 — before the holiday became official.
Patriotic and national observances, and recognition periods
Like federal holidays, congressional statutory observances — known commonly as “patriotic and national observances” — can only be created by enacting laws. However, they differ from federal holidays in that they don’t provide time off for federal employees.
Similarly, permanent recognitions periods (days, weeks or months) must be enacted by law. But temporary ones can be created after being introduced as resolutions by members of the Senate or House of Representatives.
The most widely celebrated of these days are Mother’s Day, Indigenous Peoples Day, Flag Day, Patriot Day (9/11), Father’s Day, Parents’ Day, and National Grandparents Day.
Presidential proclamations
The U.S. Constitution does not specifically grant presidents the power to make proclamations — or, for that matter, executive orders. But that hasn’t prevented them from issuing loads of both.
Proclamations are mostly ceremonial orders that sometimes result in laws and that often include “commemoration” days, weeks, or months. George Washington’s first proclamation in 1789 honored Thanksgiving, and he repeated the act six years later. Lincoln also issued a Thanksgiving proclamation in 1863 — but none of these had the force of law. Recent examples range from George H.W. Bush’s serious proclamation to honor veterans of World War II to Ronald Reagan’s lighthearted and beloved National Ice Cream Month (July).
Presidents have also proclaimed holidays for the funerals of other presidents, most recently for Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Gerald Ford. But proclamations have most prominently been used to establish national heritage months, including Black History Month (February), Women’s History Month (March), Irish American Heritage Month (March), Jewish American Heritage Month (May), LGBTQ+ Pride Month (June), Hispanic Latino Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15), and Native American Heritage Month (November), among others.
Celebrations, appreciations, commercially driven observances, and “hashtag” holidays
The growing list of what we now commonly refer to as holidays are more technically designated as “celebrations,” “appreciations,” or “awareness” periods. Examples of those that are not religious in origin or federally backed include Groundhog Day (Feb. 2), April Fools’ Day (April 1), Earth Day (April 22), Friendship Day (Aug. 7), Boss’ Day (first working day nearest Oct. 16), and Administrative Professionals’ Day (Wednesday of the last full week of April). The latter four of these originated in the U.S. and have become popular international observances.
Some popular holidays are purely commercially driven promotional opportunities that are sometimes referred to as “Hallmark holidays” or “shopping holidays.” Specific commercial examples include 7-Eleven Day (7/11) and American Express’ Small Business Saturday (Saturday after Thanksgiving). Broader-themed ones include Sweetest Day (third Saturday in October), Black Friday (Friday after Thanksgiving), Cyber Monday (Monday after Thanksgiving), and Giving Tuesday (Tuesday after Thanksgiving).
Some holidays are Hollywood creations that have captured the public’s imagination and are either celebrated ironically, as is the case with The O.C.’s “Chrismukkah” (Dec. 10) and Seinfeld’s “Festivus” (Dec. 23), or with explosive enthusiasm, such as Parks and Recreation’s “Galentine’s Day” (Feb. 13). The latter, a Valentine’s Day alternative for women to celebrate their female friendships, has become so popular that it already has its own customs and growing selection of merchandise and greeting cards.
“Friendsgiving,” which is a Thanksgiving meal celebrated among friends, is another example. Despite the popular myth, the compound word was never used in any of the memorable Thanksgiving episodes of Friends. It has been traced to a minor 2007 internet post but went mainstream in 2011 after it was used in a Bailey’s Irish Cream campaign and an episode of The Real Housewives of New Jersey.
Then there are what’s termed “hashtag holidays” — thousands of them, in fact, that are mostly internet driven and sustained annually using social media hashtags. There’s literally something for everyone, appealing to all manner of passions and interests. A good deal of the well-recognized ones are known collectively as “geek days,” the growing list of which includes Pi Day (3/14), Star Wars Day (May 4, as in “May the fourth be with you”) and the accompanying next day “Revenge of the Fifth” (May 5, which is also Cinco de Mayo), Hobbit Day (Sept. 22), Star Trek Federation Day (Aug. 12), Batman Day (Sept. 16), and Fibonacci Day (11/23).
Not to be outdone by the intelligentsia, foodies have established a veritable smorgasbord of holidays dedicated to specific foods and their ethnic origins, beverages, diets, and even cooking traditions. Some of the most popular ones are National Wine Day (May 25), National Cheese Day (June 4), and National Chocolate Day (Oct. 28).
Are there any holidays we no longer celebrate?
Whether religious or secular in nature, holidays come and go, and that’s true even for a nation as young as the United States. Many holidays that were celebrated in pre-colonial and colonial America were long forgotten by Lincoln’s time. That’s because Puritan religious holidays were intended as subdued days of solemn prayer, and the few remaining secular ones centered squarely on work.
The infamous Maypole
That was intentional. Life was extremely difficult back then, in part due to the harsh winters, and a day off could very well threaten survival. Even Christmas and Easter were originally eschewed as potential distractions that could also invite ostentatiousness and encourage public drunkenness.
Instead, New Englanders eagerly celebrated harvest days, such as Sheep Shearing Day, Corn Husking Day, Maple Syrup Making Day, and Apple Peeling Day. One big holiday was Forefathers Day (Dec. 22), which honored those who risked their lives to travel to the New World on the Mayflower.
Virginia colonists especially enjoyed May Day (May 1), a spring celebration of nature’s rebirth that involved erecting a tall pole, “the Maypole,” which colonists decorated with flowers and danced around. Not to be forgotten was the three-day Christian celebration of All Hallows’ Eve (Oct. 31) — Halloween by the 19th century — through All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2).
Another well-celebrated holiday was Candlemas Day (Feb. 2), which involved a feast and the lighting of holy candles in prayer. But it became far more popular later on as the secular Groundhog Day thanks to English and German immigrants who began using the day to push a bit of folklore about the rodent’s weather-forecasting abilities.
National Day Calendar: the internet’s holiday gatekeeper
Keeping track of these special days, weeks, and months, and establishing thousands more, is largely the responsibility of the National Day Calendar, the popular website that is a kind of self-appointed arbiter of fun days.
For decades, that duty had been the sole province of Chase’s Calendar of Events, the stately chronicler of more than 10,500 special occasions whose annual reference volume remains a staple of newsrooms everywhere. But beginning around 2017, just four years after the National Day Calendar was established, the team brought holiday making into the digital age, taking full advantage of the world wide web and social media to push the company’s cheerful mission (and motto) to “Celebrate Every Day.”
“We spread positivity around the world and take pride in the fact we put smiles on people’s faces every day,” says company CEO Amy Monette. That’s not just a marketing ploy. She and her small team of “event makers” are practically giddy about putting new celebrations on the calendar — roughly 1,700 “National Days” on the calendar and close to 3,500 overall days, weeks, and months, which are designated “National Days.”
Anyone can propose a holiday at the National Day Calendar. In fact, the staff receives thousands of proposals each month, and it’s committed to reviewing and responding to every one. Competition is extremely stiff. Only about 30 to 35 holidays are approved each year — up from 25 a few years ago — and that only happens by way of a unanimous vote from a four-member committee.
“What we consider a ‘good’ submission varies and depends on the topic,” Monette says. “There are fun topics, serious topics, informative topics, iconic topics, and so forth. However, I think all of us subconsciously think about whether something is unique, will trend well on social media, and has an important message.”
Why not celebrate National Coffee Day and National Cookie Day (which is Dec. 4, by the way) at the same time?
Politics is a definite no-no, as is “anything that could be considered offensive or harmful if celebrated,” Monette explains. Brand-specific days, such as National Starbucks Day, are non-starters; National Coffee Day (Sept. 29), however, not only gives coffee lovers an extra reason to imbibe and get together but also provides coffee sellers with an annual promotional opportunity. You’re certainly welcome to propose a celebration day to honor your amazing brother or sister, but it wouldn’t fly — National Siblings Day (April 10) already serves that purpose.
So, which days are Monette’s favorites? The chief celebrations officer confesses to being particularly fond of National Sangria Day (Dec. 20) and National Pizza Day (Feb. 9), the latter of which she considers a “food group.” But her secret passion seems to be National Talk Like a Pirate Day (Sept. 19), which improbably captured the public’s imagination ever since its launch in 1995. “I wanted to be a pirate and hunt for treasures when I was a kid,” Monette says, laughing. “Talk Like a Pirate Day makes me giggle and reminds me of how lucky I am not to have chosen that career path.”
A juicy and flavorful turkey. Countless sides. Endless sweet and savory pies. A full day and night of football. Spending the day with the people you love.
Thanksgiving is America’s favorite holiday, with a whopping 79% popularity rating. So, it’s no wonder you’re asking the question: When is Thanksgiving this year? If you’re like us, you just can’t wait for the day to arrive!
But before you begin looking up recipes, basting any birds, or making other seasonal preparations, check out our extensive handbook for the holiday, which answers your most pressing Thanksgiving-related questions.
When was the first Thanksgiving?
Based on a letter from a Plymouth, Massachusetts, colonist that mentions the Pilgrims celebrating their first robust corn and barley harvest, November 1621 is thought to be the holiday’s official start.
The first Thanksgiving? Not quite.
A few more fun facts about Thanksgiving:
While debate exists over whether the event involved a meal to acknowledge thankfulness, if the participants did, in fact, dine together, they could have had turkey; the colonist’s letter mentions hunting fowl.
During this time period, large feasts often included wild game. This was a popular autumnal dish in the Pilgrims’ homeland of England that was frequently served stuffed, according to author and food historian Sarah Wassberg Johnson, who runs the website The Food Historian. The British also traditionally paired game meats with sour fruit sauce and jelly garnishes, which means cranberries could have been served alongside the bird.
Although pumpkin pie likely wasn’t served at the 1621 event, pumpkin made its way into a number of dishes during the time period, including cornbread, soups, and desserts, such as custards and pies. This is due in part to the fact that pumpkins grew well in New England and could be kept for a long time in storage, Wassberg Johnson says.
Live exotic animals, such as tigers, bears, and elephants, were featured in the first three Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades between 1924 and 1926. The event’s iconic large balloons didn’t debut until 1927, when a nearly two-story-high Felix the Cat floated above the parade route on Thanksgiving Day.
Why is Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November?
President George Washington issued a public decree in 1789 for a day of thanksgiving, and in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November would be a national day of Thanksgiving.
We have the 32nd president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt, to thank for the holiday’s current calendar spot. In 1941, as the U.S. recovered from the Great Depression, the last Thursday of November fell on the final day of the month, Nov. 30. To elongate the Christmas shopping season, Roosevelt established the official Thanksgiving holiday date as the fourth Thursday in November.
Is Thanksgiving celebrated in other countries?
Nine other countries celebrate some form of Thanksgiving. Of those, three have events that are similar to the U.S. holiday.
Some features of Canada’s Thanksgiving and America’s are alike. Both, for instance, involve turkey. The Great White North’s celebration, though, is older, reportedly dating back to 1578. Its annual date also differs, taking place on the second Monday in October.
Liberia, a West African nation established by former slaves who came from America in 1847, celebrates Thanksgiving also in November but on the first Thursday of the month. The holiday is similar to the American version, with celebrations ranging from a lavish meal to simply taking the day off work.
Locals in Norfolk Island, a sparsely populated Australian territory in between Australia and New Zealand, reportedly picked up the Thanksgiving tradition after a U.S. trader held a holiday celebration at a church when visiting in the late 1800s. Islanders now serve a mix of dishes that include pork, chicken, and bananas on the last Wednesday of November. As in the U.S., residents finish their meal with pumpkin pie.
What is Friendsgiving?
Hosting a pre-holiday dinner for friends, often the weekend before Thanksgiving, is a new tradition called Friendsgiving. This unofficial holiday has seen its popularity rise in recent years, especially among millennials and other young adults.
Often involving a more casual meal than the one served on the actual holiday, Friendsgiving has no hard-and-fast rules. Whether you invite people over for light bites or a full meal, setting out an elegant — yet simple to assemble — charcuterie board, paired with several wines that are offered in a self-serve or tasting format, can be a festive start.
What day is Thanksgiving this year?
In 2024, Thanksgiving will be Thursday, Nov. 28. Next year, the holiday will be on Nov. 27, and in 2026, Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Nov. 26.
What are some traditional activities to do on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a day steeped in tradition. Participating in an organized road race in the morning (often called a “turkey trot”), watching parades and football, and going out in the community to help others are just a few of the activities we typically do on this day.
Other ways to celebrate Thanksgiving are by making crafts and DIY decor. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Event planner Annemarie Schumacher, principal and owner of PR and event services company Schumacher Creative, who also blogs about home entertaining, recommends inviting guests at least one month beforehand to allow time to confirm how many will be attending.
“Based on the number of people you are hosting, pull together your menu and shopping list at least two weeks prior to turkey day,” Schumacher says. “This will help you avoid any last-minute omissions.”
At least a week before the event, check to make sure you have the necessary number of plates, chairs, utensils, and other items, she advises. If you are short, consider looking into leasing what you need.
“Utilizing rentals can be an essential but frequently overlooked part of Thanksgiving planning,” Schumacher says. “You can also rent linens, such as tablecloths and napkins, [and] silverware and glassware. It’s a great option that typically isn’t a huge investment and can be well worth the price.”
What are some popular Thanksgiving dishes?
Food is an essential part of Thanksgiving. The meal we sit down to on the fourth Thursday of November is one of the most beloved — and highly anticipated — of the year.
Traditional Thanksgiving foods include:
Turkey
Mashed potatoes
Sweet potatoes
Cranberry sauce
Green bean casserole
Stuffing
Gravy
Rolls
But it doesn’t end there. After the meal, get ready for the dessert course, which typically consists of a variety of pies, cakes, and pastries, including:
Pumpkin pie
Pecan pie
Apple pie
Sweet potato pie
Cheesecake
Cookies
Brownies
Above all, though, the purpose of Thanksgiving is right there in the name — to give thanks. And to help get you in that spirit, here are 79 quotes about gratitude.
Purim is a Jewish holiday based on historical events that took place in ancient Persia about the 5th century B.C. An evil advisor to King Ahasuerus named Haman wanted to kill all the Jews. His plan was foiled by the king’s new wife, Esther, when she told her husband that she, too, was Jewish and got him to see the humanity in everyone. The plan was devised by her uncle, Mordechai, who, along with his niece, is celebrated as a hero of Purim.
Purim in Hebrew means “lots,” like the kind you’d draw for a lottery. The term was coined in the scroll that tells of the story of Purim and dates back to the time the events happened. The word “lots” refers to the circumstances surrounding the history of the holiday, in which fate seemed to draw a horrible lot for Persia’s Jews. But, in a miraculous reversal, what seemed like certain doom turned into a celebration: The villain was punished, and love ultimately won.
The official holiday of gift baskets
Any holiday with gift baskets has our attention. One of the sweetest Purim traditions is sending care packages, called “mishloach manot” in Hebrew, to friends and relatives. With the season for warm socks and sweaters behind us, a gift basket of food makes the perfect gift. We happen to have many to chose from.
Traditionally, everyone (of proper drinking age) drinks alcohol on Purim — to the point where you’re not supposed to be able to tell the difference between Haman and Mordechai. (We don’t recommend doing this.) The drink of choice is usually wine, so grab a bottle of something you love and celebrate Purim with all your Jewish friends and allies.
Kids get loud
If you thought the practice of booing was invented by sports fans, think again. Purim is all about booing the evil Haman. Traditionally, the story of Purim is read out loud from a special scroll (appropriately named Esther’s Scroll). Every time you hear Haman’s name, you’re supposed to shake a specific noisemaker called a grogger as hard as you can. Kids love it, but adults are welcome to use the grogger too, of course. They’re easy to make. Check out this step-by-step guide from Make It Jewish.
Dressing up in costumes
Jews dress up in fun costumes on Purim. This tradition stems from Queen Esther having to first disguise her identity until she could trust the king to learn the truth about Haman’s intentions.
Historical re-enactments
Purim is a great holiday for theater kids. The miraculous survival of the entire people and a story involving treachery, benevolence, colorful characters, and shocking plot twists are the perfect excuse for a creative re-enactment. These performances are known as spiels, and usually have a comedic bent to them. Look for a theatre company in your area that’s putting one on and support the troupe (and the tribe)!
A triangle cookie?
Jews eat triangle-shaped cookies on Purim called hamantaschen. But why? The most common explanation is that the evil Haman had very distinctive “triangular” ears, and eating the cookies is a way to celebrate the defeat of his evil plan. (In Israel, these cookies are called oznei haman, which means “Haman’s ears.”)
Traditionally, they can be made from either hard or soft dough, with the edges folded toward the middle, making the outside look like a triangle. They are usually filled with sweet poppy seeds or preserves. A simple recipe is to make chocolate chip cookie dough, and then shape it into triangles and fill them with various jams.
Ready to party for Purim?
Some communities read the story of Purim written in the Scroll of Esther, some pray as well, and others simply party. Keep in mind that Jewish holidays start the previous day at nightfall. This year, Purim begins at sundown on March 6 and continues until sundown the next day. It’s the perfect chance to send gift baskets, fulfill the “drinking and dressing-up-in-costumes” part of the holiday, and still get plenty of sleep before the next major Jewish holiday. (Hint, it’s the one with the matzoh.)
Call me crazy, but I like to work. I like the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a project; I like the idea that every challenge comes with an opportunity to learn a new skill; and I like that I can earn a living doing something I enjoy — particularly when I’m recognized for a job well done.
Appreciation any time is always a good investment in your employees — and it makes a difference.
Bonnie Ferguson, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Human resources director for gourmet foods & gift baskets
1-800-Flowers.com
Like many longtime professionals, I’ve worked in different industries for a variety of companies. And in my experience, most people, irrespective of title, position, or chosen field, like to feel appreciated for their contributions in the workplace. In fact, a 2022 report shows that workers who receive employer recognition that meets their expectations are four times as likely to be engaged in their jobs and 56% less likely to seek out new job opportunities. Another statistic shows that a third of full-time professionals cited a lack of support or recognition from leadership as a leading cause of burnout — even among those who said they were passionate about their jobs.
But why risk isolating highly skilled and qualified employees when these people are truly the backbone of every organization? With today’s rapidly changing global economy, there’s never been a better time for companies to make more of an effort to recognize their employees’ contributions.
What is the history of Employee Appreciation Day?
Celebrated annually on the first Friday of March, Employee Appreciation Day was created in 1995 by Dr. Bob Nelson, author of “1,001 Ways to Reward Employees” and a founding member of Recognition Professionals International. To help promote the book, Dr. Nelson and the publisher, Workman Publishing, launched an effort to get Employee Appreciation Day added to printed calendars. Thus began a campaign that encouraged companies to use the day as an opportunity to formally recognize and reward their hard-working staff.
“Employee Appreciation Day began as a causal, nice thing to do. Today, it’s recognized by many leading companies as another way to connect with employees,” says Bonnie Ferguson, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, human resources director for gourmet foods & gift baskets at 1-800-Flowers.com. “Often, it is considered a part of their employee engagement strategy, and in today’s market, that is an important focus. Appreciation allows employees to see that their employer recognizes the value they bring to the table.”
Ferguson notes that workers who feel valued tend to go the extra mile, which benefits the organization as a whole. “It really makes a difference,” she says. “Appreciation plays a key role in engagement, culture, and creating a great place to work.” Moreover, according to the aforementioned 2022 report, by prioritizing employee recognition and appreciation, companies can improve their own talent pool thanks to positive employee referrals. It’s a win-win for everybody.
So, how can companies show authentic appreciation to employees in ways that feel genuine and not simply performative? “A successful Employee Appreciation Day is one that communicates ‘Thanks for all you do’ and shows appreciation for every team member in a special way,” Ferguson says. “It’s not about checking the box but rather doing something fun, genuine, and relatable for the employees.”
“Anything that is a ‘surprise and delight’ moment goes over really well,” Ferguson says. “For example, having an item on everyone’s desk with a note of appreciation when they come in, leaders taking the time to call an employee or stopping by to say thanks, a banner in the work area, a fun video message…you name it.”
Here are five other unique ways to recognize employees for their hard work.
1. Bonus day off
Give employees an extra day off with pay, or offer their birthday as a floating holiday. Nothing boosts morale and productivity like time spent with loved ones — or by themselves! — to rest, reset, and recharge.
2. Out-of-office fun day
Treat your staff to a day trip or another enjoyable excursion. Whether it be to a trampoline park, escape room, roller rink, or day of mini-golf and arcade games, fun activities help people disconnect from the stress of the office while letting their co-workers see their more playful sides.
3. In-office activities
Host a day of fun on the clock by setting up areas for board games, arts and crafts, cheese tastings, and other activities. Then, schedule times when employees can rotate through each station.
Give your team members gift cards to a local restaurant and movie theater so they can enjoy an evening out with their friends or family — courtesy of the company. Or have a “movie afternoon” at the office where you set up a projector in a conference room and bring in catering.
5. Play ball
Softball, paintball, pickleball, table tennis. Poll your team to determine which one they’d most enjoy, and then plan an outing accordingly. Make it as competitive or non-competitive as you’d like.
Parting thought
Don’t limit expressions of gratitude to just one day a year. You don’t need an elaborate plan or budget to pick up the phone or send an e-mail and let an employee know how much you appreciate them, especially when they’ve gone the extra mile, worked overtime, or done something above and beyond to support the company’s goals and mission. Says Ferguson, “Appreciation any time is always a good investment in your employees — and it makes a difference.”
We all know that Valentine’s Day is about love and relationships, red hearts, and flowers. But how did it become the giant celebration that it is today? The answer lies in a unique journey, from a third-century Christian martyr to modern-day technology.
The history of Valentine’s Day is long and rich, filled with mystery and lore. Though some of today’s recognizable traditions can be traced back to the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day got its big boost in the last 200 years, thanks to postal and printing improvements, mechanical innovations, and sophisticated marketing.
Let’s explore the origins of this beloved day of romance and affection.
St. Valentine and love, from ancient times to today
A stained-glass window depicting Saint Valentine.
There are two primary theories about the identity of St. Valentine. One is that in the third century A.D. a young priest named Valentine was imprisoned for aiding persecuted Christians and refusing to deny his faith to the Roman emperor Claudius. He also helped young men secretly marry their sweethearts, therefore avoiding conscription into the pagan army. For these crimes, Valentine was killed on Feb. 14 in 269 A.D.
The second theory points to Valentine, bishop of Terni, who was martyred at around the same time for attempting to convert Romans to Christianity when it was still considered a cult faith.
Just over 200 years later, in 496 A.D., Pope Gelasius I acknowledged the martyr (whichever one he was) and named Feb. 14 as a feast day. Saint Valentine became the patron saint of engaged couples, happy marriages, and, oddly enough, beekeeping, among other things.
The legend of St. Valentine and his romantic mission thrived throughout the Middle Ages. February continued to be associated with romance and fertility, although theories on why differ. Some claim that the church overlaid Valentine’s Day onto the pagan feast of Lupercalia to discourage the ancient rite of sacrifice. Others point to none other than Geoffrey Chaucer, who set the mood for love in 1375 when he penned “The Parlement of Foules.” This poem made mention of St. Valentine’s Day and mating birds, connecting the notion of courtly love with the February feast day for the first time.
Sending love: The power of the post
Likely the biggest accelerator to the adoption of Valentine’s Day, at least for the inhabitants of England, was the postal reform of 1840. Before that, sending a letter was costly and arbitrary, and only the affluent could afford any regular correspondence. Thanks largely to the efforts of reformer Rowland Hill, Queen Victoria approved a measure to adopt an adhesive stamp that cost one penny, good for any letter or card sent for any distance within the UK.
Sending Valentine’s Day cards began in England, but the practice soon spread to the United States, Australia, and beyond. Around 1848, Esther Howland of Worcester, Massachusetts, began a homebased business making elaborate Valentine’s Day cards, hiring local women and selling them through her family’s stationery shop. By 1881, when it was purchased by a competitor, the New England Valentine Company had its own factory and sold many thousands of cards until its closure in 1942 due to war shortages.
Today, more than 145 million cards are exchanged in person and through the mail on Valentine’s Day. And who knows how many e-cards make their way across the interwebs this time of year?!
A Valentine’s card from around the turn of the 20th century.
World’s oldest written valentines
Early messages of love relied on poetry and romantic verses more than fancy decorative embellishments. The oldest surviving Valentine’s letter was penned by Charles Duke of Orléans supposedly to his wife, Bonne of Armagnac, in 1415 while he was imprisoned in England. The letter was never sent and, in fact, is considered by some to be an impersonal tribute to courtly love. Because of that, the oldest surviving Valentine’s letter award might go to Margery Brews, a noblewoman who wrote to her betrothed in 1477.
The world’s oldest Valentine’s card, believed to be sent in 1797, sold at auction in 2019 for £7,000, or about $8,500 U.S. dollars. Jakki Brown, editor and co-owner of a greeting card trade magazine in London, bought the card and vowed never to sell it.
The message on the front reads: “Farewell you sweet and turtle dove. On you alone, I fixed my love. And if you never can be mine, I never can no comfort find!”
Flowers and candy
The act of giving Valentine’s Day flowers began around the turn of the 18th century. The custom is often attributed to King Charles XII of Sweden, who learned of the language of flowers while on a trip to Persia and brought it back with him to share with his subjects. The most popular type of flower for this occasion is the rose. Considered the favorite of the love goddess Venus, the rose, and, in particular, the red rose, conveyed passion.
Today, the selection expands to other flowers and colors depending on the relationship of giver and recipient. A bouquet of mixed flowers, such as roses and carnations, is a good way to express your admiration in a more restrained way. You can also choose other flowers in white or yellow; the former represents purity and simplicity, the latter friendship.
About a century after flowers became a customary gift, another development would change the face of Valentine’s Day forever. The Spaniards introduced chocolate to Europe in the 1500s, but it wasn’t until the late 1700s, and the invention of the steam engine, that mass production of the luscious treat became possible.
Today, Americans alone purchase about 58 million pounds of chocolate for Valentine’s Day. The myth of chocolate being an aphrodisiac is well known; however, it may actually act as an acceptable substitute for love, according to one study.
School exchanges
Growing up in 20th century America, the average kid was well acquainted with Valentine’s Day through the ritual of classroom card exchanges. The beloved practice of purchasing a box of Valentine’s Day cards and giving one to each classmate (and sometimes the teacher), often with those pastel-colored conversation hearts, has murky origins but grew in earnest in the 1930s and ’40s.
Thanks to affordable little cards that were printed on perforated stock, the tradition of making little mailboxes and slipping a valentine in the slot grew more popular with each succeeding generation. In recent years, cards have come to depict popular licensed characters, movies, and toys.
Some schools have begun to celebrate Valentine’s Day in ways that are more inclusive and less about spending money. Activities such as writing letters of appreciation to family members, raising money for charity, and creating handmade art in conjunction with the popular 100 Days school event (like making a collage of 100 things they love) are beginning to take root.
Valentine’s Day is nigh, and soon we’ll be awash in cupids and hearts, and all things red, pink, white, and frilly. Romantics the world over relish this day dedicated to love through the gifting of flowers, Valentine’s Day candy and other keepsakes. The fact that it’s a nationally recognized “cheat day,” where the consumption of sweets is highly encouraged, is simply a bonus.
But how did hearts, arrows, and roses come to reflect Valentine’s Day in the first place? Let’s explore the origins and meanings of these and other Valentine’s Day symbols, which are as varied as a heart-shaped box of assorted chocolates.
Origin and meaning of 8 Valentine’s Day symbols
Handmade notes and cards
The history of Valentine’s Day dates to ancient times; however, it was first declared a celebration of romantic love in 15th century France. It’s no surprise, then, that one of the earliest Valentine letters was written in 1415 by the imprisoned French Duke of Orleans to his bride, Isabella, expressing his love for his “gentle valentine.” Other surviving notes of this period reference love and valentines in tandem, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that presenting handmade notes to romantic partners became a widespread means of marking the occasion.
The Victorians stepped up the Valentine’s game even further by creating ornate handmade cards embellished with hearts, cupids, ribbons, bows, and other flourishes. This tradition endured until the Industrial Revolution and the advent of printing technologies resulted in the proliferation of mass-produced cards. Commercial card manufacturer Hallmark printed its first Valentine’s Day card in 1913, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The heart
Theories abound over how the heart symbol — a universally recognized icon of love — came to be. Aristotle posited that the heart is the container of human passions. He also believed, erroneously, that the human heart contained three chambers — a left, right, and middle — and this may have led to misinterpreted renderings of its shape that resulted in the symbol we know today.
A more plausible theory, however, centers on a long-extinct herb called silphium, whose seed pod shape consisted of two rounded adjoining tops that curved to form a single point at the base of the stem. Ancient Romans harvested the plant, which they used for its medicinal properties as well as a method of contraception; the herb — and its shape — thereby became associated with fertility, which, reinterpreted over time, evolved as a symbol of love.
Cupid, and his bow and arrow
Walk through any art museum in the world, and you’re likely to find sculptures and paintings that feature Cupid, the Roman god of love, whose lore originated in Greek mythology as Eros, the god of love and desire. While Eros was oft depicted as a potent young adult male, Cupid emerged during the Renaissance as a cherubic, flush-faced infant with wings and tousled hair. It’s this little guy — a bow and arrow-filled satchel slung over his shoulder — who continues to get top billing on Valentine’s Day.
A hopeful and sometimes mischievous matchmaker, Cupid shoots his arrow at the intended couple; the pierce rouses love and passion between the pair, leading to a lifelong relationship. So, when people are said to have been “shot by Cupid’s arrow,” it means they have fallen in love.
Doves
A quintessential emblem of peace, the dove is also a symbol of romantic love and monogamy thanks, in part, to its habit of mating with only one partner in a season. Male doves actively participate in the caring of the couple’s offspring, which has built them a rep for being loyal and devoted helpmates. Aphrodite and Venus, the goddesses of love in Greek and Roman mythology, respectively, were often portrayed in the company of doves, which further affirms the bird’s standing as an appropriate Valentine’s Day motif.
Red, pink, and white roses
As with many other Valentine’s Day icons, the red rose can be traced back to the goddesses of love, Aphrodite and Venus. According to Greek mythology, roses grew from the ground sprinkled with Aphrodite’s tears that merged with the blood of her lover, Adonis, who died in her arms. Traditionally, red signifies passion and desire, which is why red roses are also one of the most popular Valentine’s Day blooms.
Pink represents love of the self and others, as well as friendship, whereas white represents purity and innocence — all qualities linked to love and desire. To be clear, there’s no wrong color when it comes to Valentine’s Day roses — and no wrong flower, for that matter — so don’t be shy if you’d prefer to send your significant other a more colorful bouquet.
Knots
Knots have enjoyed symbolic significance for centuries in both pagan and religious ceremonies across cultures. The phrase “tying the knot” was coined from the ancient ritual of handfasting, wherein a couple’s hands were bound together in braided cloth, or knots, during marriage and betrothal ceremonies. The “binding” of the couple together through knots represented their lifelong commitment to each other. Today, knots and bows on Valentine’s cards and candy boxes pay homage to this early custom.
Chocolate
A heart-shaped box of chocolate is to Valentine’s Day what eggnog is to Christmas — they are both wildly popular and you rarely see them at any other time of year.
Unlike some other traditions that date back thousands of years, the gifting of chocolate at Valentine’s Day originated in the Victorian era thanks to none other than Richard Cadbury, of the Cadbury chocolate empire. In the 1840s, the Cadbury company honed its chocolate manufacturing skills to a science, prompting an increase in chocolate production for everyday consumption — a relatively new concept at the time. A marketing genius ahead of his time, Cadbury designed aesthetically pleasing boxes in which to package and sell the delicious confections.
The scheme worked. Soon, the heart-shaped box, which Cadbury is believed to have invented, came into being for Valentine’s Day. Because the boxes were so beautifully adorned, consumers were encouraged to keep theirs long after the candy was gone as containers in which to preserve love notes and special keepsakes. Today, Victorian-era Cadbury boxes are a collectible.
Candy hearts
Speaking of candy, no article about Valentine’s Day symbols would be complete without a mention of those pastel-colored, sugary-sweet chalky conversation hearts. Embossed with syrupy phrases like “Be mine,” “Kiss me,” and “You shine,” this candy developed as the unintended product of a plan to invent a new throat lozenge.
In 1847, Boston pharmacist Oliver Chase, looking for a more efficient way to manufacture lozenges, developed new technology to mass-produce lozenge dough into wafers. Seeing the opportunity to do something bigger — and potentially more lucrative — Chase instead launched the New England Confectionary Company and began producing the wafers as a sweet treat. Chase’s brother, Daniel, recognized a growing trend in Valentine’s cards and soon figured out a way to print messages on the wafer candies. A few years later, the company began cutting the wafers into heart shapes. As the company grew, the size of the candy wafer shrunk, but it still leads the way as one of the most recognizable symbols of Valentine’s Day.
The arrival of February is marked by several obvious signs. Store shelves overflow with heart-shaped candies. Everywhere you look, couples passionately embrace on street corners, as love fills the air. And nary a commercial goes by that doesn’t feature a stunning piece of jewelry.
February may be synonymous with a handful of events — there’s that big football game that is contested during the first week or two of the month — but none is more popular than Valentine’s (sorry, leap day). As the most romantic day of the year, our societal fixation on the day of love makes sense — after all, whose heart doesn’t beat a little faster when thinking about the one they adore?
The jovial spirit and lovey-dovey passion of Valentine’s only account for a fraction of what there is to know about this holiday, however. The financial, historic, religious, and other factors that helped establish this day and continue to power it forward are captivating, and may even reshape your perception of Valentine’s.
Whether you are single and ready to mingle or happily coupled up, read on for some fascinating Valentine’s facts.
History of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day has its roots in a man named Valentine. Or two men. Let’s explain.
One origin story tells of a third-century priest named Valentine who lived in Rome. The emperor at the time was Claudius II, who, hoping to make young men better soldiers, outlawed marriage. Valentine, recognizing the unfairness of this decree, secretly continued to marry youthful couples. When his defiance was discovered, he was put to death.
Another features a man named Valentine who was imprisoned and later killed for helping Christians escape captivity in the torturous Roman prisons. This Valentine penned the first Valentine’s card when, from jail and before his death, he sent his jailer’s daughter, who secretly brought him food, a love letter and signed it “From your Valentine,” thus beginning a tradition we embrace to this day.
Valentine’s facts by the numbers
The history of Valentine’s is one of myth and legend, but the modern-day numbers associated with the holiday are anything but — though they are no less unbelievable. While it comes as no surprise that people exchange a lot of gifts and spend an exorbitant amount of money on Valentine’s, the actual figures may just blow your mind.
Americans spent approximately $25.9 billion (yes, with a “B”) on Valentine’s-related purchases in 2023. That number is projected to be $25.8 billion in 2024.
No Valentine’s is complete without flowers. Whether you are a traditionalist and always opt for a bouquet of red roses or a creative spirit who prefers a unique smattering of unconventional blooms, this is the perfect opportunity to express your personality and affection. No matter what floral route you embrace, one thing is certain — your crush will cherish your token of love.
Thirty-nine percent of people anticipated buying flowers for Valentine’s in 2024. The total spend on those flowers was expected to be $2.6 billion.
Men are far more likely to buy flowers or plants than women — 60% to 33%, respectively.
Roses are the most popular Valentine’s flower, with over 250 million produced exclusively for the holiday each year. Of those who planned to buy flowers for Valentine’s 2024, 70% said they’d be buying roses.
Best Valentine’s flowers
While roses dominate the top spot on the Valentine’s Day flower power rankings, many other beautiful blooms make superb gifts for your special someone. If you are looking for some of the best, most romantic blossoms for your loved one, here’s a roundup of some popular holiday picks.
With blossoms as grand as your love, lilies make wonderful Valentine’s gifts. Choose from several shades to find the ideal color to complement your other gifts and appeal to your better half.
Valentine’s is the time to express all those sweet feelings you have toward your partner, and what better way to do that than with bright, showy sunflowers? After all, your love brings warmth and joy just like the sun!
Unmistakable blossom structures are a hallmark of orchids, the 2023 Flower of the Year. Featuring distinctive color patterns, these fun flowers truly stand out from their petaled counterparts.
Daisies, with their petals spread wide like they are waiting for an embrace, are both delicate and charming. Classic white blooms are most common, but you can grace your Valentine’s bouquet with a variety of colors.
Like giant puffs of joy, hydrangeas bloom in round groups, making them full and impressive. They also come in a wide variety of colors, giving you several ways to suit your valentine’s preferences.
Typically filled with jelly beans, marshmallow chicks, chocolate bunnies, and small toys, the Easter basket is part of many Americans’ childhoods. But how did this tradition become part of a day on which Christians celebrate Jesus’ resurrection?
The answer dates to Anglo-Saxon folklore. Historians believe that the word “Easter” derives from “Eostre,” the pagan goddess of spring and fertility. Drawings of Eostre often depict her holding a woven basket on her arm. Eggs, which have been considered a sign of new life in many cultures, were eaten and even buried as part of the Eostre festival.
The hare or rabbit also is a symbol of fertility in Western culture. By the early 17th century, some German parents began telling their children stories of the Osterhase (Easter Hare) delivering colored eggs to the baskets of well-behaved children. As part of this tradition, children left small nests or baskets lined with grasses to look like nests left outside overnight for the Osterhase.
Another theory of the origin of the Easter basket comes from the early medieval Catholic church. Worshipers brought baskets of food with them to church to be blessed by the priest as part of the celebration of the end of Lent.
Many of the other secular traditions connected with Easter — such as candy eggs, the Easter egg hunt, the Easter parade, and sending Easter cards — began in earnest in the Victorian era.
Today, Easter is second only to Halloween in terms of U.S. candy sales, and it is the fourth most popular day for sending greeting cards, behind Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day.
How to celebrate Easter with your kids
Some Christian parents may worry that celebrating a religious holiday with Easter baskets might diminish its underlying meaning. However, several experts think the sacred and the secular can co-exist.
“I think physical gifts can be great metaphors for the intangible ones,” says Laurens Glass, who has written for United Methodist Communications for the past 11 years.
“It’s great to receive something fun like toys or candy, but they can be reminders of the great gifts we enjoy that don’t fit in the basket — our pets, our family, our friends, our food and home, our creativity, our talents, our ability to help others, to share,” she says
“When it comes to Easter baskets, I say do them if you want to do them, but make sure Easter means far more to your kids than a basket!” says Heather Pace, a mother and blogger at Truth4Women.com.
Pace suggests Christian parents focus on the meaning of the resurrection during the weeks leading up to Easter. “Your kids should highly anticipate this day because they know Dad and Mom think it’s of utmost importance!”
In addition to candy treats, such as jelly beans, chocolate eggs and bunnies, and marshmallow chicks, many parents add plush animals, small toys, games, and books to their children’s baskets. Easter baskets aren’t just for the young, however. Teens and adults like to get in the fun with everything from gardening and cooking supplies to sporting goods — and candy, of course — in their Easter baskets.
Many people choose a colorful chosen basket to hold their Easter goodies, and they frequently line the bottom with plastic “grass” with a nod to the nest of the Osterhase legend. A growing trend is to make the Easter basket look more natural with a base of real grass and accents of twigs and fresh flowers.
Grass seed, especially the ryegrass variety, grows quickly. You could have a nice patch of green grass growing in your soil-filled Easter basket within five days. Then, you can easily trim the grass with scissors to the length you’d like for Easter Sunday morning.
“Easter activities offer parents and children opportunities for conversations,” says Joe Iovino, communications manager for United Methodist Church. In other words, no matter how you celebrate Easter, it’s a holiday meant to be enjoyed with loved ones.
Easter is Sunday, March 31, 2024. Near or far, send Easter flowers and gifts to stay close to family and friends. Choose from popular Easter flowers, including tulips, roses, the classic Easter lily, and more. Easter flower delivery is sure to make them feel truly blessed.
