A heritage observance on March 17 commemorating the evacuation of British forces from Boston in 1776, marking the Continental Army's first major victory of the American Revolutionary War.
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the
Holiday Calendar Team
Boston Mayor Thomas N. Hart proclaimed the observance in 1901 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of British troops evacuating Boston on March 17, 1776, the first major victory for George Washington's Continental Army. The timing also recognized the city's strong Irish heritage coinciding with St. Patrick's Day.
Celebrate Evacuation Day on March 17 with a bang! This day marks the end of the British occupation of Boston back in 1776, when General George Washington forced them to leave after a long siege. Since then, it's become an important holiday for locals and those who visit each year to commemorate this significant event in American history. So break out your Revolutionary War hats and join us for some good old-fashioned fun as we celebrate Evacuation Day!
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WHY THIS DAY MATTERS
Evacuation Day is an opportunity to come together and celebrate our nation's independence. We can use this day to honor our Founders and remember how far we've come since then. It is also an opportunity to recognize our shared values of democracy, freedom, and justice for all citizens.
Evacuation Day marks the day in 1783 when British troops evacuated New York City after nine years of occupation. This event marked the end of the Revolutionary War and helped solidify the United States' status as a sovereign and independent nation.
On Evacuation Day, we remember those brave men and women who fought and sacrificed their lives for our country's freedom. It is a time to reflect on the great price paid by so many to make sure that future generations would have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
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