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Mayflower Day

On Mayflower Day, honor the brave Pilgrims who set sail on a journey of hope and opportunity that would shape American history forever.

Wednesday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 16

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to set sail on a historical journey as we celebrate Mayflower Day on September 16! This day commemorates the voyage of the famous ship, the Mayflower, which brought the Pilgrims to the New World in 1620. The journey was filled with challenges and hardships, but it ultimately led to the establishment of Plymouth Colony and shaped American history as we know it today. So let's take a moment to honor and appreciate this significant event while also reflecting on our own journeys and adventures in life. Happy Mayflower Day!

TIMELINE

Mayflower Day Timeline

Mayflower Sets Sail

On September 16, 1620, the Mayflower departed from Plymouth, England, carrying 102 passengers seeking religious freedom in the New World.

Mayflower's Arrival

In November of the same year, the Mayflower reached Provincetown Harbor where the Mayflower Compact was signed.

First Thanksgiving

Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast of thanks, often regarded as the first Thanksgiving, in the autumn of 1621.

Thanksgiving Becomes a Holiday

President Abraham Lincoln announced that the final Thursday in November would be celebrated as a national day of thanksgiving in honor of the Pilgrims.

Mayflower II Launch

The Mayflower II, a replica of the original Mayflower ship, was launched. It now resides in Plymouth, Massachusetts as a symbol of our nation's beginnings.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Mayflower Day

Take a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts

Mayflower Day commemorates the day the Pilgrims set sail on the Mayflower in 1620. What better way to celebrate than by visiting the historic town of Plymouth, where you can see a replica of the ship and learn about its journey.

HOST

Host a Thanksgiving-themed dinner

The Mayflower may be most famous for bringing the Pilgrims to the New World, but it also carried the first Thanksgiving feast. Celebrate Mayflower Day by hosting a dinner with traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

WATCH

Watch a movie or documentary about the Mayflower

There are many films and documentaries that tell the story of the Mayflower and its passengers. Gather some friends or family and have a movie night to learn more about this important event in American history.

READ

Read a book about the Mayflower

Expand your knowledge about the Mayflower and its journey by reading a book about it. There are many books available for both children and adults, making it a perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy.

CREATE

Create a Mayflower-themed craft

Get creative and make a Mayflower-inspired craft, such as a paper boat or a miniature replica of the ship. This is a fun and hands-on way to celebrate Mayflower Day and learn more about this important piece of history.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Mayflower Day

It promotes gratitude and perseverance

The Pilgrims faced many challenges during their journey to the New World, yet they remained steadfast in their beliefs. Mayflower Day serves as a reminder to be grateful for our blessings and to persevere through difficult times.

It commemorates a pivotal event in American history

Mayflower Day celebrates the arrival of the Pilgrims to the New World and their impact on shaping America. It's a reminder of our roots and how far we have come as a nation.

It brings people together

Mayflower Day is an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share a meal, and reflect on our shared history. It's a chance to strengthen bonds and create new memories with loved ones.

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