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National Freedom Day

Honor the legacy of freedom with National Freedom Day - take a moment to reflect on our past and celebrate the promise of future!

Monday

February 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 1

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYBlack History

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Freedom Day on February 1 and honor the day that President Abraham Lincoln signed a joint resolution of Congress which later became the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery! The day is also important for its recognition of all forms of freedom – both physical and spiritual. It's an opportunity to remember those who fought hard for their rights and appreciate our current freedoms.

TIMELINE

National Freedom Day Timeline

End of Slavery

On February 1, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln endorsed the 13th Amendment to the US Constitution, aiming to abolish slavery.

Major Richard Wright Senior's Initiative

Retired Major Richard Wright Senior, a former slave, voiced the need for a national day to celebrate freedom for all Americans.

First National Freedom Day Celebrated

Major Wright arranged the first National Freedom Day celebration in Philadelphia on February 1, 1942.

Philadelphia Hosts a National Freedom Day Parade

Philadelphia hosted the first National Freedom Day parade, an event that has since become an annual tradition.

National Freedom Day Becomes Law

President Harry Truman signed a bill making National Freedom Day a national observance. The day is not a public holiday, but it is observed around the country with various events and activities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Freedom Day

Fly a flag

Proudly display the American flag or your state's flag to celebrate National Freedom Day. Hang it up in your front yard, balcony or window to show your respect for freedom.

READ

Read up on the history of freedom

Learn more about the history of freedom, from the Thirteen Colonies to the Founding Fathers to present day civil liberties and rights. Pick up a book on the subject and educate yourself and others.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with a civil rights organization

Lend a hand to a civil rights organization that helps protect our nation’s freedoms. Donate money or time, or even take part in a protest or rally.

VISIT

Visit a historical site

Pay tribute to those who fought for our freedom by visiting a place important to U.S. history, such as Independence Hall or Mount Vernon.

THANK

Thank an active military member

Show your appreciation for those who continue to fight for our freedom by thanking an active military member personally or writing them a letter.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Freedom Day is Important

It encourages civic engagement

On National Freedom Day, it's important to recognize not only how far we have come since 1865, but also how essential it is that we stay proactive in protecting civil rights and liberties today. Celebrating this special day should motivate us to become engaged citizens and work for meaningful change in our communities.

It celebrates the 13th amendment

National Freedom Day marks the anniversary of when President Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which formally abolished slavery in the United States. This day serves as a reminder of how far we've come since then and honors all of those who fought for freedom and equality.

It promotes reflection on our progress

As we look back at this historic day, it's important to take a moment to reflect on how far we still have to go. National Freedom Day is a reminder that although much progress has been made towards equality, there are still many issues that need to be addressed in order to ensure justice for all.