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Patriot Day

Honor the heroes of 9/11 on Patriot Day - come together to remember and pay tribute to those who lost their lives in service of their country.

Friday

September 2026

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

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YEARLY DATESeptember 11

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Patriot Day on Sept. 11 is a day to remember and honor the lives of those who bravely sacrificed themselves for our country's freedom. It began in 2001, just days after the tragic events of 9/11 to commemorate all those affected by the tragedy, including military personnel and first responders. On this day we can come together as a nation with respect and admiration for those selfless heroes who gave their lives for us.

TIMELINE

Patriot Day Timeline

Terrorist Attacks

On September 11, 2001, four planned terrorist attacks by the Islamist extremist group Al-Qaeda killed nearly 3,000 people in the United States.

Proclamation of Patriot Day

On September 13, 2001, President George W. Bush proclaimed Friday, September 14, 2001, as a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the victims of the terrorist attacks.

Congress Passes Resolution

On September 18, 2001, the United States Congress passed a resolution naming September 11 as Patriot Day.

First Official Patriot Day

On September 11, 2002, the first official Patriot Day was observed throughout the US, including special memorial ceremonies at the three crash sites.

Day of Service and Remembrance

In 2009, Congress designated September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, encouraging citizens to participate in community service out of respect for the 9/11 victims.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Patriot Day

Fly an American Flag

Show your patriotism by flying the Stars and Stripes for Patriot Day. A flag is a symbol of freedom, strength, courage and honor.

ATTEND

Attend a 9/11 Memorial Service

Organizations like the American Red Cross often hold memorials to remember those lost on 9/11. Attend one of these services to pay your respects.

DONATE

Donate to a Charity

Support organizations that are helping people affected by the events of 9/11, such as the 9/11 Memorial Museum or the Twin Towers Orphan Fund.

WRITE

Write Letters of Appreciation

Send letters of appreciation to those who serve in our Armed Forces or to those who were involved in the rescue and recovery efforts after 9/11.

TAKE

Take Time to Reflect

Patriot Day is a day for reflection and remembrance. Take some time out of your day to reflect on the events that happened on September 11th, 2001.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Patriot Day is Important

Patriot Day celebrates bravery and heroism

On Patriot Day, we celebrate brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to protect our country and our way of life. We recognize their courage and strength, and express gratitude for all they've done - both publically and privately - to make America a free nation.

Patriot Day reminds us of our past

Patriot Day helps remind us of our nation’s story and the courage it took to win independence from colonial rule. It gives us all a chance to reflect on the accomplishments of our founding fathers and honor those who have served our country in some way.

Patriot Day honors victims of terror attacks

By designating September 11th as Patriot Day, we are able to honor those who were lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It is a time for Americans to come together in solidarity and remember the lives that were taken by committing acts of kindness and service in their memory.