1.   People in every culture celebrate holidays. Although the word «holiday» literally means «holy day,» most American holidays are not religious, but commemorative in nature and origin. As. the nation is blessed with rich ethnic heritage, it is possible to trace some of the American holidays to diverse cultural sources and traditions, but all holidays have taken on a distinctively American flavor.

   Special family days 
   The right to choose
   National spirit traced in different celebrations
   They invent local holidays
   Love for celebrations
   One common event for a national holiday

2. Each of the 50 states has the right to observe Federal holidays according to their legislation. However, the majority of the states usually choose the date or day celebrated by the rest of the nation. Still the closing of local government offices and businesses on these holidays vary. For instance, in Washington State there are five official holidays when people have five days off; however, a company may give their employees three extra days per year to enhance their holiday term.

   Special family days
   The right to choose
   National spirit traced in different celebrations
   They invent local holidays
   Love for celebrations
   One common event for a national holiday

3. One of the most widely celebrated and popular holidays in the USA is Independence Day. What is rather remarkable about it is the splendid colorful parade. Take, for instance, a parade in Seattle, Washington. Different organizations take part in it. First, usually comes the fire brigades in full dress, with polished fire-engines. Girls throw flowers to them. The firemen and women are regarded as heroes, especially in small towns. Then come the police and other state organizations, fund raisers, voluntary bodies, factories, and small businesses proudly showing off their produce.

   Special family days
   The right to choose
   National spirit traced in different celebrations
   They invent local holidays
   Love for celebrations
   One common event for a national holiday. 

4. It is worth mentioning that in the United States, Americans like holidays very much. The word «holiday» for them is synonymous with «celebration». They tend to make some Sundays unique by organizing various festivals and carnivals. On these Sundays you can go to different towns and take part in entertaining events. The main attractions are festivals that welcome in the autumn as the leaves on the trees begin to turn red, orange, and yellow. For example, a festival of wooden boats or classical automobiles, or a wood-chopping contest and an auction are popular activities. 

   Special family days 
   The right to choose
   National spirit traced in different celebrations
   They invent local holidays
   Love for celebrations
   One common event for a national holiday

5. As for family celebrations in the USA, it is worth saying that these holidays are mostly calm and quiet. The most popular family holidays are Thanksgiving Day and Christmas. The extended families gather for these two events. Americans prepare only traditional meals for these holidays. For instance, for Thanksgiving Day there will be a roast turkey with cranberry sauce, white mashed potatoes (which ARE indispensable with turkey). Other sweet potatoes or yams, vegetables and a pumpkin pie.

    Special family days 
   The right to choose
   National spirit traced in different celebrations
   They invent local holidays
   Love for celebrations
   One common event for a national holiday

6.  What is the odd one (лишний)? 

   Special family days 
   The right to choose
   National spirit traced in different celebrations
   They invent local holidays
   Love for celebrations
   One common event for a national holiday

Now press the button "Show the results"

© Abramova E.I., 2015