When Is Mother’s Day—and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Memorize this date, and don't forget to call your mom!
What Is Cinco de Mayo and Why Do We Celebrate It?
The history of Cinco de Mayo dates back to a mid-19th-century battle fought in Mexico. Here's how it evolved into...
What Is Easter and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Here's everything you need to know about what Easter is and how the holiday began.
April Fools’ Day: How Did It Start, and Why Is It April 1?
The origins of the prank-lovers' favorite holiday are murky. In fact, it's possible that the entire concept of April Fools'...
When Is Memorial Day 2022, and Why Do We Celebrate It?
It's not just the unofficial beginning of summer. Read up on this holiday's meaning and history before Memorial Day 2022...
The History Behind 13 Popular Easter Traditions
From coloring eggs to gifting baskets full of candy, here's the history behind your favorite Easter traditions.
Why Are Roses So Popular for Valentine’s Day?
Learn the lore and logistics behind giving roses for Valentine's Day.
Why Is Cupid the Symbol of Valentine’s Day?
Cupid is forever linked to Valentine's Day, but how much do you know about this chubby mythical matchmaker?
100 Things Turning 100 in 2022
It’s a big deal to celebrate such a big number, and we should know, because Reader’s Digest is turning 100...
The Fascinating History Behind These 24 Christmas Symbols
How did decorated trees, cut-out cookies, and stockings by the fireplace come to symbolize Christmas?
What Is Christmas, and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Christmas is America's No. 1 favorite holiday—85% of us celebrate it. Here's how Christmas started and why we have the...
Thanksgiving Turkey Wishbone: Why We Break It and How to Find It
Here's what to know about the timeless Thanksgiving tradition of breaking the turkey wishbone—and how to win this turkey face-off.
The Real History of Thanksgiving
The history of Thanksgiving isn't the rosy story from your childhood. Here's what really happened and the truth about some...
Everything to Know About the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2022
The annual event marks the Thanksgiving holiday and kicks off the Christmas season. Here's when and how to watch it.
When Is Thanksgiving 2022, and Why Do We Celebrate It?
There's a lot more to this popular holiday than handprint turkeys and pumpkin pie. Here's what to know going into...
Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day: 5 Things You Need to Know
President Biden officially proclaimed October 10 Indigenous Peoples' Day, but Columbus Day is not behind us yet. Here's why.
29 Veterans Day Facts Everyone Should Know
Learn the history behind the holiday with these fascinating Veterans Day facts
The History of Jack-o’-Lanterns and How They Became a Halloween Tradition
Why do we carve pumpkins on Halloween? This fun tradition dates way, way back to ancient customs and a spooky...
Why Do We Bob for Apples on Halloween?
Compared to other Halloween traditions and legends, its origins aren't as spooky. Learn more about how bobbing for apples came...
How Many Signatures Are on the Declaration of Independence?
This document contains the signatures of John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin. So exactly how many signatures are there—and...
When Is Pride Month, and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ community or an ally, here’s everything you need to know about Pride Month.
12 Declaration of Independence Facts Every American Should Know
Americans learn about the document in school, but there are some lesser-known facts about the Declaration of Independence that are...
The Meaning Behind 32 LGBTQ Pride Flags
What to know about the colors, symbolism, and history of LGBTQ flags.
What Does LGBTQ Stand For?
LGBTQ is more than just a time-saving abbreviation. The acronym signifies the strength and solidarity of varied but united communities...
15 Moments That Changed Women’s History Forever
In honor of Women's History Month, a look back at the single moments in history when, for women, doors of...
Why Black History Month Is More Important Than Ever
While it's important to celebrate Black culture and contributions, it's equally important to acknowledge how society still oppresses and discriminates...
16 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month
Here are just some of the things to do, read, and see to immerse yourself in the rich history of...
11 “Facts” About the Civil Rights Movement That Aren’t True
Separating fact from fiction isn’t just important from a historical perspective—it’s also essential in winning today’s fight against racial injustice.
18 Facts You Didn’t Know About Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, here are some facts about Black history in America that even history buffs may...
15 Things About Black History Month You Didn’t Learn in School
From the first African American to fly across the country to the first Black presidential candidate, there's a lot you...
15 Martin Luther King Jr. Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
Think you know everything there is to know about the late, great civil rights leader? These Martin Luther King Jr....