Holiday Celebrations Series
On October 22, 1996, the USPS issued its first Hanukkah stamp. The joint issue with Israel also launched the Holiday Celebrations Series, which broadened the Postal Service’s holiday stamp program beyond Christmas.
Holidays
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National Milk Day
National Milk Day, celebrated each year on January 11, honors a simple innovation that changed daily life in America: the first home delivery of milk in glass bottles. On January 11, 1878, milk was delivered to homes in the United States in sealed glass bottles for the first time, marking a major step forward in food safety, convenience, and nutrition. What seems ordinary today was once a breakthrough that helped build the modern dairy industry.
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The Origin of Festivus
On December 23, 1966, Festivus was quietly celebrated for the first time in upstate New York. The O’Keefe family created a tradition that was entirely their own, marking it as a day to honor family, humor, and unconventional celebration. What began as a private family gathering would eventually grow into a cultural phenomenon, blending satire, reflection, and playful rebellion against the commercialization of traditional holidays.
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A Christmas Carol
On December 19, 1843, Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol, a small book that would become one of the most famous holiday stories ever written. Released just days before Christmas, the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly visitors captured the spirit of the season—and the conscience of Victorian England. Though Dickens was already a well-known author, few could have predicted that this short Christmas book would become his most enduring work, shaping how Christmas itself is celebrated and remembered.
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The First Mother’s Day
On May 10, 1908, the first official Mother’s Day celebration was held in Grafton, West Virginia.
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First U.S. Se-Tenant
On November 9, 1964, the US Post Office issued its first se-tenant, which was also America’s third Christmas issue. Today, the USPS issues at least one se-tenant every year.
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Disabled American Veterans
On September 25, 1920, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) was officially established as a national social welfare organization. The organization provides millions of dollars in support for disabled veterans.
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Happy Cinco de Mayo
On May 5, 1862, Mexican forces defeated French invaders at the Battle of Puebla. Commemoration of the event has come to be known as Cinco de Mayo.
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First White House Easter Egg Roll
On April 22, 1878, the White House hosted its first official Easter Egg Roll on Easter Monday. It’s a beloved tradition that has continued to this day.
