Constitution Day: Celebrating the Foundation of Democracy

Constitution Day is a significant observance dedicated to honoring the adoption of the U.S. Constitution, a document that established the framework for the nation’s government and guaranteed fundamental rights to its citizens. It is a time to reflect on the principles of democracy, justice, and liberty enshrined in this historic document.

Quick Facts

• When is it?: Constitution Day is celebrated annually on September 17, marking the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787.
• Tagged as: Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.
• What’s the hashtag?: #ConstitutionDay
• When was it founded?: The modern observance was officially established in 2004.
• Who founded it?: Senator Robert Byrd spearheaded the legislation to designate September 17 as Constitution Day.

History of Constitution Day

The origins of Constitution Day trace back to “I Am an American Day,” which was first celebrated in May 1940 to honor new U.S. citizens. In 1952, Congress moved the observance to September 17 and renamed it “Citizenship Day.” Finally, in 2004, Senator Robert Byrd introduced legislation combining Citizenship Day with Constitution Day, emphasizing education about the Constitution in schools and government institutions.

Timeline

• 1787: The U.S. Constitution was signed on September 17 by 39 delegates at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.
• 1940: “I Am an American Day” was established to recognize new citizens.
• 1952: The day was renamed Citizenship Day and moved to September 17.
• 2004: Constitution Day was officially designated by Congress.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	September 17	Wednesday
2026	September 17	Thursday
2027	September 17	Friday
2028	September 17	Sunday
2029	September 17	Monday
2030	September 17	Tuesday

Observed

Constitution Day is observed with educational programs, historical reenactments, and naturalization ceremonies across the United States. Schools are required to teach students about the significance of the Constitution, while civic organizations host events promoting awareness of constitutional principles.

Fun Facts About Constitution Day

• The U.S. Constitution is the oldest written national constitution still in use.
• It originally consisted of only four pages and has been amended just 27 times since its adoption.
• Benjamin Franklin, at age 81, was the oldest signer of the Constitution.
• Rhode Island was the only state that did not send delegates to the Constitutional Convention.

Quiz

1. What year was the U.S. Constitution signed?

• A) 1776
• B) 1787
• C) 1791
• D) 1801

1. Who is known as the “Father of the Constitution”?

• A) George Washington
• B) Thomas Jefferson
• C) James Madison
• D) Alexander Hamilton

1. How many amendments does the U.S. Constitution currently have?

• A) 10
• B) 27
• C) 33
• D) 50

Answers:

1. B) 1787
2. C) James Madison
3. B) 27

FAQs

1. Why is Constitution Day important?
   It commemorates the signing of a document that established democratic governance and protects individual freedoms.
2. Is Constitution Day a public holiday?
   No, it is not a federal holiday, but it is widely observed with educational activities.
3. What happens if September 17 falls on a weekend?
   Schools and institutions may observe it on an adjacent weekday.

Related

• Bill of Rights Day
• Independence Day
• Citizenship Week
• National Freedom Day