National New York Day
National New York Day is a celebration dedicated to honoring the Empire State, New York, which was the 11th state to join the Union. This special day recognizes New York’s rich history, diverse culture, and significant contributions to American society.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 21
- Tagged as: State celebration, Cultural holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalNewYorkDay
- When was it founded?: Recent addition to the National Day Calendar
- Who founded it?: National Day Calendar organization
History of National New York Day
National New York Day was established as part of the National Day Calendar’s initiative to celebrate each state in the order they joined the Union. New York has a fascinating history dating back to its origins as a Dutch colony named New Amsterdam around 1624. The settlement was later renamed New York when it came under English control in 1664, and permanently kept that name after November 1674.
New York City served as both the state capital (until 1789) and the national capital of the United States (from 1785 until 1790) following American independence. George Washington took his oath of office at Federal Hall in New York City as the first President of the United States in 1789.
Timeline
- 1624: Dutch colonists establish a trading post on Manhattan Island
- 1653: New Amsterdam chartered as a city
- 1664: New Amsterdam comes under English control and is renamed New York
- 1776: New York City occupied by British during Revolutionary War
- 1783: Evacuation Day – New York City returns to American control
- 1785: New York becomes the national capital
- 1898: Modern New York City formed by consolidation of five boroughs
Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 21 | Sunday |
| 2026 | September 21 | Monday |
| 2027 | September 21 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | September 21 | Thursday |
| 2029 | September 21 | Friday |
| 2030 | September 21 | Saturday |
Observed in National New York Day
National New York Day is observed with various celebrations throughout the state. People commemorate the day by exploring New York’s landmarks, enjoying its cuisine, learning about its history, and celebrating its cultural contributions. Many take the opportunity to visit iconic locations like Times Square, Central Park, or the Statue of Liberty.
Fun Facts About New York
- New York City is home to the world’s two largest stock exchanges by market capitalization: the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq
- The city has more billionaires, ultra-high net worth individuals, and millionaires than any other city in the world
- Fifth Avenue in NYC is considered the most expensive shopping street in the world
- New York City consists of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island
- The New York metropolitan area has the largest metropolitan economy in the world
Quiz
- When was New York City chartered as a city?
- What was New York City originally called?
- How many boroughs make up New York City?
- When did New York serve as the national capital?
(Answers: 1. 1653, 2. New Amsterdam, 3. Five, 4. 1785-1790)
FAQs
Is National New York Day a federal holiday?
No, National New York Day is not a federal holiday. It’s a commemorative day established by the National Day Calendar.
How is National New York Day different from New York State holidays?
National New York Day is specifically dedicated to celebrating the state’s history and culture, while New York State observes various federal and state holidays throughout the year.
What are some ways to celebrate National New York Day?
You can celebrate by learning about New York’s history, visiting landmarks, enjoying New York-style cuisine, watching movies set in New York, or sharing New York facts on social media with the hashtag #NationalNewYorkDay.
Importance of National New York Day
National New York Day provides an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the significant contributions New York has made to American culture, economy, and history. As a center of finance, arts, media, and immigration, New York has played a pivotal role in shaping the United States. This day encourages both residents and non-residents to explore and celebrate the Empire State’s rich heritage and ongoing influence.
Related
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Evacuation Day (November 25)
- New York State Day
- Empire State Building Day
- NYC Restaurant Week