
Constitution Day, also known as Citizenship Day, is a federal observance in the United States that commemorates the signing of the US Constitution in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. The day recognizes those who have become US citizens and celebrates the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Constitution Day is observed annually on September 17, with schools and government agencies participating in educational activities and naturalization ceremonies to honor the occasion. The week of September 17-23 is also recognized as Constitution Week, a time to reflect on the importance of the Constitution and the values it embodies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date | 17th of September |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Purpose | Recognizes the adoption of the United States Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens |
| History | On 17th September 1787, the Founding Fathers signed the U.S. Constitution |
| In 1911, Iowa schools first recognized Constitution Day | |
| In 1952, the United States Congress designated 17th September as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day | |
| In 1953, the United States Senate passed a resolution designating 17th-23rd September as Constitution Week | |
| Observance | Schools and government agencies participate in educational activities and naturalization ceremonies |
| Federal courts offer educational resources and experiences in their communities |
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Constitution Day is celebrated annually on 17 September
Constitution Day is also referred to as Citizenship Day, as it recognises not only the adoption of the US Constitution but also those who have become US citizens. Naturalization ceremonies are often held on this day, bringing together communities, schools, and new citizens in federal courthouses or other community sites. Schools and government agencies are required to observe Constitution Day, with many offering educational resources and activities to promote civic literacy and engagement.
The week of 17 September is also recognised as Constitution Week in the United States, continuing through to 23 September. During this time, Americans are encouraged to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and what it means to be a US citizen. Constitution Week was established in August 1953 when the US Senate passed a resolution designating 17–23 September as a time to honour the Constitution.
Constitution Day provides an opportunity for Americans to celebrate their nation's history and founding principles. Local events, parades, and demonstrations are held across the country, and Americans are encouraged to attend and participate in activities that showcase their love for the United States and the freedoms secured by the Founding Fathers.
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Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the US Constitution
Constitution Day, or Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, is an annual commemoration of the signing of the US Constitution. It is observed on September 17, the day in 1787 that delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia. The day also recognises those who have become US citizens.
The day was designated by the United States Congress on February 29, 1952, by joint resolution (36 U.S.C. 106). It begins Constitution Week, which continues through September 23. Constitution Week includes the day before and after September 17 as well. Constitution Day has been celebrated in various ways over the years, including with parades, demonstrations, activities, and learning. Schools and government agencies are required to join in the observance, with many schools teaching about the Constitution and offering educational resources and experiences to students. Federal courts also participate by offering educational resources and experiences in their communities.
Naturalization ceremonies are often held on Constitution Day, bringing together communities, schools, and new citizens in federal courthouses and other community sites. These ceremonies have been a tradition for over 30 years. In addition, there are often classroom visits, which can be virtual or in person, and resources available for teachers and students to learn more about the US Constitution and its history.
Constitution Day is an important day in the history of the United States, recognising the adoption of the Constitution and the rights and responsibilities of US citizens. It is a day to reflect on the foundations of the nation and the importance of civic engagement and literacy.
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Constitution Day is also Citizenship Day
Constitution Day, celebrated on September 17, commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. This day also marks Citizenship Day, recognising those who have become U.S. citizens and encouraging Americans to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day is an American federal observance that recognises the adoption of the United States Constitution and pays tribute to those who have attained citizenship through birth or naturalisation. The day celebrates the founding of the nation and the rights and freedoms it upholds. It is a time for Americans to come together and honour the principles that form the basis of their country.
The day is observed with educational initiatives, naturalisation ceremonies, and community events. Schools and government agencies are required to teach about the Constitution, often in collaboration with federal courts. The Civics for All of US program, for instance, promotes civic literacy and engagement through interactive distance learning programs for teachers and students. Other resources include webinars, workshops, and teaching tools such as downloadable portraits and flashcards of famous Americans.
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day also witness naturalisation ceremonies, where new citizens take the oath of allegiance. These ceremonies are often held in significant locations like the National Archives Rotunda in Washington, DC, or federal courthouses, bringing together communities, schools, and new citizens.
The observance of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day falls on September 17 or an adjacent weekday if the date falls on a weekend or holiday. The week of September 17-23 is also recognised as Constitution Week, with educational institutions and federal agencies providing programming on the history of the Constitution and citizenship.
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Constitution Day is a federal observance
Constitution Day, also known as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, is an American federal observance that commemorates the adoption of the United States Constitution and recognises those who have become US citizens. It is observed annually on September 17, the day the Founding Fathers signed the US Constitution in 1787. The day also marks the beginning of Constitution Week, which continues through September 23.
The observance of Constitution Day includes educational programs, family activities, and online resources to promote civic literacy and engagement. Schools and government agencies are required to participate by offering educational resources and experiences in their communities. Many schools teach about the Constitution and its significance, often in collaboration with their local federal court. Constitution Day is also an opportunity for naturalization ceremonies, where new citizens take the oath of allegiance, bringing together communities, schools, and citizens in federal courthouses or other community sites.
The history of Constitution Day dates back to 1911 when Iowa schools first recognised it. In 1917, a committee was formed by the Sons of the American Revolution to promote the day, which included notable members such as Calvin Coolidge and John D. Rockefeller. In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt approved a joint resolution designating the third Sunday in May as Citizenship Day. However, it was not until 1952 that Congress officially designated September 17 as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day by joint resolution.
Constitution Day is a significant observance in the United States, providing an opportunity for Americans to reflect on their rights and responsibilities as citizens and to honour the founding principles of their nation. It is a day to celebrate the US Constitution, which has served as the supreme law of the land for over 200 years, and to recognise the importance of civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.
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Constitution Day is marked by parades and educational activities
Constitution Day, also known as Citizenship Day, is an annual American federal observance that commemorates the signing of the US Constitution in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. The day is marked by parades and educational activities that promote civic engagement and reflection on the rights and responsibilities of US citizenship.
Constitution Day is observed on September 17, the anniversary of the signing of the US Constitution. The day is designated to honour the thirty-nine Founding Fathers who signed the document, recognising all those who are born in the US or have become citizens through naturalisation. Schools, government agencies, and federal courts participate in the observance of Constitution Day by offering educational resources, activities, and experiences for students and the wider community.
One tradition of Constitution Day is for students of all ages to participate in naturalisation ceremonies, presided over by federal judges in their communities. These ceremonies bring together schools, new citizens, and the community to celebrate and reflect on the rights and responsibilities of US citizenship. Many schools are required to teach about the Constitution on Constitution Day, with educational activities such as classroom visits, virtual or in-person, and civil discourse exercises.
Constitution Day is also marked by parades and demonstrations of patriotism and love for the United States of America. Local communities organise events, activities, meetings, and programs to commemorate the day. Constitution Week is also recognised from September 17-23, with educational institutions and federal agencies providing programming on the history of the Constitution and citizenship.
Constitution Day has a long history, with Iowa schools first recognising it in 1911. In 1952, the United States Congress officially designated September 17 as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, and it has been celebrated annually since then. The day provides an opportunity for Americans to celebrate their nation's history, honour the Founding Fathers, and reflect on the rights and responsibilities that come with US citizenship.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Constitution Day is celebrated in the US on 17 September.
Constitution Day, also known as Citizenship Day, is a federal observance that recognises the adoption of the US Constitution and those who have become US citizens.
Constitution Day was first observed in 1911 by schools in Iowa. However, the holiday was originally known as 'I Am an American Day' and was celebrated on the third Sunday in May. The current date of 17 September was designated as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day by the United States Congress on 29 February 1952.
Constitution Day is celebrated with activities, learning, parades, and demonstrations of patriotism. Schools are required to teach about the Constitution, and naturalization ceremonies are held in federal courthouses and other community sites.
Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the US Constitution in Philadelphia on 17 September 1787. It recognises the rights and responsibilities of US citizenship and encourages Americans to reflect on the importance of the Constitution in their country's history.

























