May 1st – Loyalty Day

May 1, est. 1921

Loyalty Day is a day observed on May 1 in the United States and serves as a day “for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and for the recognition of the heritage of American freedom.” Happy Loyalty Day America!

Loyalty Day, celebrated on May 1, is a special day for people to reaffirm their loyalty to the United States and to recognize the heritage of American Freedom. The United States was founded by patriots who risked their lives to bring our nation freedom. Our founders are remembered on Loyalty Day, a day when people celebrate their freedom while remembering their responsibilities to continue the legacy of liberty. This day is celebrated with parades and ceremonies in several communities across the country.

Loyalty Day was first observed in 1921 as “Americanization Day” to counterbalance the labor movement’s May Day celebrations. On May 1, 1930, about 10,000 Veterans of Foreign War member staged a rally at Union Station in New York to promote patriotism. May 1 later evolved into Loyalty Day through a resolution adopted in 1949. On July 18, 1958, Congress designated May 1 of each year as Loyalty Day to foster loyalty and love of the United States.